Seasonal Periodicity of Ectoparasites of Rattus Rattus Tanezumi Temminck from Taiwan1

Abstract

The population dynamics of rat ectoparasites on Taiwan was studied. During 18 months of observation, the flea, louse, and mite populations exhibited definite seasonal periodicities. The abundance of all 3 populations was greatest during the cool fall and winter months and was least during the hot summer months. Although the relationship between ectoparasite numbers and temperature was obvious it was not clear whether this climatic effect was direct or indirect.