Parasitic fauna of the invasive house sparrow (Passer domesticus) from Ñuble region, Chile: an example of co-introduced parasites

Abstract Invasive species impact native wildlife in several ways, as they compete for resources and may transmit their specific pathogens. However, the potential consequences of co-introduced parasites are not fully understood. While house sparrow (Passer domesticus) was introduced Chile about a century ago, no data available regarding its parasites. Thus, aim present study to determine parasitic fauna this avian invader whether there co-introduced/co-invasive shared with birds. One hundred eight birds were collected from three different localities Ñuble region Chile, complete necropsy performed laboratory. Twenty-three (21.3%) parasitized by six arthropod four (3.7%) two helminth species. Four out taxa reported first time Chile; among them, tapeworm, Anonchotaenia globate, considered Only A. globata is co-invasive parasite given low degree specificity terms definitive hosts. Future research should examine additional have been brought sparrow, what might be on health Chile.