Invasive hematophagous arthropods and associated diseases in a changing world

Tick-borne pathogens from ruminant ticks in a Mediterranean ecosystem from Eastern Spain

Vector-borne diseases represent various sicknesses that are increasingly significant in human and veterinary health. Among the zoonotic agents transmitted by ticks, infections caused by the intracellular pathogens from the Anaplasmataceae family and piroplasmids (Babesia/Theileria spp.) are particularly notable due to the substantial economic losses they cause in the livestock sector. A study was carried out to assess the prevalence of these pathogens in ticks from ruminants in the province of Valencia (Eastern Iberian Peninsula). Between 2019 and 2022, 1674 ticks were collected from 163 domestic and wild ruminants. The tick species were identified using molecular and morphological features and included Rhipicephalus spp. (Rhipicephalus bursa and Rhipicephalus sanguineus) (88.7%), Haemaphysalis sulcata (5.9%), Ixodes ricinus (3.6%) and Dermacentor marginatum (1.2%). The Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) was found to be at greater risk of infestation by Haemaphysalis compared to other ruminants. Polimerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis was performed on 108 individual ticks from different hosts, with 16.7% testing positive for members of the Anaplasmataceae family and 39.8% for Theileria spp. Sequencing of 10 positive samples from each pathogen group revealed the presence of Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia spp., Theileria ovis and Theileria capreoli. No Anaplasma phagocytophilum or Babesia spp. were detected. Further research is essential for improved management of ticks and the diseases they transmit in the study area.

Mosquito-Based Detection of Endogenous Jaagsiekte Sheep Retrovirus in Senegal: Expanding the Scope of Xenosurveillance

Background

Mosquitoes are well-known vectors for arthropod-borne viruses, yet their role as passive carriers of non-arthropod-borne viruses remains underexplored. Xenosurveillance, a method that utilizes blood-feeding arthropods to sample host and pathogen genetic material, has emerged as a valuable tool in viral ecology. In this study, we report the first identification of Jaagsiekte Sheep Retrovirus (JSRV)-related sequences in blood-fed mosquitoes collected in Senegal. JSRV, a betaretrovirus responsible for ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma, is typically found in sheep, but its genetic trace in mosquitoes offers a novel perspective on host-vector contact and surveillance. Our study aimed to investigate whether mosquitoes can serve as sentinels for detecting both pathogens and host-derived markers in complex ecosystems.

Methods

Mosquitoes were collected between 2016 and 2019 from three ecologically significant regions in Senegal (Louga, Barkedji, and Kedougou). Blood-fed mosquitoes were pooled and subjected to RNA extraction and metagenomic sequencing using Illumina NextSeq550. Sequencing data were analyzed with CZ-ID and BLAST for viral identification. RT-qPCR assays were designed to validate the presence of JSRV-related sequences, targeting conserved regions of the envelope gene and 3' untranslated region. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using MAFFT and IQ-TREE to compare the detected sequence with global exogenous and endogenous JSRV references.

Results

A diverse array of viruses across mosquito species, including both arboviruses and non-arthropod-borne viruses. A JSRV-related sequence was detected in a single blood-fed mosquito pool collected in Barkedji (2019). The RT-qPCR assay confirmed JSRV presence, validating the sequencing results. Phylogenetic analysis revealed strong similarity to known endogenous JSRV (enJSRV) sequences integrated in the sheep genome, indicating that the detected material likely originated from host DNA ingested during blood feeding.

Discussion

This study presents the first report of endogenous retroviral sequences detected in mosquitoes, alongside the identification of actively circulating viruses, highlighting the broader potential of mosquitoes as environmental sentinels. While mosquitoes are not biological vectors for JSRV, their ability to capture both host-derived retroviral material and pathogenic viral genomes through bloodmeals reinforces the value of xenosurveillance for monitoring livestock-vector-environment interactions. These findings contribute to broader efforts in integrated disease surveillance and underscore the utility of combining metagenomics with molecular diagnostics to detect diverse viral signals in high-risk ecological settings.

