| Popis: |
Biting midges of the genus Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are hematophagous in- sects mainly important as vectors of viral diseases of farm animals. They have shifted to the forefront of scientific interest in the Czech Republic primarily in relation to the Bluetongue Virus spread since 2007. However, they have been often ignored as vectors of parasitic infec- tions, especially if these are not pathogens of economic importance. In birds, which are the focus of this bachelor's thesis, biting midges are the most significant vector mainly for the genus Haemoproteus, they transmit at least 24 species of these protozoa. On the other hand, they are proven vectors for only one species of the genus Leucocytozoon - L. caulleryi. Trans- mission has been proven for three species of the genus Trypanosoma - T. avium, T. bennetti and T. everetti. Biting midges also transmit helminths of the family Onchocercidae, they play a role as vectors for the genera Eufilaria, Chandlerella and Splendidofilaria. The goal of this bachelor's thesis is to gather information about biting midges as vectors of avian blood parasites - protozoa of the genera Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma and helminths of the family Onchocercidae. Key words: biting midges, parasite, vector, host, bird, Haemoproteus,... |
