First Description of a Novel Parasite of the Genus <i>Demodex</i> in a Rat in Queensland, Australia

Abstract

Four species of Demodex mite have to date been reported as affecting the brown rat. This paper describes the fi nding of a possible fi fth species. A pet rat was referred to a dermatology referral service in Queensland, Australia for evaluation of pruritus. Skin scrapings revealed the presence of numerous mites with the characteristic appearance of the genus Demodex, but with a truncated opisthosoma. Acaracidal treatment resulted in apparent clearance of the mites, but did not result in resolution of the pruritus.