Prevalence and characterization of gastrointestinal and ectoparasites in long-tailed macaques () from ecotourism regions of Aceh, Indonesia.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Long-tailed macaques () serve as critical sentinels for zoonotic disease surveillance due to their ecological proximity to human populations. Understanding their parasitic burden is vital for conservation and public health, particularly in ecotourism areas where human-primate interactions are frequent. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, diversity, and morphological characteristics of gastrointestinal (GI) and ectoparasites in across four natural habitats in Aceh Province, Indonesia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 100 fecal samples were collected from wild macaques at four sites: Pulau Weh Sabang Nature Tourism Park, Kuala Langsa Mangrove Forest, Saree (Aceh Besar), and Aceh Jaya. The parasitological examination involved the centrifugation method, lactophenol staining, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Parasites were identified based on egg morphology and adult worm anatomy.

RESULTS

Of the 100 samples analyzed, 45% tested positive for GI parasites. Nematode prevalence was highest (80%), followed by protozoa (10%) and ectoparasites (10%). Identified nematodes included spp. (70%), spp. (50%), spp. (40%), spp. (30%), spp. (20%), and spp. (10%). Protozoan ( spp.) and ectoparasitic ( spp.) infections were less common. Mixed infections were more frequent (70%) than single infections (30%). Adult worms examined through SEM and lactophenol staining were confirmed to be two nematode species: () and , both with zoonotic potential.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of nematodes, particularly zoonotic species, underscores the importance of monitoring parasitic infections in residing in tourist-exposed areas. This study highlights the utility of combining traditional and advanced diagnostic techniques to enhance parasite surveillance. Integrating health assessments of wild primate populations into conservation programs is recommended to mitigate zoonotic risk and support One Health objectives.