Occurrence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) in the Community Forest of Suryodaya Municipality llam, Nepal
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Department of Zoology
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in
Red Pandas (Ailurus fulgens) within three community forests in Suryodaya Municipality,
Ilam, Nepal. A total of 36 fecal samples were collected and examined for parasites using
concentration method. The results showed that 86.11% of the samples tested positive for
gastrointestinal parasites, with protozoans being the most prevalent (69.44%), followed by
nematodes (64%) and cestodes (13.89%). Among the protozoans, Eimeria sp. and
Entamoeba sp. were identified. Different community forests exhibited variations in
prevalence rates, with Singhadevi Forest showing the highest prevalence. Altogether seven
types of helminth parasites were recorded; including Ascarid, Strongyle and Moniezia sp.
Multiple infections were observed in 74.19% of the positive samples, with varying levels
of intensity. These findings provide insights into the parasitic burden and highlight the
importance of monitoring and managing gastrointestinal parasites in Red Panda
populations for their conservation and overall well-being.