Present epidemiological problems of sarcoptic mange in wild and domestic animal

The problems attending the study of sarcoptic mange are reviewed. The systematic status of the mites is contested by two schools of thought; one maintains that only one species, Sarcoptes scabiei, can be recognised morphologically; man is the primary host and strains of the mite, secondarily acquired from man, have developed on domestic and later wild animals. The other viewpoint is that different species of Sarcoptes occur on the main groups of domestic and wild animals. Some possible undertakings and experimental studies that could be performed in game reserves are mentioned. The phenomenon of Norwegian Scabies in man is seen as a possible model to explain unusually heavy infestations in animals. The life cycle of Sarcoptes scabiei is outlined.