International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology

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Short Communication - International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology (2025) Volume 13, Issue 2

Wildlife Disease Ecology: Understanding the Interplay Between Wildlife and Disease

Chiara Iacovo*

Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Italy

*Corresponding Author:
Chiara Iacovo
Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, Italy
E-mail: chiara.lacovo@unipi.it

Received: : 03-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. IJPAZ- 25-162487; Editor assigned: 05-Mar-2025, PreQC No. IJPAZ- 25-162487(PQ); Reviewed: 11-Mar-2025, QC No. IJPAZ- 25-162487; Revised:25-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. IJPAZ- 25-162487 (R); Published: 31-Mar-2025, DOI:10.35841/10.35841/ ijpaz-13.2.287

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Abstract

  

Introduction

Wildlife disease ecology is the study of the interactions between wildlife species and the diseases that affect them within natural ecosystems. It involves examining how diseases emerge, spread, and impact wildlife populations, as well as how these processes influence the broader ecosystem. [

The study of wildlife disease ecology has become increasingly important due to the growing recognition that diseases in wildlife can have significant ecological, economic, and public health consequences. The emergence of new wildlife diseases, such as the spread of zoonotic diseases (diseases transmitted from animals to humans), has highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of how diseases interact with wildlife populations and ecosystems.[

In wildlife disease ecology, scientists focus on the factors that contribute to the spread of diseases, the effects of diseases on wildlife health and behaviour, and how ecological processes influence disease dynamics. [3].

It also involves understanding how environmental changes, such as habitat destruction, climate change, and human-wildlife interactions, affect the prevalence and spread of diseases in wildlife populations. By studying these factors, wildlife disease ecologists can predict outbreaks, prevent the spread of diseases, and inform conservation and management strategies to protect wildlife and human populations [4].

Understanding how diseases are transmitted among wildlife species is a critical aspect of wildlife disease ecology. Disease transmission can occur through direct contact between individuals, such as during mating or social interactions, or indirectly through environmental sources, such as contaminated water or food.[5].

In some cases, wildlife species may serve as reservoirs for diseases, harbouring pathogens without showing symptoms, and transmitting them to other animals or humans. For example, rodents are often reservoirs for diseases like Lyme disease, while bats are known to carry viruses like rabies and Ebola. Studying how pathogens spread through wildlife populations helps predict disease outbreaks and inform prevention strategies. [6].

Many wildlife diseases are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans. Zoonotic diseases represent a significant concern for public health, as wildlife species can act as intermediaries for the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans. Well-known examples of zoonotic diseases include Ebola, Hantavirus, and avian influenza [7].

Studying the dynamics of zoonotic diseases within wildlife populations is essential for predicting and preventing potential human outbreaks. By understanding the ecological factors that influence disease transmission in wildlife, scientists can identify high-risk areas and implement measures to reduce the risk of zoonotic disease spill over into human populations. [8].

Environmental factors, such as habitat loss, climate change, and human activities, play a significant role in wildlife disease ecology. For example, deforestation and urbanization can bring wildlife species into closer contact with human populations, increasing the risk of disease transmission [9].

Changes in climate can also affect the distribution of diseases by altering the habitats of both wildlife and disease vectors (such as mosquitoes and ticks). Additionally, environmental stressors, such as pollution or resource scarcity, can weaken the immune systems of wildlife, making them more susceptible to infections. Understanding how these ecological factors influence disease dynamics is essential for managing wildlife diseases and conserving biodiversity. [10].

conclusion

Wildlife disease ecology is a vital field that helps us understand the complex interactions between wildlife, pathogens, and the environment. The study of wildlife diseases provides valuable insights into how diseases emerge, spread, and impact wildlife populations, ecosystems, and human health. As human activities continue to alter the environment, the risk of disease outbreaks in wildlife and the potential for zoonotic diseases to spill over into human populations will only increase. Understanding wildlife disease ecology is essential for protecting biodiversity, managing wildlife health, and preventing the spread of emerging infectious diseases..

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