Patterns of distributional congruence of rodent ectoparasites in Iran: A first approach

Rodents represent the most diverse mammalian group and are considered important hosts for different groups of parasites serving as vectors for some zoonotic agents. Although there have been numerous studies conducted on occurrence records of ectoparasites on rodents, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding the biogeographical patterns of ectoparasites on this group of small mammals. In this study, a quantitative approach was employed to identify patterns of distributional congruence (PDCs) of ectoparasites of rodents in Iran. A total of 121 occurrence records for 37 species of ectoparasites (ticks, mites, lice and fleas) in Iran were analysed using endemicity analysis NDM/VNDM. Twelve consensus areas, characterised by 30 species, were found which were grouped into three PDCs. The PDCs showed that the highest endemicity values were primarily linked to the Zagros Mountains and central Persian areas. The patterns as a whole showed a clear tendency of the Zagros Mountains, forest steppe and central Persian desert basins ecoregions to provide possible areas of endemism. The current study extends the knowledge on the distribution patterns of four main groups of ectoparasites in association with rodent species in Iran and emphasises the significance of endemic zones in controlling management of reservoirs and vectors and conservation efforts.