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Ethier JP, Worth M, Mazerolle MJ, Trudeau VL. Rearing density and food variety impact growth, development, and survival of larvae in the declining amphibian, Pseudacris maculata. Zoo Biol 2024; 43:416-424. [PMID: 38900371 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata Agassiz 1850) are a widespread amphibian in North America, but several populations are in decline. Specifically, we are developing captive breeding and reintroduction methods for the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence-Canadian Shield population. Here we present the effects of tadpole density, food variety, and addition of supplemental minerals to rearing water on the growth, development, and survival during the larval and metamorph/juvenile stages. We conducted two experiments using a factorial design. We found that low tadpole density (1 vs. 2 tadpoles/L) and high food variety (five food items vs. three food items) significantly increased tadpole body length and Gosner stage after 2 weeks (p < .001), increased survival to metamorphosis (p < .001), decreased time to metamorphosis (p < .001), and increased weight after metamorphosis (p < .001). On average, tadpoles in the high density/low food treatment, compared to the low density/high food, were 25% smaller after 2 weeks, had 3.9× lower survival to metamorphosis, took 1.25× longer to reach metamorphosis, and weighed 1.5× less after metamorphosis. In contrast, neither density (0.5 vs. 1 tadpole/L) nor mineral supplemented water affected growth and development, but tadpole survival was higher at 1 tadpole/L. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of rearing boreal chorus frogs in captivity and provide guidelines for rearing this and similar species in a laboratory environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megan Worth
- Biology Department, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Marc J Mazerolle
- Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
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2
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Scheun J, Venter L, Ganswindt A. A frog in hot water: the effect of temperature elevation on the adrenal stress response of an African amphibian. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17847. [PMID: 39157773 PMCID: PMC11328835 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Amphibians, with their unique physiology and habitat requirements, are especially vulnerable to changes in environmental temperatures. While the activation of the physiological stress response can help to mitigate the impact of such habitat alteration, chronic production of elevated glucocorticoid levels can be deleterious in nature. There is no empirical evidence indicating the physiological response of African amphibians to temperature changes, where individuals are unable to emigrate away from potential stressors. To rectify this, we used the edible bullfrog (Pyxicephalus edulis) as a model species to determine the effect of elevated temperature on the adrenocortical response of the species using a recently established matrix. While a control group was kept at a constant temperature (25 °C) throughout the study period, an experimental group was exposed to control (25 °C) and elevated temperatures (30 °C). Mucous swabs were collected throughout the study period to determine dermal glucocorticoid (dGC) concentrations, as a proxy for physiological stress. In addition to this, individual body mass measurements were collected. The results showed that individuals within the experimental group who experienced increased temperatures had significantly elevated dGC levels compared to the control animals. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the percentage mass change between experimental and control animals . These findings indicate the physiological sensitivity of the edible bullfrog to a thermal stressor in captivity. While this study shows the importance of proper amphibian management within the captive environment, it also highlights the coming danger of global climate change to this and similar amphibian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Scheun
- Department Nature Conservation, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Department Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Leanne Venter
- Department Nature Conservation, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Andre Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, Department Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
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3
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Böswald LF, Matzek D, von La Roche D, Stahr B, Bawidamann P, Popper B. Investigations on Xenopus laevis body composition and feeding behavior in a laboratory setting. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9517. [PMID: 38664518 PMCID: PMC11045782 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59848-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, has been used as a laboratory animal for decades in many research areas. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the nutritional physiology of this amphibian species and the feeding regimen is not standardized. The aim of the present study was to get more insights into the nutrient metabolism and feeding behavior of the frogs. In Trial 1, adult female X. laevis were fed either a Xenopus diet or a fish feed. After 4 weeks, they were euthanized, weighed, measured for morphometrics and dissected for organ weights and whole-body nutrient analysis. There were no significant differences between the diet groups regarding the allometric data and nutrient contents. The ovary was the major determinant of body weight. Body fat content increased with body weight as indicator of energy reserves. In Trial 2, 40 adult female frogs were monitored with a specifically developed digital tracking system to generate heat-maps of their activity before and up to 25 min after a meal. Three diets (floating, sinking, floating & sinking) were used. The main feed intake activity was fanning the feed into the mouth, peaking until 20 min after the meal. The different swimming characteristics of the diets thereby influenced the activity of the animals. Our dataset helps to adjust the feeding needs to the physical composition and also to meet the natural behavioral patterns of feed intake as a prerequisite of animal wellbeing and animal welfare in a laboratory setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda F Böswald
- Chair for Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Schönleutnerstr 8, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Dana Matzek
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Dominik von La Roche
- Chair for Fish Diseases and Fisheries Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80539, München, Germany
| | - Bianca Stahr
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Pascal Bawidamann
- Chair for Fish Diseases and Fisheries Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80539, München, Germany
| | - Bastian Popper
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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4
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Modica BP, Koutsos EA. Insectivore Nutrition - A Review of Current Knowledge. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2024; 27:47-69. [PMID: 37625941 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Insectivores are represented in virtually all taxa, although more is known about mammalian and avian insectivore nutrition than for reptiles, amphibia and fish. Establishing nutrient requirements is challenging but recommendations should be based on data from similar taxa, similar GI tract physiology, and known nutritional concerns. In order to provide an appropriate diet for insectivores, consideration must be given to anatomy and method for procuring insects in free-ranging habitats, availability of feeder insects and the resulting dietary nutrient profiles, and complementing those profiles with appropriate diet items from various other categories including formulated feed, produce, animal matter, seeds or grains etc. Consideration of known nutritional concerns for a given species, and the variation in energy requirements in a captively managed situation are essential.
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Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Carotenoid Concentrations in Livers of Marine Toads (Rhinella marina). JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg4010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Global amphibian population decline is a major concern. Therefore, conservation centers have become increasingly needed for population sustainability breeding programs. This need makes proper nutrition programs while in human care imperative. The specific nutritional focus of this current research was to analyze vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid (apocarotenoid, β-carotene, β-carotene ester, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lutein ester, zeaxanthin, and zeaxanthin ester) concentrations in the liver of 66 free-range marine toads (Rhinella marina) over a two-month period after entering human management. Toads were fed supplemented crickets randomly assigned to one of two diets: Diet 1 consisted of brown house crickets (Acheta domestica) gut loaded with Mazuri® Cricket Diet 5M38 and small amounts of sweet potato and carrots; Diet 2 consisted of an identical diet with the gut loaded crickets additionally dusted with Repashy® Superfoods Vitamin A Plus. Ten toads were euthanized prior to human management on Day 0 to assess baseline liver nutrients. Seven toads consuming each of the two diets (14 toads total) were euthanized on Days 9, 15, 32, and 62. Regardless of diet treatment, there were decreases (p < 0.05) in all the analyzed nutrient concentrations over the 62-day human management period. The results from this study indicate that higher dietary vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid content may be needed and/or the cricket gut loading and dusting techniques used to feed the amphibians food source insects may be inadequate.
