PARASITES AND PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS IN ENCLOSED AND FREE-RANGING POPULATIONS OF MACROPUS-RUFUS (DEMAREST) (MARSUPIALIA) AT MENINDEE, NEW-SOUTH-WALES

A total of 115 Macvopus vufus was collected at bimonthly intervals at Menindee, N.S.W., in 1976 and 1977 and examined for parasites and pathological changes. The sample came from two populations, one free-ranging and the other a higher-density, enclosed population in Kinchega National Park. No differences were noted in the species of helminths present, prevalence or burdens of helminths between the two populations. Parasite burdens were examined for any seasonal fluctuations, for relationship to host age, and for effects on host haematological parameters and on indices of adrenocortical function. Only two nematode species, Filavinema flugvifer Monnig and Hypodontus macvopi Monnig, caused gross and histological lesions. Mild cholangitis was associated with the cestode Pvogamotaenia festiva. Helminths and incidental pathological findings are given. The helminth burdens of nine Macropus fuliginosus and one Macvopus robustus, grazing sympatrically with the M. vujus inside the Park, are listed and discussed in relation to those of M. vufus. I. © 1979, CSIRO. All rights reserved.