open access

Submitted: 2025-09-18
Animal Production and Health
Published: 2025-12-17

Prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in primates at the JACK Sanctuary, Democratic Republic of Congo

Department of Biology, Systematics and Wildlife, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Department of Biology, Systematics and Wildlife, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Department of Biology, Systematics and Wildlife, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Department of Parasitology and Tropical Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Department of Biology, Systematics and Wildlife, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo

Abstract

This study was conducted from April to July 2024 at the JACK Sanctuary in Lubumbashi (DRC), to determine the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites among resident primates. A total of 150 fecal samples were collected from a population of 241 primates (45 chimpanzees and 196 other primates of different species). Coprological analyses, performed using direct examination and flotation techniques, revealed the presence of five parasite species: Balantidium coli: 26/150 (17.3%), Strongyloides stercoralis: 16/150 (10.7%), Trichuris trichiura: 8/150 (5.3%), Ascaris lumbricoides: 3/150 (2.0%), and Capillaria hepatica: 1/150 (0.67%). The results highlight a higher prevalence of protozoa compared to nematodes, underscoring the need to strengthen hygiene measures, implement regular veterinary monitoring, and adopt rational antiparasitic use to limit transmission and prevent resistance.

Keywords: Primates, gastrointestinal parasites, prevalence, JACK Sanctuary, Democratic Republic of Congo