Discovery of the potentially invasive Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann (Acari: Ixodidae) in Türkiye: an unexpected finding through citizen science

The Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann, is a species commonly found in Central Asia, East Asia, and Australia, but it has recently emerged in the USA as a significant disease threat. The tick exhibits a fascinating biological trait, as certain populations are capable of reproducing both sexually and asexually via parthenogenesis. As a result, a single asexual female has the potential to initiate the establishment of a new population when introduced into a novel geographical region. Haemaphysalis longicornis is of considerable medical and veterinary importance, being associated with more than 30 human pathogens, including Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Coxiella, Rickettsia, Theileria, and others. It is also a competent vector for the severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (Bunyaviridae, Phlebovirus) in Eastern Asia. The tick can also cause heavy infestations in cattle and transmit the hemoprotozoan parasite Theileria orientalis genotype Ikeda, resulting in significant economic losses within the cattle industry. In the present study, we report the morphological and molecular identification of H. longicornis in the European part of Türkiye. Additionally, we offer hypotheses regarding how H. longicornis ticks may have arrived in Türkiye, potential risks, and the necessary precautions that should be taken.

Parallels and discrepancies between non-native species introductions and human migration

Biological invasions and human migrations have increased globally due to socio-economic drivers and environmental factors that have enhanced cultural, economic, and geographic connectivity. Both processes involve the movement, establishment, and spread of species, yet unfold within fundamentally different philosophical, social and biological contexts. Hence, studying biological invasions (invasion science) and human migration (migration studies) presents complex parallels that are potentially fruitful to explore. Here, we examined nuanced parallels and differences between these two phenomena, integrating historical, socio-political, and ethical perspectives. Our review underscores the need for context-specific approaches in policymaking and governance to address effectively the challenges and opportunities of human migration and harm from biological invasions. We suggest that approaches to studying the drivers of biological invasions and human migration provide an excellent opportunity for transdisciplinary research; one that acknowledges the complexities and potential insights from both fields of study. Ultimately, integrating natural and social sciences offers a promising avenue for enriching the understanding of invasion biology and migration dynamics while pursuing just, equitable, and sustainable solutions. However, while human migration is a clear driver of biological invasions, drawing on principles from biological invasions to understand past and current human migration risks oversimplification and the potential for harmful generalisations that disregard the intrinsic rights and cultural dynamics of human migrations. By doing so, we provide insights and frameworks to support the development of context-specific policies that respect human dignity, foster cultural diversity, and address migration challenges in ways that promote global cooperation and justice. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the potential for transdisciplinary research that acknowledges complexities in both fields, ultimately enriching our understanding of invasion biology and migration dynamics while pursuing equitable and sustainable solutions.

Chemical composition and bio-efficacy of agro-waste plant extracts and their potential as bioinsecticides against Culex pipiens mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are considered one of the most lethal creatures on the planet and are responsible for millions of fatalities annually through the transmission of several diseases to humans. Green trash is commonly employed in agricultural fertilizer manufacturing and microbial bioprocesses for energy production. However, there is limited information available on the conversion of green waste into biocides. This study investigates the viability of utilizing green waste as a new biopesticide against Culex pipiens mosquito larvae. The current study found that plant extracts from Punica granatum (98.4 % mortality), Citrus sinensis (92 % mortality), Brassica oleracea (88 % mortality), Oryza sativa (81.6 % mortality), and Colocasia esculenta (53.6 % mortality) were very good at killing Cx. pipiens larvae 24 h post-treatment. The LC50 values were 314.43, 370.72, 465.59, 666.67, and 1798.03 ppm for P. granatum, C. sinensis, B. oleracea, O. sativa, and C. esculenta, respectively. All plant extracts, particularly P. granatum extract (14.93 and 41.87 U/g), showed a significant reduction in acid and alkaline phosphate activity. Additionally, pomegranate extract showed a significant decrease (90 %) in field larval density, with a stability of up to five days post-treatment. GC-MS results showed more chemical classes, such as terpenes, esters, fatty acids, alkanes, and phenolic compounds. HPLC analysis revealed that the analyzed extracts had a high concentration of phenolic and flavonoid components. Moreover, there are many variations among these plants in the amount of each compound. The docking interaction showed a simulation of the atomic-level interaction between a protein and a small molecule through the binding site of target proteins, explaining the most critical elements influencing the enzyme's activity or inhibitions. The study's findings showed that the various phytochemicals found in agro-waste plants had high larvicidal activity and provide a safe and efficient substitute to conventional pesticides for pest management, as well as a potential future in biotechnology.

