Insight into tick and flea species infesting the North African Hedgehog in Tunisia.

Hedgehogs are small wild mammals known to host various ectoparasites, including hard ticks and fleas, which can transmit vector-borne pathogens to humans and animals. We investigated the ectoparasites infesting 10 hedgehogs () captured in northern Tunisia and found both ticks and fleas. Ectoparasite species were identified based on their morphological characteristics as well as using molecular methods via the partial amplification of the 16 S rRNA, the mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I, and the 18 S rRNA genes. Four tick species were identified: , followed by , , and . Molecular analysis confirmed the presence of the subspecies , with phylogenetic clustering suggesting a genetic relationship with tick populations in Algeria, Turkey, and China. Two additional flea species were identified: , the hedgehog flea, and , the cat flea, both known to be vectors of pathogens. We confirmed that hedgehogs were infested with , with the obtained sequences clustering closely with those previously reported in Spain. This genetic similarity may suggest a shared origin and indicate a wider geographic distribution for this subspecies. Our study underscores the importance of understanding the interactions between hedgehogs, ectoparasites, and their environments. Our findings may inform public health strategies and wildlife management, aiming to control ectoparasite populations and reduce the risk of the emergence of zoonotic diseases.