High mortality associated with tapeworm parasitism in geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Research reveals that tapeworm parasitism significantly impacts gelada survival and reproduction in Simien National Park, Ethiopia. A decade-long study found high mortality rates among adult females with Taenia serialis cysts, particularly younger adults, while male mortality showed a similar but non-significant trend due to smaller sample sizes. Offspring of infected mothers also experienced increased mortality, primarily due to maternal death. Comparisons with another gelada population suggested that T. serialis may kill hosts more rapidly in Simien National Park. The study highlights the need for further research into individual and population-level heterogeneity in parasite-associated mortality.

Schneider‐Crease, I., Griffin, R. H., Gomery, M. A., Bergman, T. J., & Beehner, J. C. (2017). High mortality associated with tapeworm parasitism in geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. American Journal of Primatology, 79(9). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.22684