The effect of climate change and temperature extremes on Aedes albopictus populations: a regional case study for Italy

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, has spread widely throughout Italy since its introduction, with significant public health implications. We examine how decadal temperature trends and sub-monthly heatwave events affect its climate-driven geographical distribution and temporal dynamics using a new regional-scale dynamical Aedes model. The model is calibrated using [Formula: see text] years of ovitrap data for Emilia-Romagna and reproduces the vector seasonality and, to a lesser extent, its inter-annual variability. Simulated vector density hotspots overlap with densely populated areas in Rome, Milan, Naples, Foggia, Catania, Palermo, Lecce, Cagliari, Genoa, Turin and large urban centres in Emilia-Romagna. Lower risk is simulated over the Central Apennine mountains and the Alps. At decadal time scale, we simulate a lengthening of the active mosquito season by 0.5-3 weeks per decade, with the vector becoming homodynamic in southern Italy. Depending on the climatic setting, heatwaves can increase or reduce vector populations and, in some locations, can temporarily decrease mosquito populations. Such decreases can be followed by a population rebound and overshoot. Given the model's skill in reproducing key spatio-temporal Ae. albopictus features, there is potential to develop an early warning system to inform control efforts at a national scale.

Prioritising non-native fish species for management actions in three Polish rivers using the newly developed tool-dispersal-origin-status-impact scheme

Background

Biological invasions are a major threat to global biodiversity, with freshwater ecosystems being among the most susceptible to the successful establishment of non-native species and their respective potential impacts. In Poland, the introduction and spreading of non-native fish has led to biodiversity loss and ecosystem homogenisation.

Methods

Our study applies the Dispersal-Origin-Status-Impact (DOSI) assessment scheme, which is a population-level specific assessment that integrates multiple factors, including dispersal mechanisms, origin, status, and impacts, providing a nuanced framework for assessing invasion risks at local and regional levels. We used this tool to evaluate the risks associated with non-native fish species across three major Polish rivers (Pilica, Bzura, and Skrwa Prawa) and to prioritise them for management actions.

Results

Using DOSI, we assessed eight non-native species identified in the three studied rivers: seven in both Pilica and Bzura and four in Skrwa Prawa. The DOSI assessment scheme identified high variability in the ecological impacts and management priorities among the identified non-native species. Notably, species such as the Ponto-Caspian gobies exhibited higher risk levels due to their rapid spread and considerable ecological effects, contrasting with other species that demonstrated lower impact levels and, hence, received a lower priority for intervention.

Conclusion

The adoption of the DOSI scheme in three major rivers in Poland has provided valuable insights into the complexities of managing biological invasions, suggesting that localised, detailed assessments are crucial for effective conservation strategies and highlighting the importance of managing non-native populations locally.

The One Health approach in urban ecosystem rehabilitation: An evidence-based framework for designing sustainable cities

Rapid urbanization has led to negative, and sometimes unintended, consequences on biodiversity and human health. While cities offer numerous advantages in meeting the basic needs of a growing population, they also pose less apparent and longer-term health costs. To address the multifaceted impacts of urbanization, an evidence-based design framework for establishing mitigation and regeneration actions is essential. Via a "One Health" approach, this perspective provides recommendations and strategies for the urban ecosystem rehabilitation of future cities, placing biodiversity and ecosystem services at the core of designing healthy and sustainable urban spaces. The framework we propose is based on a Hub and Spoke model to integrate diverse perspectives from public and private sectors and declined in a six-building-blocks structure. This will ensure that efforts are sustainable, health-centered, socially inclusive, and grounded in high-quality data, reinforcing the essential connection between healthy environments and thriving communities.

Isopods infesting Atlantic bonefish (Albula vulpes) host novel viruses, including reoviruses related to global pathogens, and opportunistically feed on humans

Isopods infest fish worldwide, but their role as disease vectors remains poorly understood. Here, we describe infestation of Atlantic bonefish (Albula vulpes) in Belize with isopods in two of three locations studied, with infestation rates of 15 and 44%. Isopods fed aggressively, and infested fish showed missing scales and scars. Gross morphologic and molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed the isopods to cluster within the family Aegidae and to be most closely related to members of the genus Rocinela, which are globally distributed micro-predators of fish. Metagenomic analysis of 10 isopods identified 11 viruses, including two novel reoviruses (Reovirales) in the families Sedoreoviridae and Spinareoviridae. The novel sedoreovirus clustered phylogenetically within an invertebrate-specific clade of viruses related to the genus Orbivirus, which contains arboviruses of global concern for mammal health. The novel spinareovirus clustered within the fish-infecting genus Aquareovirus, which contains viruses of global concern for fish health. Metagenomic analyses revealed no evidence of infection of bonefish with the novel aquareovirus, suggesting that viremia in bonefish is absent, low, or transient, or that isopods may have acquired the virus from other fish. During field collections, isopods aggressively bit humans, and blood meal analysis confirmed that isopods had fed on bonefish, other fish, and humans. Vector-borne transmission may be an underappreciated mechanism for aquareovirus transmission and for virus host switching between fish and other species, which has been inferred across viral families from studies of deep virus evolution.

