Parasite abundance and diversity in mammals: correlates with host ecology

Abstract

Fecally dispersed parasites of 12 wild mammal species in Mudumalai Sanctuary, southern India, were studied. Fecal propagule densities and parasite diversity measures were correlated with host ecological variables. Host species with higher predatory pressure had lower parasite loads and parasite diversity. Host body weight, home range, population density, gregariousness, and diet did not show predicted effects on parasite loads. Measures of α diversity were positively correlated with parasite abundance and were negatively correlated with β diversity. Based on these data, hypotheses regarding determinants of parasite community are discussed.