A new definitive host for Moniliformis cestodiformis (Acanthocephala: Moniliformidae): first report of a naturally infected European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)

European hedgehogs, Erinaceus europaeus (Linnaeus, 1758), are small mammals found in western Europe and also in parts of northern Europe. They can be seen in rural, suburban and urban areas, but are usually found in grassland with edge habitats. These animals are omnivorous and serve as definitive or paratenic hosts for several parasites, including acanthocephalans (phylum Acanthocephala). During necropsy of a European hedgehog, a single adult parasite was collected from the intestinal lumen and preserved in 70% ethanol. After morphological evaluation of the specimen, it was identified as Moniliformis cestodiformis (von Linstow, 1904) (Acanthocephala: Moniliformidae). This is the first report of M. cestodiformis in a European hedgehog, as well as in Europe. More epidemiological studies need to be carried out to map the location and prevalence of this parasite in Portugal and the European continent.

Automated summary

European hedgehogs, found in western and northern Europe, are omnivorous mammals that serve as hosts for various parasites. A study discovered the presence of Moniliformis cestodiformis in the intestine of a European hedgehog, marking its first report in both the hedgehog species and Europe. Further epidemiological studies are required to understand the distribution and prevalence of this parasite in Portugal and the European continent.