First Report of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Galapagos: High Prevalence in Dogs and Circumstantial Evidence for the Role of Rhipicephalus linnaei as Vector

The current study investigates the presence and prevalence of Anaplasma species in dogs from the Galapagos Islands, focusing on the potential vectorial role of Rhipicephalus linnaei in the transmission of these pathogens. Blood samples were collected from 1221 dogs across four islands, with tick collections for morphological and genetic identification. The results revealed a significant molecular prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum (20.3%), predominantly in Santa Cruz (35.16%) and Isabela (18.9%), while A. platys was identified in 2.9% of samples. Genetic analysis identified the presence of A. phagocytophilum ecotype I, aligning more closely with European strains. Furthermore, R. linnaei was confirmed as the only tick species associated with dogs, suggesting its role as a vector for both A. phagocytophilum and A. platys. This study marks the first molecular confirmation of these pathogens in the Galapagos, contributing with important insights into the epidemiology of tick-borne diseases in this ecosystem. The findings highlight the need for improved surveillance and control to reduce the risk and further spread of these tick-borne diseases.