Identification of Struthiopterolichus sp. (Astigmata: Pterolichidae) in ostriches (Struthio camelus camelus) from Cauca, Colombia

Objetive. Identify ectoparasites in the primary feathers of adult ostriches in a hatchery of Department from Cauca, Colombia. Materials and methods. A total of fifteen adult animals (over 7 years old) with an average weight of 120 kg (10 were females and 5 males) were selected for the study. From each specimen, three primary feathers were extracted in the wing, being deposited in plastic bags and sent to the Basis science laboratory at Universidad Antonio Narino. A counter sample of mites fixed in alcohol at 70% was sent to laboratory of the Universidad Nacional, then, the parasites were mounted o slides and under the microscope. This study was descriptive and convenient. Results. The feathers had disorganized barbs and a brown powder on the rachis. Microscopically was identified approximately1000 specimens of a feather mite per sample of order Astigmata, family Pterolichidae and genus Struthiopterolichus sp., being able to differentiate male, female, nymphs and larvae. This is the first report of the mite Struthiopterolichus sp. in ostriches from Colombia Conclusions. In the ostriches inspected were collected feathers that contained the mite Struthiopterolichus sp. The evidence of this mite can generate alerts of control and health surveillance inside of the hatchery.