Seasonal dynamics and potential interactions of haematophagous abomasal nematodes in two chamois populations in the Czech Republic
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Background
Pathogenic blood-feeding nematodes, such as Haemonchus contortus and the invasive Ashworthius sidemi , infect a wide range of wild and domestic ruminants. While the spread of A. sidemi among European cervids has been studied, its presence in chamois ( Rupicapra rupicapra ) remains poorly documented. Conversely, H. contortus is known to infect chamois, but previous research has relied mainly on cross-sectional necropsy studies, offering only a limited view of infection dynamics. In this study, we used a longitudinal molecular approach to assess the seasonal occurrence and transmission patterns of H. contortus and A. sidemi in a chamois population from the northern Czech Republic. From January to December 2023, we collected faecal samples at monthly intervals from two localities. Multiplex real-time PCR was subsequently used for the detection and semi-quantification of DNA from both nematode species.
Results
Haemonchus contortus DNA was detected in 43.3% of samples, with its presence recorded nearly year-round. Its prevalence and relative DNA quantity peaked in summer and remained high throughout autumn. Ashworthius sidemi was identified in chamois in the Czech Republic for the first time, possibly reflecting a recent spillover from red deer ( Cervus elaphus ). However, it was found in only 5% of samples, with its occurrence restricted to late winter and spring. The seasonal disappearance of A. sidemi coincided with the increase in H. contortus relative DNA quantity, which may indicate a possible negative interaction between these species occupying the same ecological niche.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest a potentialy prolonged transmission window for H. contortus , which could lengthen further under future climate change scenarios. In contrast, A. sidemi appears to be an incidental parasite in chamois, and its long-term persistence in this atypical host without continued contact with cervids remains uncertain. These insights, which are rare for wild ruminants, contribute to a better understanding of parasite epidemiology and host-parasite interactions in free-living populations.