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Byrne PG, Anastas ZM, Silla AJ. A test for plasticity in sperm motility activation in response to osmotic environment in an anuran amphibian. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9387. [PMID: 36203626 PMCID: PMC9526115 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary theory predicts that selection will favor phenotypic plasticity in sperm traits that maximize fertilization success in dynamic fertilization environments. In species with external fertilization, osmolality of the fertilization medium is known to play a critical role in activating sperm motility, but evidence for osmotic-induced sperm plasticity is limited to euryhaline fish and marine invertebrates. Whether this capacity extends to freshwater taxa remains unknown. Here, we provide the first test for plasticity in sperm-motility activation in response to osmotic environment in an anuran amphibian. Male common eastern froglets (Crinia signifera) were acclimated to either low (0 mOsmol kg-1) or high (50 mOsmol kg-1) environmental osmolality, and using a split-sample experimental design, sperm were activated across a range of osmolality treatments (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 200 ± 2 mOsmol kg-1). Unexpectedly, there was no detectable shift in the optimal osmolality for sperm-motility activation after approximately 13 weeks of acclimation (a period reflecting the duration of the winter breeding season). However, in both the low and high acclimation treatments, the optimal osmolality for sperm-motility activation mirrored the osmolality at the natural breeding site, indicating a phenotypic match to the local environment. Previously it has been shown that C. signifera display among-population covariation between environmental osmolality and sperm performance. Coupled with this finding, the results of the present study suggest that inter-population differences reflect genetic divergence and local adaptation. We discuss the need for experimental tests of osmotic-induced sperm plasticity in more freshwater taxa to better understand the environmental and evolutionary contexts favoring adaptive plasticity in sperm-motility activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip G. Byrne
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and LifesciencesUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Zara M. Anastas
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and LifesciencesUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Aimee J. Silla
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and LifesciencesUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
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Effects of Sex and Whole Life Cycle UVB Irradiation on Performance and Mineral and Vitamin D3 Contents in Feeder Crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus). JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3030036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Captive insectivore nutrition is challenging due to the differing nutritional profiles of wild and captive diets and an incomplete understanding of both. Ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiation has recently been explored as a means of improving prey-insect vitamin D3 and Ca content. Although short-term irradiation has been successful in some species, it has been unsuccessful in black field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus)—a commonly cultured feeder insect. We exposed crickets to UVB irradiation from hatchling to adult stages and measured the vitamin D3 and mineral contents of crickets by sex. We did not detect vitamin D3 (detection limit 0.5 iU/g) or an effect of UVB irradiation on mineral content under either UV+ or UV− conditions. We identified large differences between sexes in Ca, K, Mg and P (females higher) and Cu, Fe, S and Zn (males higher), likely linked to reproductive investment. The differences do not straddle the minimum recommended concentrations of minerals for vertebrate growth and thus may be most relevant to animal nutrition in contexts of particular sensitivity or need. We demonstrate a UV-linked trade-off in cricket performance between individual cricket size and the numbers of crickets produced and characterise the energy costs associated with UVB provision. Our results do not support the use of UVB lighting for G. bimaculatus to improve nutrition but demonstrate previously unreported differences in the nutritional profiles between sexes in this species.
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Kelleher SR, Silla AJ, Hunter DA, McFadden MS, Byrne PG. Captive diet does not influence exploration behavior upon reintroduction to the wild in a critically endangered amphibian. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2022.985545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exploration behavior can have profound effects on individual fitness. Consequently, knowledge of the proximate mechanisms underpinning exploration behavior may inform conservation breeding programs (CBPs) for threatened species. However, the environmental factors that influence exploration behavior in captivity and during the reintroduction process remain poorly understood. Dietary micronutrients, such as carotenoids, are known to affect the expression of energetically costly behavioral traits, and theoretically may also influence the degree of exploration behavior in various contexts. Here, we investigate whether dietary β-carotene supplementation in captivity influences exploration behavior upon reintroduction to the wild in the critically endangered southern corroboree frog, Pseudophryne corroboree. We conducted a manipulative dietary experiment where captive bred P. corroboree were supplemented with different doses of β-carotene for 40 weeks prior to release. Frogs (n = 115) were reintroduced to the wild using a soft-release approach, where they were released into field enclosures specifically designed for this species. Upon reintroduction, the frogs’ initial exploration behavior was measured using a standardized behavioral assay. There was no effect of diet treatment on any measure of exploration behavior (mean latency to leave the initial refuge, time spent mobile within the release apparatus and latency to disperse into the field enclosure). However, there was a significant relationship between individual body size and latency to leave the refuge, whereby smaller individuals left the refuge more rapidly. While these findings provide no evidence that β-carotene at the dosages tested influences P. corroboree exploration behavior in a reintroduction context, the effect of body size draws attention to the potential for bodily state to influence exploration behavior. We discuss the need for ongoing research investigating the influence of captive diet on post release behavior, and highlight how knowledge concerning state-dependent behavior might help to inform and direct reintroduction programs.
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9
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Recovering an endangered frog species through integrative reproductive technologies. Theriogenology 2022; 191:141-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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10
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Analysis of Circulating Fatty Acid Profiles in Free-Ranging and Managed Care Marine Toads (Rhinella marina) with a Comparison of Whole-Blood Vial and Whole-Blood Dried Blood Spot Card Analyses. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3030024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This study provides novel data on circulating concentrations of whole-blood fatty acids (FAs) in marine toads (Rhinella marina) via dried blood spot (DBS) card technology as a potential amphibian model species. Free-ranging (n = 10) animals were compared to managed populations fed two diet strategies for 60 days (n = 6 per diet). Thirty-six individual FAs were analyzed, with 28 found in significant reportable quantities. Eight FA groupings were represented. Traditional whole-blood vial (WBV) FA percentages were also collected and compared to DBS after managed care for 60 days. Results showed eleven individual FAs and four FA groups were higher in free-ranging toads (n = 10; p ≤ 0.05), while three FAs and three groups were higher in managed care (n = 12; p ≤ 0.05). FA concentrations compared between DBS cards and WBV at day 60 generally agreed, although two individual FAs and one grouping were higher in DBS (p ≤ 0.05). When free-ranging FAs were analyzed by sex, four individual FAs and two groupings were higher in females, while four individual FAs and one grouping were higher in males. Understanding normal FA circulating levels and how husbandry changes them may impact amphibian health. Additionally, DBS cards may provide a convenient sampling tool for fieldwork.