Effects of climate change and human activities on vector-borne diseases

Vector-borne diseases are transmitted by haematophagous arthropods (for example, mosquitoes, ticks and sandflies) to humans and wild and domestic animals, with the largest burden on global public health disproportionately affecting people in tropical and subtropical areas. Because vectors are ectothermic, climate and weather alterations (for example, temperature, rainfall and humidity) can affect their reproduction, survival, geographic distribution and, consequently, ability to transmit pathogens. However, the effects of climate change on vector-borne diseases can be multifaceted and complex, sometimes with ambiguous consequences. In this Review, we discuss the potential effects of climate change, weather and other anthropogenic factors, including land use, human mobility and behaviour, as possible contributors to the redistribution of vectors and spread of vector-borne diseases worldwide.

Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) of Poland: An Update of Species Diversity and Current Challenges

This article presents the current state of knowledge of mosquito species (Diptera: Culicidae) occurring in Poland. In comparison to the most recently published checklists (1999 and 2007), which listed 47 mosquito species, four species (Aedes japonicus, Anopheles daciae, Anopheles hyrcanus, and Anopheles petragnani) are added to the Polish fauna. Our new checklist of Polish mosquito fauna includes 51 species of mosquitoes from five genera: Aedes (30), Anopheles (8), Coquillettidia (1), Culiseta (7), and Culex (5). Aspects of the ecology and biology of the Polish mosquito fauna, with particular emphasis on newly recorded species, are discussed.

Climate-influenced vector-borne diseases in Africa: a call to empower the next generation of African researchers for sustainable solutions

We look at the link between climate change and vector-borne diseases in low- and middle-income countries in Africa. The large endemicity and escalating threat of diseases such as malaria and arboviral diseases, intensified by climate change, disproportionately affects vulnerable communities globally. We highlight the urgency of prioritizing research and development, advocating for robust scientific inquiry to promote adaptation strategies, and the vital role that the next generation of African research leaders will play in addressing these challenges. Despite significant challenges such as funding shortages within countries, various pan-African-oriented funding bodies such as the African Academy of Sciences, the Africa Research Excellence Fund, the Wellcome Trust, the U.S. National Institutes of Health, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as well as initiatives such as the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence and the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association, have empowered (or are empowering) these researchers by supporting capacity building activities, including continental and global networking, skill development, mentoring, and African-led research. This article underscores the urgency of increased national investment in research, proposing the establishment of research government agencies to drive evidence-based interventions. Collaboration between governments and scientific communities, sustained by pan-African funding bodies, is crucial. Through these efforts, African nations are likely to enhance the resilience and adaptive capacity of their systems and communities by navigating these challenges effectively, fostering scientific excellence and implementing transformative solutions against climate-sensitive vector-borne diseases.

Molecular surveillance of microbial agents from cattle-attached and questing ticks from livestock agroecosystems of Antioquia, Colombia

Ticks are obligate ectoparasites and vectors of pathogens affecting health, agriculture, and animal welfare. This study collected ticks from the cattle and questing ticks of 24 Magdalena Medio Antioquia region cattle farms. Genomic DNA was extracted from the specimens (individual or pools) of the 2088 adult ticks collected from cattle and 4667 immature questing ticks collected from pastures. The molecular detection of Babesia, Anaplasma, Coxiella and Rickettsia genera was performed by polymerase chain reaction amplification and subsequent DNA sequencing. In a total of 6755 Rhipicephalus microplus DNA samples, Anaplasma marginale was the most detected with a frequency of 2% (Confidence Interval- CI 1.68-2.36), followed by Babesia bigemina with 0.28% (CI 0.16-0.44), Coxiella spp. with 0.15% (CI 0.07-0.27), and Rickettsia spp. with 0.13% (CI 0.06-0.25). Molecular analysis of the DNA sequences obtained from the tick samples revealed the presence of Coxiella-like endosymbiont and R. felis. These results demonstrated the diversity of microorganisms present in R. microplus ticks predominantly associated with cattle and questing ticks from livestock agroecosystems, suggesting their role as reservoirs and potential biological vectors of these microorganisms on the studied sites. Also, it emphasizes the need to combine acarological surveillance with clinical diagnoses and control strategies on regional and national levels.

