Distribution of Thelastomatoid Nematodes (Nematoda: Oxyurida) in Endemic and Introduced Cockroaches on the Galápagos Island Archipelago, Ecuador

A survey of thelastomatoid pinworm fauna in endemic and introduced cockroach species on the Galápagos Islands revealed eight distinct pinworm species, with low prevalence rates across seven islands. The study identified five new host records for Cephalobellus ovumglutinosus, including in endemic cockroaches like Chorisoneura carpenteri and Ischnoptera snodgrassii. While some introduced pinworm species were found in endemic hosts, others globally widespread species were absent. The research suggests a complex distribution pattern influenced by invasive host introductions, with Santa Cruz Island hosting the greatest diversity of pinworms. This first-of-its-kind survey in the region provides insights into invertebrate dispersal and speciation in an evolutionary-rich ecosystem.

Sinnott, D., Carreno, R. A., & Herrera, H. (2015). Distribution of Thelastomatoid Nematodes (Nematoda: Oxyurida) in Endemic and Introduced Cockroaches on the Galápagos Island Archipelago, Ecuador. Journal of Parasitology, 101(4), 445–457. https://doi.org/10.1645/15-721.1