Identification and genetic characterization of Sarcocystis arctica and Sarcocystis lutrae in red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ) from Baltic States and Spain

Background Typically, carnivores serve as definitive hosts for Sarcocystis spp. parasites; currently, their role as intermediate hosts is being elucidated. The present study aimed to identify and molecularly characterize Sarcocystis cysts detected in striated muscle of red foxes from different populations in Latvia, Lithuania and Spain.