Relationship between coefficient of inbreeding and parasite burden in endangered gazelles

Abstract

We studied the effects of inbreeding depression on parasite infection in three species of endangered gazelles: Gazella cuvieri, G. dama, and G. dorcas. Coefficients of inbreeding were calculated for all individuals because complete genealogies were available. The levels of inbreeding differ both intra- and interspecifically. We collected samples of feces and determined nematode infection by counting nematode eggs in the samples. At the interspecific level, the species with the highest mean levels of inbreeding (G. cuvieri) had the highest levels of gastrointestinal parasites. Analyses done at the intraspecific level revealed a positive relationship between individual coefficient of inbreeding and parasite infection in G. cuvieri, but not in the species with the intermediate and lowest levels of inbreeding. Our findings suggest that high levels of inbreeding may make individuals more susceptible to parasitism, even under favorable environmental conditions, so this factor should be taken into account by those managing endangered species.