<![CDATA[Background: Rodents and shrews are linked to the transmission of pathogens through arthropod vectors. Purpose: This study determined the prevalence of ectoparasites in rodents and shrews associated with host species, habitat, and seasonality in Mgeta, Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Method: Using a cross sectional design, Sherman and wire traps captured rodents and shrews over six months across two seasons (wet and dry) in three habitats: households, farms, and forests stratified by elevation (low and high). Ectoparasites were processed, identified, and quantified. Results: A total of 200 rodents and shrews representing eight species: Montemys delectorum, Mastomys natalensis, Lophuromys machangui, Rattus rattus, Grammomys doilichurus, Crocidura sp., Otomys angoniensis and Mus musculus. The overall ectoparasite prevalence was 62.5%. The highest prevalence was of mites (50%, Laelaps sp.), followed by fleas (25%: Dinopsyllus spp. 19%, Ctenopthalmus spp. 3%, Xenopsylla brasiliensis 2.5%) and ticks (Haemaphysalis spp., 2.5%). Low forest habitat had the highest ectoparasite prevalence (19.5%), followed by high farm (18.5%), low farm (13%), high forest (8%) and indoor (3.5%). Habitat significantly influenced overall ectoparasite and mite prevalence. The dry season had a higher ectoparasite prevalence (43.5%) than the wet season (19%). Seasonality influenced flea and mite prevalence. Conclusion: The high prevalence of public health significant ectoparasites in rodents and shrews highlights disease transmission risks. Monitoring parasitic assemblages is imperative for disease control.]]>
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