A comparative survey of Gopherus polyphemus hemoparasites in two differing South Florida habitats

The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a keystone species which affects the
biodiversity that shares its burrow. Habitat fragmentation has led to a decline in
populations within southeastern ranges. Haemogregarina (intracellular parasites)
have been identified in the blood of gopher tortoises, possibly due to the lack of
prescribed fires which are known to kill ticks. However, little is known about their
health significance. Two study sites, Blazing Star Preserve (BSP), and Pine Jog
Preserve (PJP), differ in their management. The goal of this study is: (1) determine,
if any, haemogregarina parasitemia levels of the gopher tortoise population in each
site and (2) detect any additional hemoparasite species. We hypothesize that
paristemia will be higher in BSP due to increased overcrowding and lack of
prescribed fires. This study will benefit current conservation and management
practices for gopher tortoises and provide a baseline study for intracellular
parasites.