Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
1976
Thesis Director
Bill T. Ridgeway
Abstract
The body surface areas of 18 squirrels (Sciurus niger) were calculated by regions, and the numbers and densities of the ectoparasite populations present on each region determined. Four species representing four genera of arthropods were recovered. The louse, Neohaematopinus antennatus was the most abundant organism with Orchopeas howardii, Haemagamasus reidi, and Dermacentor variabilis being also present. The average population density of all parasite species combined was highest on the back and decreased on the belly, tail, legs, and the head respectively. Body regions showing greatest average total population densities were different for males and females. The females were found to have a higher density of ectoparasites on the tail region. The highest ectoparasite density was found on the belly for the males.
Recommended Citation
Stanis, Jeanine L., "The Arthropod Ectosymbionts of the Fox Squirrel in Coles County, Illinois" (1976). Masters Theses. 3436.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/3436
