Habitat type influences parasite load in Algerian Psammodromus lizards (Psammodromus algirus)

Understanding how habitat type and deterioration may affect parasitism is important to assess human-induced environmental change effects on host-parasite dynamics. In this study, we examined inter-population differences in parasites load in a Mediterranean lizard, Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758). We analyzed prevalence and intensity of infection by blood parasites and ectoparasites in two populations separated by a 400-m elevational gradient and with different habitat types that also differed in the degree of human alteration. We also compared data obtained in the same populations after ten years lapsed to assess whether there have been temporary changes in parasites load. Results showed that prevalence and intensity of blood parasites were higher in the deteriorated lowland holm oak forest population than in the well preserved upland oak forest. In contrast, the prevalence and intensity of infection by Ixodes ticks was higher in the upland oak forest population. Individuals from the lowland population were in poorer condition. Intensities of infection by blood parasites and ectoparasites have decreased significantly from 2005-2006 to 2016 in both populations. Our results suggest that inter-population differences in parasite load may be explained by differences in habitat characteristics. This study contributes to identify which ecosystems and habitats are most sensitive to prevalence and intensity of infection by parasites.The accepted manuscript in pdf format is listed with the files at the bottom of this page. The presentation of the authors' names and (or) special characters in the title of the manuscript may differ slightly between what is listed on this page and what is listed in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript; that in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript is what was submitted by the author