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Valdés F, Villanueva V, Durán E, Campos F, Avendaño C, Sánchez M, Domingoz-Araujo C, Valenzuela C. Insects as Feed for Companion and Exotic Pets: A Current Trend. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1450. [PMID: 35681914 PMCID: PMC9179905 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review was to carry out a comprehensive investigation of the benefits of incorporating insects as a pet food ingredient and the implications this can have in determining a market demand for insect-based pet foods. Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens), mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor) and adult house crickets (Acheta domesticus) are currently used in pet food. These insects are widely fed to exotic pets, mainly in whole, live or dehydrated formats. They are also incorporated as meal or fat and are offered to cats and dogs as dry or wet food and treats. Scientific studies about the use of insects for dog and cat feed are scarce. Most studies are in dogs. Research shows that insect nutrients, mainly amino acids, have high digestibility, are beneficial to health, do not have any detrimental effect on the gut microbiota and are accepted by dogs. In several countries, insects are approved for use in pet food and commercialization has spread throughout the world. Pet owners are willing to try foods made with insect meal for their pets. In conclusion, the use of insects in pet food is a reality that is taking on more and more prominence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carolina Valenzuela
- Departamento de Fomento de la Producción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias de la Universidad de Chile, La Pintana, Santiago 11735, Chile; (F.V.); (V.V.); (E.D.); (F.C.); (C.A.); (M.S.); (C.D.-A.)
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12
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Carotenoid intake during early life mediates ontogenetic colour shifts and dynamic colour change during adulthood. Anim Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Böswald LF, Matzek D, Popper B. Current Feeding Practice of Xenopus laevis in a Laboratory Setting. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12091163. [PMID: 35565589 PMCID: PMC9101390 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The standardization of husbandry conditions, feeding regimens, and diets is the prerequisite for the comparability of results generated by the use of laboratory animals. Compared to rodents, which account for the largest proportion of laboratory animals worldwide, standardization is still inadequate for aquatic species, especially clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis). In this context, species-specific feeding is important for standardization and animal health and welfare. However, the current feeding recommendations for Xenopus are extrapolated from other species’ nutrient requirements. In addition, the feeding regimen itself affects animal behavior. In particular, the feed intake seems to be influenced by the type of feed. Using a questionnaire, the most common methods of husbandry and feeding of Xenopus laevis in laboratory settings were recorded, and the feeds were compared to the recommendations by Ferrie. The results showed variations with regard to husbandry and feeding concepts between facilities. Commercial Xenopus diets and fish feed were the most commonly used feeds, all meeting the recommendation for protein content but differing considerably in mineral content (based on labelled information). It appears that the feed composition and feeding regimen need to be the focus of further research to ensure that feeding and husbandry are adapted to nutritional and behavioral needs. Abstract African clawed frogs are common animal models used in various research areas. However, husbandry and especially feeding regimens are not nearly as standardized as is established for other laboratory animals. We recorded the diets and feeding protocols commonly used in laboratory practice in a questionnaire (18 responses). The survey revealed a wide variety of housing conditions. Feeding protocols and, in particular, diet composition varied considerably between facilities. While diets tailored to Xenopus were used in the majority, differences in feeding frequency and dietary components were noted. From five responses, the weekly feed intake per frog could be calculated, showing considerable differences in dry matter intake (1.37–5.4 g). The labelled nutrient content of the diets fed in the facilities (n = 10) met the recommendations in most cases, with protein as the major energy source. However, the mineral content varied markedly between diets. Both floating and sinking diets were used, while quickly sinking diets were associated with feed leftovers. Feed processing may likely influence feed intake behavior. Further research is needed to ensure standardization for aquatic species with respect to husbandry systems, feeding regimens, and especially the nutrient composition of feeds. Furthermore, this work will contribute positively to animal welfare and the comparability of research results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda F. Böswald
- Chair for Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Schönleutnerstr. 8, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany;
| | - Dana Matzek
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152 München, Germany;
| | - Bastian Popper
- Biomedical Center, Core Facility Animal Models, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Großhaderner Straße 9, 82152 München, Germany;
- Correspondence:
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URINARY CORTICOSTERONE CONCENTRATIONS IN FREE-RANGING AND MANAGED CANE TOADS ( RHINELLA MARINA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 52:1234-1240. [PMID: 34998294 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 40% of amphibian species are threatened with extinction. The welfare of amphibians maintained under managed care as assurance populations is of vital importance to guard against extinction and provide a viable source population for future reintroduction. To manage amphibian species properly ex situ, it is important to understand how stress levels change over time when animals are removed from the wild and placed into managed environments. Corticosterone was analyzed in urine samples from free-ranging cane toads (Rhinella marina, n = 55) in Miami, FL, and under managed care for 22 (n = 48), 50 (n = 11), 81 (n = 25), or 119 (n = 10) days. Concentrations of corticosterone in free-ranging toad urine averaged 1.74 ± 0.195 ng/ml urine specific gravity (sp. gr.), which was greater (P < 0.05) than other time points (day 22: 0.77 ± 0.114 L; day 81: 0.85 ± 0.191 ng/ml sp. gr.; day 119: 0.58 ± 0.093 ng/ml sp. gr.), except day 50 (0.91 ± 0.274 ng/ml sp. gr.), which was not different from free-ranging or managed care values. Thus, corticosterone was lower in cane toads under managed care compared with those sampled in the wild, suggesting that managed care is not a stressor for this species.
