Population Dynamics and Host Fitness Analysis of The Pigeon Chewing Lice (O: Phthiraptera) with Notes on Genus Columbicola/Columbiformes Co-Evolutionary Roots

Abstract

The present study aimed to focus on the importance of studying the chewing lice of genus Columbicola that infesting Columbiformes (pigeons and doves) from many points of view taxonomy, ecology and phylogeny in Egypt. Our study will try to cover the previous gaps in our knowledge of chewing lice/ Columbiformes relation in Egypt and worldwide through achieving the following objectives: Identify various chewing lice species that associated with Columbiformes (pigeons and doves) that are most common resident and migratory in Egypt. Study the population dynamics and seasonality of chewing lice of Rock Dove Columba livia through the year. Evaluate the phoretic relation between pigeon’s louse flies and pigeon’s chewing lice. Construct a phylograms that focus on co-evolutionary roots and geographical distribution relationships between genus Columbicola and Columbiformes.