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Drivers of sarcoptic mange occurrence in Mediterranean populations of red foxes
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Resumo(s)
Sarcoptic mange, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, is a widespread and highly contagious
parasitic disease that affects a wide range of mammal species, including the red fox (Vulpes vulpes).
This study aimed to analyze the factors influencing the occurrence of sarcoptic mange in red fox
populations in Central Portugal. Using camera traps, we inspected images of red foxes for probable
signs of mange infection and tested five hypotheses related to ecological and environmental drivers of
mange occurrence: climate, land use, host community, soil composition, and altitude. Our results
showed that 2.89% (N=75) of the red foxes photos had mange-compatible lesions. Climatic variables,
particularly precipitation, as well as primary productivity (NDVI), and wild mammal species diversity
(i.e. Shannon-Wiener diversity index) were significantly associated with the occurrence of mange. We
hypothesise that areas with higher precipitation creates environmental conditions that allow a higher
survival of mites outside the hosts, and higher productivity and diversity of mammals promote
opportunities for mite infections, thus enhancing the occurrence of mange in foxes. Altitude exhibited
a negative correlation with disease occurrence, suggesting that lower-altitude regions provide more
suitable conditions for mite survival and transmission. The influence of soil composition was
inconclusive. The most central region of Portugal (i.e. Góis and Arrepiado) emerged as a potential
hotspot for mange. These findings highlight the complex interactions between environmental variables
and disease dynamics and underscore the importance of habitat management and mange monitoring to
prevent and control outbreaks in wildlife populations. Ultimately, this study provides insightful new
data that can inform conservation strategies aimed at mitigating the impacts and spread of wildlife
diseases, thereby enhancing the resilience of ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
Descrição
Tese de mestrado, Biologia da Conservação, 2025, Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências
Palavras-chave
Sarna sarcóptica raposa fatores ambientais foto-armadilha vigilância e gestão de fauna selvagem Teses de mestrado - 2025