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15
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Freel T, Koutsos E, Minter LJ, Tollefson T, Ridgley F, Smith D, Scott H, Ange-van Heugten K. Cane toad (Rhinella marina) vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid kinetics. Zoo Biol 2022; 41:34-43. [PMID: 34455629 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Many amphibian species are threatened with extinction. Understanding their vitamin A (retinol), E (alpha-tocopherol), and carotenoid requirements is vital, as normal levels of these nutrients have a known connection to breeding success with abnormal levels leading to disease. This research examined vitamins A, E, and carotenoids (apocarotenoid, beta-carotene; beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and esters) concentration kinetics in the liver and plasma of 65 (57.8) cane toads (Rhinella marina) over 4 months supplemented with commercially available invertebrates in human care. Cane toads were opportunistically collected as part of a population control program for use as an amphibian model species. Toads were randomly assigned to one of two diets: treatment 1 was brown house crickets (Acheta domesticus) consuming Mazuri® Hi Calcium Gut Loading Diet without vitamin A or E supplement, plus fresh raw vegetables (carrot/sweet potato); Treatment 2 was the same diet except no vegetables. Ten toads were euthanized on Day 0 to analyze baseline free-ranging liver and plasma metabolites. Six toads consuming each treatment were euthanized on Days 22, 50, and 81, and n = 7 on Day 119 for analysis. Regardless of dietary treatment, most liver and blood metabolites were substantially higher at time 0 than all time points thereafter (p < .05); Ex: liver vitamin A at time 0 was 87.7 ± 16.12 µg/g while Day 119 for treatments 1 and 2 were 11.6 ± 1.19 and 8.2 ± 0.74, respectively. Few statistically significant differences between diets at the same time point were noted (p < .05). The results from this study indicate that additional or alternative diet supplementation may be needed for cane toads (and potentially other amphibians) to mimic their free-ranging diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarra Freel
- Department of Animal Science, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Troy Tollefson
- Mazuri® Exotic Animal Nutrition, PMI Nutrition, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Frank Ridgley
- Department of Conservation and Research, Zoo Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Dustin Smith
- North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, North Carolina, USA
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Zhang M, Wilson SS, Casey KM, Thomson PE, Zlatow AL, Langlois VS, Green SL. Degenerative Osteoarthropathy in Laboratory Housed Xenopus (Silurana) tropicalis. Comp Med 2021; 71:512-520. [PMID: 34794532 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-21-000061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In this case study, 15 adult laboratory Xenopus (Silurana) tropicalis (7 adult males and 8 adult females) were examined for nodular enlargements of the clawed digits (digits 0, I, II, and III) on the hind feet. Radiographs showed smoothly margined, rounded, peripherally mineralized lesions arising from the distal phalanges of digits 0-III with osteoproductive and osteolytic components in all frogs. Micro computed tomography (microCT) scans further revealed interphalangeal (IP), metacarpophalangeal (MCP), and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint osteoarthritis characterized by periarticular new bone formation, rounded mineral foci both peripherally and centrally within the joints, and more rarely, linear mineralization palmar/plantar to the joints in the flexor tendons. In the nonclawed digits, the shape of the distal phalanx was variably distorted and both subluxation and malangulation of IP joints were identified. Histologically, nodules corresponded to a peripheral rim of mature cortical bone surrounding central adipose tissue, scattered hematopoietic elements, and residual bone of the distal phalanx. Occasionally, the peripheral rim of cortical bone extended proximally to encompass the distal aspect of adjacent phalanx. MCP, MTP and IP joint spaces of most digits exhibited widespread osteoarthritis characterized by periarticular cartilaginous or osseous metaplasia, bony remodeling, and less frequently, granulomatous osteomyelitis. Nutritional analyses of the feed did not indicate imbalances nor were the lesions consistent with metabolic bone disease. The exact etiopathogenesis of these lesions is unknown; however, we hypothesize that the osteoarthritic changes are due to a combination of the frogs' mature age, the unique structure of the Xenopus spp. claw, genetics and biomechanical forces on the digits and distal phalanges of the hind feet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyun Zhang
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Sabrina S Wilson
- Diagnostic Imaging Service, William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California
| | - Kerriann M Casey
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Paisley E Thomson
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS) - Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Anne L Zlatow
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS) - Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Sherril L Green
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California;,
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17
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Higgins K, Guerrel J, Lassiter E, Mooers A, Palen WJ, Ibáñez R. Observations on spindly leg syndrome in a captive population of Andinobates geminisae. Zoo Biol 2021; 40:330-341. [PMID: 33734478 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Amphibian health problems of unknown cause limit the success of the growing number of captive breeding programs. Spindly leg syndrome (SLS) is one such disease, where affected individuals with underdeveloped limbs often require euthanization. We experimentally evaluated husbandry-related factors of SLS in a captive population of the critically endangered frog, Andinobates geminisae. SLS has been linked to tadpole nutrition, vitamin B deficiency, water filtration methods, and water quality, but few of these have been experimentally tested. We tested the effects of water filtration method and vitamin supplementation (2017) and the effects of tadpole husbandry protocol intensity (2018) on time to metamorphosis and the occurrence of SLS. We found that vitamin supplementation and reconstituted reverse osmosis filtration of tadpole rearing water significantly reduced SLS prevalence and that reduced tadpole husbandry delayed time to metamorphosis. A fortuitous accident in 2018 resulted in a decrease in the phosphate content of rearing water, which afforded us an additional opportunity to assess the influence of phosphate on calcium sequestration. We found that tadpoles that had more time to sequester calcium for ossification during development had decreased the prevalence of SLS. Taken together, our results suggest that the qualities of the water used to rear tadpoles plays an important role in the development of SLS. Specifically, filtration method, vitamin supplementation, and calcium availability of tadpole rearing water may play important roles. Focused experiments are still needed, but our findings provide important information for amphibian captive rearing programs affected by high SLS prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Higgins
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jorge Guerrel
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panamá, Republic of Panama
| | - Elliot Lassiter
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panamá, Republic of Panama
| | - Arne Mooers
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wendy J Palen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panamá, Republic of Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación, SENACYT, Panamá, Republic of Panama
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18
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Silla AJ, Calatayud NE, Trudeau VL. Amphibian reproductive technologies: approaches and welfare considerations. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab011. [PMID: 33763231 PMCID: PMC7976225 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Captive breeding and reintroduction programs have been established for several threatened amphibian species globally, but with varied success. This reflects our relatively poor understanding of the hormonal control of amphibian reproduction and the stimuli required to initiate and complete reproductive events. While the amphibian hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis shares fundamental similarities with both teleosts and tetrapods, there are more species differences than previously assumed. As a result, many amphibian captive breeding programs fail to reliably initiate breeding behaviour, achieve high rates of fertilization or generate large numbers of healthy, genetically diverse offspring. Reproductive technologies have the potential to overcome these challenges but should be used in concert with traditional methods that manipulate environmental conditions (including temperature, nutrition and social environment). Species-dependent methods for handling, restraint and hormone administration (including route and frequency) are discussed to ensure optimal welfare of captive breeding stock. We summarize advances in hormone therapies and discuss two case studies that illustrate some of the challenges and successes with amphibian reproductive technologies: the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa; USA) and the northern corroboree frog (Pseudophryne pengilleyi; Australia). Further research is required to develop hormone therapies for a greater number of species to boost global conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee J Silla
- Corresponding author: School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia.
