The occurrence of infectious intestinal protozoans in primates of the Lower Kinabatangan floodplain, Sabah, Malaysi

Primate parasite study is an important subject in primate research, especially withthe ongoing threats from anthropogenic disturbances such as land conversion anddeforestation. This study is conducted to investigate the occurrence ofCryptosporidium and Giardia in primates of the Lower Kinabatangan WildlifeSanctuary (LKWS), Sabah, Malaysia. Fecal samples collected were tested withimmunochromatographic test kits to rapidly screen for Cryptosporidium spp. andGiardia spp. in samples from 45 long-tailed macaques and 40 proboscis monkeys. Theoverall rate of infection for Cryptosporidium spp. for both species is moderately highat approximately 44.71% (n = 38), with 17.64% (n = 14) individuals are positive withGiardia spp., while 38.82% of the individuals (n=33) tested are not infected witheither Cryptosporidium spp. or Giardia spp. Parasite documentation is an integralaspect of primate research, as the information will provide insights on the healthstatus and disease risk of non-human primate populations, thus helping scientists tomake better conservation plans for wildlife.