Seasonal dynamics and potential interactions of haematophagous abomasal nematodes in two chamois populations in the Czech Republic.

BACKGROUND

Pathogenic blood-feeding nematodes, such as Haemonchus contortus and the invasive Ashworthius sidemi, infect a wide range of wild and domestic ruminants. While the spread of A. sidemi among European cervids has been studied, its presence in chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) remains poorly documented. Conversely, H. contortus is known to infect chamois, but previous research has relied mainly on cross-sectional necropsy studies, offering only a limited view of infection dynamics. In this study, we used a longitudinal molecular approach to assess the seasonal occurrence and transmission patterns of H. contortus and A. sidemi in a chamois population from the northern Czech Republic. From January to December 2023, we collected faecal samples at monthly intervals from two localities. Multiplex real-time PCR was subsequently used for the detection and semi-quantification of DNA from both nematode species.

RESULTS

Haemonchus contortus DNA was detected in 43.3% of samples, with its presence recorded nearly year-round. Its prevalence and relative DNA quantity peaked in summer and remained high throughout autumn. Ashworthius sidemi was identified in chamois in the Czech Republic for the first time, possibly reflecting a recent spillover from red deer (Cervus elaphus). However, it was found in only 5% of samples, with its occurrence restricted to late winter and spring. The seasonal disappearance of A. sidemi coincided with the increase in H. contortus relative DNA quantity, which may indicate a possible negative interaction between these species occupying the same ecological niche.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a potentialy prolonged transmission window for H. contortus, which could lengthen further under future climate change scenarios. In contrast, A. sidemi appears to be an incidental parasite in chamois, and its long-term persistence in this atypical host without continued contact with cervids remains uncertain. These insights, which are rare for wild ruminants, contribute to a better understanding of parasite epidemiology and host-parasite interactions in free-living populations.