| | - Natalie E Calatayud
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Taronga, Western Plains Zoo, Obley Rd, Dubbo, New South Wales 2830, Australia
- San Diego Zoo Global-Beckman Center for Conservation Research, San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
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19
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Abstract
Amphibians represent a diverse group of animals with highly varied behaviors depending on their anatomy, physiology, and ecological niche. Behavioral and welfare issues in amphibians are frequent in captive settings and warrant evaluation. Welfare criteria and clinical diagnostic assays when combined with a comprehension of the natural history of a species are useful tools to improve both the well-being of the individual animal and the population. Correction of environmental factors that affect behavior and, secondarily, survival and reproduction is important in captivity and for the conservation of wild populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon T Ferrell
- Zoo de Granby, 525, rue Saint-Hubert, Granby, Quebec J2G 5P3, Canada.
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20
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Brenes-Soto A, Tye M, Esmail MY. The Role of Feed in Aquatic Laboratory Animal Nutrition and the Potential Impact on Animal Models and Study Reproducibility. ILAR J 2020; 60:197-215. [PMID: 33094819 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Feed plays a central role in the physiological development of terrestrial and aquatic animals. Historically, the feeding practice of aquatic research species derived from aquaculture, farmed, or ornamental trades. These diets are highly variable, with limited quality control, and have been typically selected to provide the fastest growth or highest fecundity. These variations of quality and composition of diets may affect animal/colony health and can introduce confounding experimental variables into animal-based studies that impact research reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Brenes-Soto
- Department of Animal Science, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Marc Tye
- Zebrafish Core Facility, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Michael Y Esmail
- Tufts Comparative Medicine Services, Tufts University Health Science Campus, Boston, Massachusetts
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21
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Lassiter E, Garcés O, Higgins K, Baitchman E, Evans M, Guerrel J, Klaphake E, Snellgrove D, Ibáñez R, Gratwicke B. Spindly leg syndrome in Atelopus varius is linked to environmental calcium and phosphate availability. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235285. [PMID: 32598402 PMCID: PMC7323948 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Spindly leg syndrome (SLS) is a relatively common musculoskeletal abnormality associated with captive-rearing of amphibians with aquatic larvae. We conducted an experiment to investigate the role of environmental calcium and phosphate in causing SLS in tadpoles. Our 600-tadpole experiment used a fully-factorial design, rearing Atelopus varius tadpoles in water with either high (80mg/l CaCO3), medium (50mg/l CaCO3), or low calcium hardness (20mg/l CaCO3), each was combined with high (1.74 mg/l PO4) or low (0.36 mg/l PO4) phosphate levels. We found that calcium supplementation significantly improved tadpole survival from 19% to 49% and that low calcium treatments had 60% SLS that was reduced to about 15% at the medium and high calcium treatments. Phosphate supplementation significantly reduced SLS prevalence in low calcium treatments. This experimental research clearly links SLS to the calcium: phosphate homeostatic system, but we were unable to completely eliminate the issue, suggesting an interactive role of other unidentified factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Lassiter
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panamá
| | - Orlando Garcés
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panamá
| | - Kathleen Higgins
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panamá
- Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Matthew Evans
- Reptile Discovery Center, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Jorge Guerrel
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panamá
| | - Eric Klaphake
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Donna Snellgrove
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, Leicestershire, England, United Kingdom
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama City, Panamá
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación, Secretaría Nacional de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación, Panama City, Panamá
| | - Brian Gratwicke
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
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22
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Brenes-Soto A, Dierenfeld ES, Muñoz-Saravia A, Janssens GPJ. No longer a leap in the dark: the importance of protein as an energy source in amphibians. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ellen S. Dierenfeld
- E. S. Dierenfeld (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7295-0740), LLC, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Geert P. J. Janssens
- G. P. J. Janssens (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5191-3657), Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent Univ., Heidestraat 19, BE-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium. ABS also at: Animal Science Dept, Univ. of Costa Rica, Ciudad Universi
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23
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Brenes-Soto A, Dierenfeld ES, Bosch G, Hendriks WH, Janssens GPJ. Gaining insights in the nutritional metabolism of amphibians: analyzing body nutrient profiles of the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis. PeerJ 2019; 7:e7365. [PMID: 31410305 PMCID: PMC6689220 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.7365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Whole bodies of Xenopus laevis (n = 19) were analysed for chemical composition and morphometrics. The nutrient profile (macronutrients, amino acids, fatty acids and minerals) was evaluated by sex; interactions among variables with body weights and lengths, and comparisons made with different species of marine and fresh water fish. Significant differences were found in morphometric measurements, water content, several minerals and fatty acids between sexes of X. laevis. Amino acid profiles differed in methionine, proline and cysteine, which could underlie different metabolic pathways in frogs when compared to fish. In addition, fatty acid profiles revealed more monounsaturated and n − 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in frogs than in fish, more similar to values reported for terrestrial than aquatic vertebrates. Important interactions were also found between body measurements and fat, calcium, and phosphorus, as well as between essential and non-essential amino acids. The results indicate that frogs might have particular biochemical pathways for several nutrients, dependent on sex and linked to body weight, which ultimately could reflect specific nutrient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Brenes-Soto
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.,Animal Science Department, University of Costa Rica, Ciudad Universitaria Rodrigo Facio, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | | | - Guido Bosch
- Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter H Hendriks
- Animal Nutrition Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Geert P J Janssens
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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24
