Variação mensal da população de Ctenocephalides felis felis (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae) em cães de um bairro periférico de Belo Horizonte, MG

Abstract

Monthly intensity and-prevalence of fleas in dogs was evaluated with the aim of determining seasonal profile of this ectoparasitosis. There were used eight dogs from houses of the Great Belo Horizonte, MinasGerais State. They were crossbreed animals, four males and four females, Hom small to medium size, having different ages and fur color. During a period of one year, these dogs were observed and the number of fleas was estimated by two counting methods ( thumb or comb). While the experiment was carried out, no measure of fleas control was adopted. Results of the analysis, showed the highest infestation index in July and August, and the lowest in November and February. It was observed strong negative correlation between monhtly medium number of fleas and climatic parameters. mainly related to number of rainny days parameter (r = -0,81). Based on these results, it is concluded that there is a high seasonal tendency of fleas infesting dogs and the comb method showed more eficiency. Therefore, control strategies concentrating on months like March. April and May could improve rain action, the natural phenomenon of major impact on flea populations, avoiding infestation to reach greater rations during winter months.