How are moose lice dangerous? - briefly
Moose lice damage the animal’s hide, creating lesions that can become infected and serve as entry points for bacteria or parasites. Heavy infestations may weaken the host, reducing feeding efficiency and increasing mortality risk.
How are moose lice dangerous? - in detail
Moose lice (subgenus Megalocorax) infest the skin and coat of moose, creating several health threats. Their feeding activity removes epidermal tissue, leading to irritation, inflammation, and secondary bacterial infections. Open sores provide entry points for pathogens such as Streptococcus spp., which can progress to septicemia if untreated.
The parasites also act as vectors for blood‑borne agents. Studies have identified Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. within lice specimens, indicating a capacity to transmit these microorganisms to the host during blood meals. Resulting diseases manifest as fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite, compromising the animal’s ability to forage and maintain body condition.
Heavy infestations exacerbate nutritional stress. Continuous blood loss, estimated at 0.5–1 % of body weight per month in severe cases, depletes iron stores and reduces hematocrit levels. Anemia diminishes aerobic capacity, impairing mobility and increasing susceptibility to predation and environmental hazards.
Additional indirect effects include:
- Disruption of thermoregulation: damaged pelage reduces insulation, leading to hypothermia in cold climates.
- Behavioral changes: persistent scratching and grooming increase energy expenditure and expose skin to trauma.
- Population impact: elevated morbidity and mortality rates in heavily infested groups can affect herd dynamics and reproductive success.
Effective management requires regular monitoring, prompt removal of lice, and treatment with appropriate acaricides to mitigate these risks and preserve the health of moose populations.