Mongabay · Natuur

Parasitic Infections Pose Silent Threat to Bengal Tigers, Study Warns

Researchers are raising concerns about the impact of parasitic infections on the critically endangered Bengal tiger population in South Asia. While not a direct threat to healthy adults, these infections can act as silent killers, particularly for weakened tigers and cubs, exacerbated by human encroachment into their habitats.

A study analyzing fecal samples from wildlife in Bangladesh's Sundarbans mangrove forest revealed the highest parasite infection rate, 85.3%, in Bengal tigers. Other affected species included rhesus monkeys, deer, and wild pigs. Predominant parasites identified were roundworms, tapeworms, and liver flukes.

Researchers suggest that human settlements near tiger habitats increase the risk of parasite transmission between wild and domestic animals. Proximity of households to the forest and shared environments facilitate the spread of pathogens. Similar findings were noted in studies from India and Nepal, highlighting increased zoonotic risks.

Parasitic infections can lead to chronic malnutrition, reduced fitness, and reproductive issues in tigers. Weakened tigers may resort to preying on livestock, escalating human-tiger conflict. Cubs are particularly vulnerable, with infections potentially proving fatal before their immune systems fully develop.

Experts recommend integrated, long-term wildlife disease prevention strategies, including reducing human-wildlife contact and managing livestock buffers around tiger reserves. Measures like parasite control in domestic animals, de-worming of staff, and maintaining healthy prey populations are also advised to bolster tiger immunity and reduce transmission chains.

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