Chronic lead intoxication decreases intestinal helminth species richness and infection intensity in mallards (Anas platyrhynchos)

Abstract Lead (Pb) pollution of aquatic habitats is a known threat to vertebrate health. Depending on Pb dosage, resulting symptoms can be chronic (sublethal) or acute (lethal). While acute exposure results in death of the animal, chronic sublethal exposure can also have consequences, reproduction, antioxidant defense and immunity being the most affected traits. While a great deal is known about Pb intoxication on avian health, relatively little is known about how intoxication impacts parasites dependent on their avian hosts. The effect of Pb on intestinal helminth species richness and infection intensity was investigated in mallards ( Anas platyrhynchos , n  = 100) from German waters. Coracoid bones were used to measure chronic Pb exposure. Intestinal helminths were characterized morphologically. Molecular approaches were also applied to identify poorly morphologically preserved parasites to obtain sequence data (cox1 gene) for species identification and future parasitological studies. Parasite species richness and infection intensity was found to be significantly lower in birds with higher chronic Pb levels suggesting both host and parasites respond to Pb exposure. Altered immune modulation in the avian host may be the underlying mechanisms of Pb triggered decrease of parasites. However, it also likely reflects differences in the susceptibility of different helminths to Pb. Cestode and acanthocephala species richness were particularly impacted by Pb exposure. We conclude that, Pb intoxication may both negatively impact avian host and parasite diversity in aquatic habitats.