Vector borne diseases in Malagasy Wildlife

Vector-borne diseases such as malaria and tick-borne pathogens pose a significant threat to wildlife populations worldwide.

Malaria can have significant impacts on humans and animals including wildlife such as primates, rodents and birds. Infected animals may experience reduced fitness, including decreased survival rates, reproductive success, and overall health. Malaria can also influence population dynamics, affecting the abundance, distribution, and behavior of infected species. The disease can impact endangered or vulnerable species, contributing to population declines and jeopardizing biodiversity.

Tick-borne diseases in wildlife may also have both ecological and conservation implications. They can have detrimental effects on individual animals, leading to decreased reproductive success, impaired immune function, and even mortality. Additionally, these diseases can influence population dynamics, disrupt food webs, and alter species interactions within ecosystems.

Monitoring and managing vector borne diseases in wildlife can help maintain the health and resilience of ecosystems and promote the conservation of vulnerable species and public health. Our Research on wildlife vector-borne diseases in Madagascar encompasses various aspects, including studying the diversity of pathogens, investigating transmission dynamics, and exploring the ecological factors that influence disease occurrence.