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McInerney EP, Silla AJ, Byrne PG. Effect of carotenoid class and dose on the larval growth and development of the critically endangered southern corroboree frog. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz009. [PMID: 30906558 PMCID: PMC6425257 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Dietary carotenoids are expected to improve vertebrate growth and development, though evidence for beneficial effects remains limited. One reason for this might be that few studies have directly compared the effects of carotenoids from different classes (carotenes versus xanthophylls) at more than one dose. Here, we tested the effect of two doses of dietary β-carotene and lutein (representing two different carotenoid classes) on the growth and development of larval southern corroboree frogs (Pseudophryne corroboree). Individuals were supplemented with either β-carotene or lutein at one of two doses (0.1 mg g-1, 1 mg g-1), or given a diet without carotenoids (control). Each dietary treatment included 36 replicate individuals, and individuals remained on the same diet until metamorphosis (25-39 weeks). We measured larval survival, larval growth (body length), time to metamorphosis, metamorphic body size (mass and SVL), and body condition. Lutein had no detectable effect on larval growth and development. However, larvae receiving a high dose (1 mg g-1) of β-carotene metamorphosed significantly faster than all other dietary treatments, despite no significant differences in growth rate. This result indicates that β-carotene supplementation in P. corroboree has positive effects on development independent of growth effects. Our study provides new evidence for differential effects of carotenoid class and dose on vertebrate development. From a conservation perspective, our findings are expected to assist with the recovery of P. corroboree by expediting the generation of frogs required for the maintenance of captive insurance colonies, or the provision of frogs for release. More broadly, our study highlights the potential for dietary manipulation to assist with the ex situ management of threatened amphibian species worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma P McInerney
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Aimee J Silla
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Phillip G Byrne
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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25
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Camperio Ciani JF, Guerrel J, Baitchman E, Diaz R, Evans M, Ibáñez R, Ross H, Klaphake E, Nissen B, Pessier AP, Power ML, Arlotta C, Snellgrove D, Wilson B, Gratwicke B. The relationship between spindly leg syndrome incidence and water composition, overfeeding, and diet in newly metamorphosed harlequin frogs (Atelopus spp.). PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204314. [PMID: 30325919 PMCID: PMC6191089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spindly Leg Syndrome (SLS) is a persistent animal welfare issue associated with the rearing of amphibians in captivity. We conducted two experiments to investigate the effects of diet, water composition and overfeeding on prevalence of SLS in newly metamorphosed harlequin frogs (Atelopus spp.). In our first experiment, we offered 400 full-sibling tadpoles of Atelopus certus isocaloric diets in treatments of 31%, 37%, 42% and 48% crude protein respectively. Tadpoles fed higher protein diets metamorphosed faster, but the incidence of SLS exceeded 80% in all treatments leading to the conclusion that variation in dietary protein was not responsible for causing SLS. We used 720 full-sibling Atelopus glyphus tadpoles in a second experiment to examine the effects of diet type, water composition and diet ration on SLS. We found that an overall incidence of 58% spindly leg in tadpoles reared in tap water, but reduced to about 10% in water treated by reverse osmosis and then reconstituted. It is possible that the reverse osmosis treatment removed some factor that caused the SLS, or that the reconstitution may have added a mineral lacking in the original tap water. Within tap water treatments, overfeeding tadpoles in tanks increased the incidence of SLS. We recommend further experimental research into this condition to identify the causative factors in the water. Additional research into the nutritional composition of food available to wild tadpoles would be useful in formulating captive diets, that have to date been solely based on surrogate species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jorge Guerrel
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panamá
| | - Eric Baitchman
- Zoo New England, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Rigoberto Diaz
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panamá
| | - Matthew Evans
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panamá
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación, Secretaría Nacional de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación, Panamá
| | - Heidi Ross
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panamá
| | - Eric Klaphake
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, CO, United States of America
| | - Bradley Nissen
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project, Panamá
| | - Allan P. Pessier
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Michael L. Power
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Caitlin Arlotta
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Donna Snellgrove
- Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition, Freeby Lane, Waltham on the Wolds, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Brad Wilson
- Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Brian Gratwicke
- Zoo New England, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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26
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Keogh LM, Silla AJ, McFadden MS, Byrne PG. Dose and life stage-dependent effects of dietary beta-carotene supplementation on the growth and development of the Booroolong frog. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 6:coy052. [PMID: 30254750 PMCID: PMC6144775 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coy052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Carotenoids are known for their antioxidant capacity and are considered to play an important role in vertebrate growth and development. However, evidence for their beneficial effects remains limited, possibly because very few studies have tested for dose effects across different life stages. The present study investigated the effect of various doses of dietary beta-carotene supplements on the growth and development of larval and post-metamorphic Booroolong frogs (Litoria booroolongensis). Larval and post-metamorphic basal diets (containing 0.015 and 0.005 mg g-1 total carotenoids, respectively) were supplemented with beta-carotene at one of four concentrations: 0 mg g-1, 0.1 mg g-1, 1 mg g-1 and 10 mg g-1. Each treatment included 72 replicate individuals, and individuals remained on the same diet treatment over both life stages (spanning 53 experimental weeks). Our results show that larvae receiving an intermediate (1 mg g-1) beta-carotene supplement dose grew faster than unsupplemented larvae (0 mg g-1), and metamorphosed earlier. After metamorphosis, there was no effect of the lowest supplement dose (0.1 mg g-1) on growth and development. However, juveniles fed the highest supplement dose (10 mg g-1) displayed significantly smaller body mass and lower body condition, compared to all other supplement doses, from 4-months through to sexual maturity (7-months). These findings indicate that beta-carotene supplementation has positive effects on growth and development, but only at intermediate doses, and only in the larval life stage. This knowledge may assist with amphibian conservation by expediting the rate that metamorphs can be generated in captive breeding programmes. More broadly, this is the first study to demonstrate both dose and life stage-dependent effects of dietary beta-carotene supplementation on vertebrate growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leesa M Keogh
