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01-12-2017 | Original Contribution

Interactions Between Carnivores in Madagascar and the Risk of Disease Transmission

Authors: Fidisoa Rasambainarivo, Zach J. Farris, Hertz Andrianalizah, Patricia G. Parker

Published in: EcoHealth | Issue 4/2017

Abstract

Introduced carnivores exert considerable pressure on native predators through predation, competition and disease transmission. Recent research shows that exotic carnivores negatively affect the distribution and abundance of the native and endangered carnivores of Madagascar. In this study, we provide information about the frequency and distribution of interactions between exotic (dogs and cats) and native carnivores (Eupleridae) in the Betampona Natural Reserve (BNR), Madagascar, using noninvasive camera trap surveys. Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) were the most frequently detected carnivore species within the BNR, and we found that indirect interactions between exotic and native carnivores were frequent (n = 236). Indirect interactions were more likely to occur near the research station (incidence rate ratio = 0.91), which may constitute a disease transmission hot spot for carnivores at BNR. The intervals between capture of native and exotic carnivores suggest that there is potential for pathogen transmission between species in BNR. These capture intervals were significantly shorter near the edge of the reserve (P = 0.04). These data could be used to implement biosecurity measures to monitor interactions and prevent disease transmission between species at the domestic animal and wildlife interface.

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Title: Interactions Between Carnivores in Madagascar and the Risk of Disease Transmission
Authors: Fidisoa Rasambainarivo
Zach J. Farris
Hertz Andrianalizah
Patricia G. Parker
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: EcoHealth / Issue 4/2017
Print ISSN: 1612-9202
Electronic ISSN: 1612-9210
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10393-017-1280-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Interactions Between Carnivores in Madagascar and the Risk of Disease Transmission

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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