First Molecular Characterization of Linguatula recurvata (Pentastomida) and First Record in Baird's Tapir (Tapirus bairdii) from Calakmul, Mexico

Researchers report the first molecular characterization of Linguatula recurvata (Pentastomida) and its record as a parasite in Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) from Calakmul, Mexico. The discovery highlights a rare host-parasite interaction, with nymphs found in the liver, mesentery, and small intestine of an adult male tapir. This is only the second documented case of pentastomid parasitism in tapirs. The study used morphological and molecular analyses, including mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequencing, to confirm the species identification. These findings contribute to understanding the parasitic dynamics in tropical ecosystems and the conservation biology of endangered species like Baird's tapir.

Pérez-Flores, J., Lagunas-Calvo, O., González-Solís, D., & Oceguera-Figueroa, A. (2019). First Molecular Characterization of Linguatula recurvata (Pentastomida) and First Record in Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii) from Calakmul, Mexico. Comparative Parasitology, 86(2), 135. https://doi.org/10.1654/1525-2647-86.2.135