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Aimee J Silla
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael S McFadden
- Herpetofauna Department, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW, Australia
| | - Phillip G Byrne
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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27
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Jayson S, Ferguson A, Goetz M, Routh A, Tapley B, Harding L, Michaels CJ, Dawson J. Comparison of the nutritional content of the captive and wild diets of the critically endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) to improve its captive husbandry. Zoo Biol 2018; 37:332-346. [PMID: 30221785 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
It is vital to provide appropriate nutrition to maintain healthy populations in conservation breeding programs. Knowledge of the wild diet of a species can be used to inform captive diet formulation. The nutritional content of the wild diet of the critically endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) is unknown, like that of most amphibians. In this study, we analyzed the nutritional content of food items that comprise 91% of the wild diet of L. fallax, by dry weight of food items, and all food items offered to captive L. fallax at ZSL London Zoo and Jersey Zoo. We subsequently compared the nutritional content of the wild diet and captive diet at ZSL London Zoo consumed by L. fallax. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to directly compare the nutritional content of the wild and captive diets of an anuran amphibian. The captive diet at ZSL London Zoo, without dusting of nutritional supplements, was higher in gross energy and crude fat and lower in ash, calcium and calcium:phosphorus ratio than the wild diet. Most of the food items in the captive diets had a high omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio and in the wild diet had a low omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio. We recommend a combination of modifications to the captive diets to better reflect the nutritional content of the wild diet. Nutritional analysis of captive and wild diets is recommended for other species in conservation breeding programs to improve captive husbandry and ultimately fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Jayson
- Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, United Kingdom.,The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda Ferguson
- Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias Goetz
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Routh
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Tapley
- Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, United Kingdom
| | - Luke Harding
- Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, Paignton, Devon, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jeff Dawson
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, Trinity, Jersey, United Kingdom
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28
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CAUSES OF MORTALITY IN CAPTIVE PANAMANIAN GOLDEN FROGS (ATELOPUS ZETEKI) AT THE MARYLAND ZOO IN BALTIMORE, 2001–2013. J Zoo Wildl Med 2018; 49:324-334. [DOI: 10.1638/2016-0250.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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29
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EVALUATION OF BONE MINERALIZATION BY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN WILD AND CAPTIVE EUROPEAN COMMON SPADEFOOTS (PELOBATES FUSCUS), IN RELATION TO EXPOSURE TO ULTRAVIOLET B RADIATION AND DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:748-756. [DOI: 10.1638/2016-0238.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Massé AJ, Muscatello JR, Hogan NS, Janz DM. Tissue-specific selenium accumulation and toxicity in adult female Xenopus laevis chronically exposed to elevated dietary selenomethionine. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:1047-1055. [PMID: 27666932 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is a developmental toxicant that is also capable of altering the bioenergetic and endocrine status of adult fish. To date, aquatic ecotoxicological research has predominantly focused on the toxic effects of Se in fish, and minimal information has been published related to amphibians. The objective of the present study was to investigate the potential toxicity associated with chronically elevated dietary Se consumption in adult female amphibians utilizing the model species Xenopus laevis. Adult X. laevis females were fed a diet augmented with L-selenomethionine at measured concentrations of 0.7 µg Se/g (control), 10.9 µg Se/g, 30.4 µg Se/g, or 94.2 µg Se/g dry mass for 68 d, after which they were bred with untreated males. Ovary, egg, liver, muscle, and blood samples were collected from female frogs after completion of the exposure period and subsequent breeding to ascertain Se tissue distribution, muscle and liver triglyceride and glycogen levels, and plasma cortisol concentrations. The concentrations of Se measured in female tissues excluding the liver were significantly increased in proportion with dietary intake. No significant differences were observed among treatment groups with respect to biometric indices, energy stores, or stress response of adult female X. laevis after Se exposure, which suggests that this amphibian species is capable of accumulating substantial quantities of this element in their tissues with no adverse effects on fitness. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1047-1055. © 2016 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita J Massé
- Toxicology Graduate Program, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Natacha S Hogan
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - David M Janz
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Edwards CL, Byrne PG, Harlow P, Silla AJ. Dietary Carotenoid Supplementation Enhances the Cutaneous Bacterial Communities of the Critically Endangered Southern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne corroboree). MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2017; 73:435-444. [PMID: 27623966 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-016-0853-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The rapid spread of infectious disease has resulted in the decline of animal populations globally. Amphibians support a diversity of microbial symbionts on their skin surface that help to inhibit pathogen colonisation and reduce disease susceptibility and virulence. These cutaneous microbial communities represent an important component of amphibian immune defence, however, very little is known about the environmental factors that influence the cutaneous microbiome. Here, we characterise the cutaneous bacterial communities of a captive colony of the critically endangered Australian southern corroboree frog, Pseudophyrne corroboree, and examine the effect of dietary carotenoid supplementation on bacterial abundance, species richness and community composition. Individuals receiving a carotenoid-supplemented diet exhibited significantly higher bacterial abundance and species richness as well as an altered bacterial community composition compared to individuals that did not receive dietary carotenoids. Our findings suggest that dietary carotenoid supplementation enhances the cutaneous bacteria community of the southern corroboree frog and regulates the presence of bacteria species within the cutaneous microbiome. Our study is the second to demonstrate that carotenoid supplementation can improve amphibian cutaneous bacterial community dynamics, drawing attention to the possibility that dietary manipulation may assist with the ex situ management of endangered species and improve resilience to lethal pathogens such as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd).
