[Occurrence and distribution of ectoparasites in guinea pigs (Cavia spp.) in Peru, South America].

Studies on the prevalence and distribution of ectoparasites in Peru were carried out during a period of 2 1/2 years. The survey included 17,421 domesticated guinea pigs (Cavia aperea f. porcellus) from 14 departments in all bioregions and altitude levels and 143 wild guinea pigs (Cavia aperea) from three areas (El Paramo, Junin and La Raya) in the Andes and the Cordillera. The guinea pig is an important source of food, especially for the rural population, the infestation with ectoparasites, such as fleas, lice or mites greatly contributes to a decrease in production and low performance. Ectoparasites can be vectors for a variety of pathogens, which is particularly problematic due to the close association of this animal with humans. Twenty one ectoparasite species have been recovered. New knowledge about host associations and distributions could be obtained. The results of the studies are presented under faunistic and ecological aspects.