Flukes are parasitic flatworms that live in the intestines of various animals, including elk.
* Specific fluke species: There are several species of flukes that can infect elk, including:
* Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke): This fluke lives in the bile ducts of the liver and can cause significant damage to the liver.
* Dicrocoelium dendriticum (lancet fluke): This fluke is found in the bile ducts and can cause chronic liver disease.
* Paramphistomum spp. (rumen flukes): These flukes live in the rumen, the first compartment of the stomach, and can cause digestive problems.
* Transmission: Flukes are typically transmitted through the consumption of infected snails or aquatic vegetation.
* Effects on elk: Fluke infestations can cause a variety of problems in elk, including:
* Weight loss: Flukes can interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss.
* Liver damage: Flukes can damage the liver, leading to liver disease.
* Decreased fertility: Flukes can reduce fertility in both male and female elk.
* Increased susceptibility to other diseases: Fluke infestations can weaken the elk's immune system, making them more susceptible to other diseases.
* Management: Managing fluke infestations in elk populations can involve controlling the snail population, treating infected elk, and reducing the availability of infected aquatic vegetation.
In summary, the relationship between elk and flukes is a parasitic one, where flukes live within the elk and can cause various health problems.