Distribution of Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Heamaphysalis elliptica dog ticks and pathogens they are carrying: A systematic review

The role of ixodid ticks especially Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Heamaphysalis elliptica in the epidemiology of several diseases of veterinary and public health importance have been documented. This study conducted a systematic review focusing on the distribution of R. sanguineus and H. elliptica, as well as the common tick-borne pathogens they harbour. The Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were used to search for English journal articles published between January 1990 and June 2021. The articles were assessed by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO [(ID no: CRD42022327372). Of the studies included in the systematic review, 247 and 19 articles had identified R. sanguineus and H. elliptica respectively, whereas 15 articles had identified both tick species. There is a reported worldwide distribution of R. sanguineus from 64 countries, whereas H. elliptica was only reported in the African continent from 6 countries. In total, 120 articles that were included in this systematic review reported detection of tick-borne pathogens from R. sanguineus (n = 118 articles) and/or H. elliptica (n = 2 articles) ticks. According to the studies tick-borne pathogens harboured by R. sanguineus included protozoa such as Babesia spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leishmania spp., and Theileria spp., as well as bacteria such as Acinetobacter spp. Anaplasma spp., Bacillus spp., Borrelia spp., Brucella spp., Coxiella spp., and Staphylococcus spp. The H. elliptica was reported to be harbouring Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Rickettsia spp. Most of the studies (50%) used the conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique for the detection of tick-borne pathogens, followed by real-time PCR (qPCR) (n = 26), and nested PCR (n = 22). This systematic review has shed light on the distribution of two common dog ticks as well as the tick-borne pathogens of veterinary and zoonotic importance they are harbouring. This data will enable surveillance studies that can report whether the distribution of these ticks and their associated tick-borne pathogens is expanding or shrinking or is stable.

Allergic reactions associated with medically relevant arthropods

OBJECTIVE

Vector-borne diseases are a growing burden worldwide. In particular, the risks of allergic reactions to bites are associated with growing arthropod populations in contact with the public. The diversity of allergic reactions associated with host and arthropod factors difficult disease diagnosis, prognosis and prevention. Therefore, arthropod-associated allergies are underdiagnosed and require better surveillance of arthropod populations and disease diagnosis and management.

METHODS

To face these challenges, in this study, we describe five cases to illustrate arthropod-associated allergies with different symptomatology, including alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) associated with anti-alpha-gal IgE antibody titres. Information on symptoms in response to arthropod bites was collected from patients and medical doctors.

RESULTS

The five cases included patients bitten by a robber fly and different tick species. Cases were in Spain or U.S.A. Two cases were diagnosed with AGS and one case was diagnosed with anaphylaxis in response to tick bite with high anti-alpha-gal IgE levels. The symptoms in response to arthropod bites vary between different cases.

CONCLUSION

Allergic reactions and symptoms in response to arthropod bites vary in association with host and arthropod factors. Herein we propose recommendations to control allergic symptoms, associated disease risk factors and the way forward to advance in the prevention and control of arthropod-associated allergies.

The Ongoing Epidemic of West Nile Virus in Greece: The Contribution of Biological Vectors and Reservoirs and the Importance of Climate and Socioeconomic Factors Revisited

Emerging infectious diseases have inflicted a significant health and socioeconomic burden upon the global population and governments worldwide. West Nile virus, a zoonotic, mosquito-borne flavivirus, was originally isolated in 1937 from a febrile patient in the West Nile Province of Uganda. It remained confined mainly to Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe and Australia until 1999, circulating in an enzootic mosquito-bird transmission cycle. Since the beginning of the 21st century, a new, neurotropic, more virulent strain was isolated from human outbreaks initially occurring in North America and later expanding to South and South-eastern Europe. Since 2010, when the first epidemic was recorded in Greece, annual incidence has fluctuated significantly. A variety of environmental, biological and socioeconomic factors have been globally addressed as potential regulators of the anticipated intensity of the annual incidence rate; circulation within the zoonotic reservoirs, recruitment and adaptation of new potent arthropod vectors, average winter and summer temperatures, precipitation during the early summer months, and socioeconomic factors, such as the emergence and progression of urbanization and the development of densely populated areas in association with insufficient health policy measures. This paper presents a review of the biological and socioenvironmental factors influencing the dynamics of the epidemics of West Nile virus (WNV) cases in Greece, one of the highest-ranked European countries in terms of annual incidence. To date, WNV remains an unpredictable opponent as is also the case with other emerging infectious diseases, forcing the National Health systems to develop response strategies, control the number of infections, and shorten the duration of the epidemics, thus minimizing the impact on human and material resources.