Argasid ticks include vectors of relapsing fevers caused by Borrelia spp. in humans, and they can transmit arboviruses and other bacterial pathogens. Knowledge about soft ticks (Ixodida: Argasidae) in Algeria is incomplete, and distribution data need to be updated. Here we report a series of entomologic investigations that we conducted in five different areas in Algeria between 2012 and 2015. Ticks were identified by entomologic keys and molecular tools (16S rRNA gene). Six distinct species belonging to two genera were identified, including Ornithodoros capensis s.s., Ornithodoros rupestris, Ornithodoros occidentalis, Ornithodoros erraticus, Ornithodoros sonrai and Argas persicus. The present study highlights the distribution of soft ticks, the establishment of an update inventory with nine species and associated pathogens detected in argasid ticks in Algeria.

This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasites in camels (Camelus dromaderius) in the Laghouat region (southern Algeria). The study was carried out over a 5-month period on a total of 100 dromedaries. Dung samples were analysed using different methods such as flotation, sedimentation, and Ziehel-Neelsen staining for research of the cryptosporidiosis. Data showed an overall infestation rate of 78%, with the presence of the following parasites: Cryptosporidium sp. (60%), Nematodes: Nematodirussp (23%), Strongyloides sp. (4%), Marshallagia sp. (2%), and Cooperiasp (3%), different protozoaires: Eimeria sp. (20%), Neobalantidium sp. (2%), and Balantidium coli, cestodes (6%), Moniezia sp. (3%), Multicips sp. (2%), Diphillobothrium sp. (1%), and trematodes: Fasciola hépatica (4%) and Paramphistomum sp (1%). The results showed a significant influence of study site on the parasitic infestation rate (P=0.039). Other factors (sex, age and clinical aspect) had no significant influence. To conclude, gastrointestinal parasites are a major problem of indigenous camels under traditional husbandry. Therefore, parasite control programmes are recommended to increase the productivity of this useful animal.

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