Martin, R.W., Handasyde, K.A., and Skerratt, L.F. (1998) Current distribution of sarcoptic mange in wombats. Australian Veterinary Journal, 76 (6). pp. 411-414.

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Abstract

Objective To determine the distribution and prevalence of sarcoptic mange in wombats, particularly the common wombat (Vombatus ursinus).

Design Questionnaire survey in two parts.

Procedure Questionnaires were distributed to biologists, rangers, animal carers and naturalists. Part 1 of the questionnaire aimed to determine the present distribution of sarcoptic mange in wombats (103 responses). Part 2 invited respondents to assess the prevalence of sarcoptic mange in wombats over a 3 month period (four responses). Information on wombats from 66 localities was received. Each locality represented an area of about 2500 km².

Results Mange was observed at 93% of localities surveyed and Sarcoptes scabiei was present in common wombats at 52% of localities. Sarcoptic mange was highly prevalent (22%) in two common wombat populations in Victoria. Anecdotal evidence suggested that mange epizootics are sporadic, cause significant morbidity and mortality and have a substantial effect on local abundance. The respondents did not report sarcoptic mange in either northern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus krefftii) or southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons).

Conclusions Sarcoptic mange occurs in common wombat populations throughout the range of the common wombat including Tasmania and Flinders Island. While mange epizootics are sporadic, they have the potential to threaten the long-term survival of small, remnant populations.

Item ID:	28267
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1751-0813
Keywords:	wombat; Sarcoptes scabiei; sarcoptic mange; conservation
Date Deposited:	20 Feb 2015 04:41
FoR Codes:	06 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 0608 Zoology > 060809 Vertebrate Biology @ 50% 06 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 0603 Evolutionary Biology > 060307 Host-Parasite Interactions @ 50%
SEO Codes:	96 ENVIRONMENT > 9604 Control of Pests, Diseases and Exotic Species > 960404 Control of Animal Pests, Diseases and Exotic Species in Forest and Woodlands Environments @ 50% 97 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 970106 Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences @ 50%
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