Emerging methods in noninvasive parasite surveillance in wildlife disease ecology

Szentiványi, Tamara and Vásárhelyi, Zsóka and Garamszegi, László Zsolt (2026) Emerging methods in noninvasive parasite surveillance in wildlife disease ecology. TRENDS IN PARASITOLOGY, 42 (9). pp. 808-819. ISSN 1471-4922

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Abstract

Noninvasive approaches are increasingly reshaping parasite and diseasesurveillance by reducing stress and harm to hosts while expanding opportunitiesfor ecological and epidemiological research. In this opinion article, we discussthese emerging approaches, which rely on molecular, citizen-science, andcomputational methods, for monitoring parasites, vectors, and hosts. Thesetools can improve spatial and temporal coverage, support the surveillance ofrare or threatened hosts and parasites, and contribute to the understanding oftransmission pathways and disease dynamics. However, their reliability dependson careful validation, standardized protocols, and awareness of methodological limitations. While not direct substitutes for invasive methods, these approaches lift a considerable burden from wildlife. Integrating noninvasive approaches thus provides a strong basis for advancing disease ecology, wildlife health monitoring, and biodiversity conservation.

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