Three new species of Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Amami rabbit, Pentalagus furnessi (Mammalia: Leporidae)

Researchers have identified three new species of Eimeria parasites, Eimeria furnessi n. sp., Eimeria hilleri n. sp., and Eimeria sagentae n. sp., in fecal samples from wild Amami rabbits (Pentalagus furnessi) on Amami-Oshima and Tokunoshima Islands, Japan. These species are distinguished by oocyst size, shape, and color, with prevalence rates of 58.3%, 25.0%, and 36.1% respectively. The discovery contributes to understanding the parasitic load in this endangered lagomorph, potentially informing conservation efforts and breeding programs. Further studies on pathogenicity could enhance captive propagation strategies for the Amami rabbit.

Tokiwa, T., Chou, S., Kitazoe, H., Ito, K., Torimoto, R., Shoshi, Y., Sanjoba, C., Yamamoto, M., & Yoshimura, H. (2022). Three new species of Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Amami rabbit, Pentalagus furnessi (Mammalia: Leporidae). International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife, 18, 194–200. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.05.006