A study conducted between March 2022 and June 2023 has revealed the presence of blood-borne parasites among wild lizards in Pakistan, highlighting the need for more extensive research on the country’s reptilian fauna. The research, published recently, identifies the molecular epidemiology and phylogenetic evaluation of several blood pathogens, including Hepatozoon sp. and Lankesterella sp., among 84 lizards trapped from the districts of Karak and Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
This investigation, which is the first of its kind for the region, assessed the health of wild lizards by analyzing blood samples for various pathogens. The researchers identified seven different lizard species, with 11 out of the 84 lizards, or approximately 13%, testing positive for Haemogregarines, which are protozoan blood parasites—a noteworthy rate considering the lack of previous studies highlighting such infections.
The infected lizard species included Laudakia tuberculata, with its prevalence calculated at 25%, pointing to the species as particularly vulnerable to these infections. Notably, the study found no traces of other common pathogens like Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium spp., and Haemoproteus spp. among the lizards analyzed, indicating a specific focus of the study on Hepatozoon and Lankesterella.
Researchers used advanced DNA sequencing techniques to confirm the presence of the pathogens. Analysis demonstrated significant genetic diversity among the isolates from Pakistani lizards, corresponding with similar parasites found across reptiles, birds, and rodents worldwide. This genetic clustering suggests interaction among different species and highlights the complex ecology of parasites.
Dr. Shabbir, the leading author of this study, noted, "A comprehensive evaluation of the genetic diversity and the interaction of these parasites with their hosts is necessary for developing effective control measures." The research emphasizes the existing threats posed by blood-borne pathogens, which not only affect lizard populations directly but could also influence broader ecological health.
The study's methodology involved trapping lizards using glue traps, with care taken to document various ecological factors related to each individual, including body size and the presence of ectoparasites. The research team employed molecular diagnostics, particularly PCR, to detect the specific pathogens present.
Prevalence rates of infections varied significantly by location, showing high infection rates at certain sampling sites. The authors pointed out the necessity for more extensive studies across different geographic regions of Pakistan to fully understand the parasitic presence among local wildlife.
The findings have stirred considerable interest among biologists and conservationists alike, as they shine light on the hidden health risks faced by lizards—a group already experiencing global declines due to factors like climate change and habitat loss. The study not only reveals the current state of lizard health but also serves as a call to action for conservation strategies focused on protecting these remarkable reptiles.
To reinforce the importance of this research, the authors conclude, "Further investigation is required to evaluate the full impact of these findings on the lizard population and the broader ecosystem. Our study opens new avenues for exploring wildlife health and the interactions between parasites and their hosts within this under-studied region of the world." This investigation marks the start of what could be significant advancements in our knowledge of lizard health and the impact of parasites on ecological health.
With findings now available to the public through the GenBank repository, scientists worldwide can utilize this data as part of their continued efforts to understand the diversity and distribution of pathogens affecting reptilian populations globally.