Post-release challenges: case report of parasitosis by Ancylostoma sp. in a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

[Desafios pós-soltura: relato de caso de parasitose por Ancylostoma sp. em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)]

ABSTRACT

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is classified as vulnerable to extinction. Here, we report the occurrence of ancylostomiasis in a young male Myrmecophaga tridactyla. The animal was raised from a puppy in captivity with management directed toward rehabilitation and monitored soft release. Five months after release, significant weight loss was noted in the individual, who was captured for examinations, with detection of Ancylostoma sp. in coproparasitological analysis. Although common in domestic carnivores, this is the first report of hookworm disease in free-ranging giant anteaters. Due to the stress factor arising from adapting to the challenges in the new environment, long-term post-release monitoring of animals undergoing rehabilitation is extremely important to increase the chance of survival of individuals. The giant anteater was released after treatment with vermifuge composed of fenbendazole, pyrantel pamoate, and praziquantel.

Keywords: parasitology; hookworm; one health; threatened species; Xenarthra