Terrestrial invertebrate hosts of human pathogens in urban ecosystems

Abstract

Terrestrial invertebrates in urban ecosystems are extremely species-rich, have many important roles in material flow and energy circulation, and are host to many human pathogens that pose threats to human health. These invertebrates are widely distributed in urban areas, including both out- and in-door environments. Consequently, humans are frequently in contact with them, which provides many opportunities for them to pose human health risks. However, comprehensive knowledge on human pathogen transfer via invertebrates is lacking, with research to date primarily focused on dipterans (e.g., mosquitoes, flies). Here, we take a broad taxonomic approach and review terrestrial invertebrate hosts (incl. mosquitoes, flies, termites, cockroaches, mites, ticks, earthworms, collembola, fleas, snails, and beetles) of human pathogens, with a focus on transmission pathways. We also discuss how urbanization and global warming are likely to influence the communities of invertebrate hosts and have flow-on risks to human health. Finally, we identify current research gaps and provide perspectives on future directions.

Keywords

• Human health
• Human pathogens
• Invertebrates
• Urbanization
• Zoonoses