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey L Edwards
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Phillip G Byrne
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Peter Harlow
- Herpetofauna Division, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW, Australia
| | - Aimee J Silla
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
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Gratwicke B, Ross H, Batista A, Chaves G, Crawford AJ, Elizondo L, Estrada A, Evans M, Garelle D, Guerrel J, Hertz A, Hughey M, Jaramillo CA, Klocke B, Mandica M, Medina D, Richards‐Zawacki CL, Ryan MJ, Sosa‐Bartuano A, Voyles J, Walker B, Woodhams DC, Ibáñez R. Evaluating the probability of avoiding disease‐related extinctions of Panamanian amphibians through captive breeding programs. Anim Conserv 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- B. Gratwicke
- Center for Species Survival Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute National Zoological Park Washington DC USA
| | - H. Ross
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
| | - A. Batista
- Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Frankfurt Frankfurt Germany
| | - G. Chaves
- Escuela de Biología Universidad de Costa Rica San José Costa Rica
| | - A. J. Crawford
- Department of Biological Sciences Universidad de los Andes Bogotá Colombia
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
- Círculo Herpetológico de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
| | - L. Elizondo
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias Biológicas Universidad de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
| | - A. Estrada
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
| | - M. Evans
- Reptile Discovery Center Smithsonian's National Zoological Park Washington DC USA
| | - D. Garelle
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Colorado Springs CO USA
| | - J. Guerrel
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
| | - A. Hertz
- Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Frankfurt Frankfurt Germany
- Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity Biologicum Goethe‐University Frankfurt Germany
| | - M. Hughey
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
| | - C. A. Jaramillo
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
- Círculo Herpetológico de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
- Departamento de Histología y Neuroanatomía Humana Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
- Biodiversity Consultant Group Panama Republic of Panama
| | - B. Klocke
- Department of Biology George Mason University Fairfax VA USA
| | - M. Mandica
- Department of Research and Conservation Atlanta Botanical Garden Atlanta GA USA
| | - D. Medina
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
| | - C. L. Richards‐Zawacki
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Tulane University New Orleans LA USA
| | - M. J. Ryan
- Department of Biology and Museum of Southwestern Biology University of New Mexico Albuquerque NM USA
| | | | | | - B. Walker
- Biodiversity Consultant Group Panama Republic of Panama
| | - D. C. Woodhams
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
- Department of Biology University of Massachusetts Boston Boston MA USA
| | - R. Ibáñez
- Círculo Herpetológico de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
- Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Panama Republic of Panama
- Departamento de Zoología Universidad de Panamá Panama Republic of Panama
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Massé AJ, Muscatello JR, Janz DM. Dose-Dependent Early Life Stage Toxicities in Xenopus laevis Exposed In Ovo to Selenium. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:13658-13666. [PMID: 26501870 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b04303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is a developmental toxicant in oviparous vertebrates. The adverse reproductive effects of Se toxicity have been predominantly investigated in fishes and birds with only a few studies focusing on amphibians. The objective of this study was to determine tissue-based toxicity thresholds for early life stage Se toxicities in Xenopus laevis as a consequence of in ovo exposure through maternal transfer of dietary Se. Following a 68-day dietary exposure to food augmented with l-selenomethionine (SeMet) at measured concentrations of 0.7 (control), 10.9, 30.4, or 94.2 μg Se/g dry mass (d.m.), adult female X. laevis were bred with untreated males, and resulting embryos were incubated until 5 days postfertilization (dpf). The measured Se concentrations in eggs were 1.6, 10.8, 28.1, and 81.7 μg Se/g d.m., respectively. No biologically significant effects were observed on fertilization success, hatchability, or mortality in offspring. Frequency and severity of morphological abnormalities were significantly greater in 5 dpf tadpoles from the highest exposure group when compared to the control, with eye lens abnormalities being the most prominent of all abnormalities. The estimated EC10 value for frequency of total early life stage abnormalities was 44.9 μg Se/g egg d.m., which suggests that this amphibian species is less sensitive to in ovo Se exposure than most of the fish species studied to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita J Massé
- Toxicology Graduate Program, University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5B3
| | | | - David M Janz
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5B3
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan , Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5B4
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Finke MD. Complete nutrient content of four species of commercially available feeder insects fed enhanced diets during growth. Zoo Biol 2015; 34:554-64. [PMID: 26366856 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Commercially raised feeder insects used to feed captive insectivores are a good source of many nutrients but are deficient in several key nutrients. Current methods used to supplement insects include dusting and gut-loading. Here, we report on the nutrient composition of four species of commercially raised feeder insects fed a special diet to enhance their nutrient content. Crickets, mealworms, superworms, and waxworms were analyzed for moisture, crude protein, fat, ash, acid detergent fiber, total dietary fiber, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, taurine, carotenoids, inositol, and cholesterol. All four species contained enhanced levels of vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids when compared to previously published data for these species. Crickets, superworms, and mealworms contained β-carotene although using standard conversion factors only crickets and superworms would likely contain sufficient vitamin A activity for most species of insectivores. Waxworms did not contain any detectable β-carotene but did contain zeaxanthin which they likely converted from dietary β-carotene. All four species contained significant amounts of both inositol and cholesterol. Like previous reports all insects were a poor source of calcium and only superworms contained vitamin D above the limit of detection. When compared to the nutrient requirements as established by the NRC for growing rats or poultry, these species were good sources of most other nutrients although the high fat and low moisture content of both waxworms and superworms means when corrected for energy density these two species were deficient in more nutrients than crickets or mealworms. These data show the value of modifying the diet of commercially available insects as they are growing to enhance their nutrient content. They also suggest that for most insectivores properly supplemented lower fat insects such as crickets, or smaller mealworms should form the bulk of the diet.
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Olea-Popelka F, Ferrie GM, Morris C, Pessier AP, Schad K, Stamper MA, Gagliardo R, Koutsos E, Valdes EV. Leaping forward in amphibian health and nutrition. Zoo Biol 2014; 33:586-91. [PMID: 25279727 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The Epidemiology Working Group, a subgroup of the participants of the Disney's Animal Kingdom Workshop on "Ex situ Amphibian Medicine and Nutrition," identified a critical need to design and implement approaches that will facilitate the assessment and evaluation of factors impacting amphibian health. In this manuscript, we describe and summarize the outcomes of this workshop with regards (a) the identified gaps in knowledge, (b) identified priorities for closing these gaps, and (c) compile a list of actions to address these priorities. Four general areas of improvement were identified in relation to how measurements are currently being taken to evaluate ex situ amphibian health: nutrition, infectious diseases, husbandry, and integrated biology including genetics and endocrinology. The proposed actions that will be taken in order to address the identified gaps include: (1) identify and quantify major health issues affecting ex situ amphibian populations, (2) identify and coordinate laboratories to conduct analyses using standardized and validated protocols to measure nutritional, infectious diseases, genetic, and hormonal parameters, (3) determine in situ baseline distribution of parameters related to amphibian health, and (4) establish an inter-disciplinary research approach to target specific hypotheses related to amphibian health such as the effects of population genetics (e.g., relatedness, inbreeding) on disease susceptibility, or how environmental parameters are related to chronic stress and hormone production. We think is important to address current gaps in knowledge regarding amphibian health in order to increase the probability to succeed in addressing the issues faced by in situ and ex situ amphibians populations. We are confident that the recommendations provided in this manuscript will facilitate to address these challenges and could have a positive impact in both the health of in situ and ex situ amphibian populations, worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Olea-Popelka
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
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36
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Pessier AP, Baitchman EJ, Crump P, Wilson B, Griffith E, Ross H. Causes of mortality in anuran amphibians from an ex situ survival assurance colony in Panama. Zoo Biol 2014; 33:516-26. [PMID: 25255888 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The success of ex situ survival assurance populations as tools for amphibian conservation depends on the health and reproductive success of founder populations. Necropsy examination and histopathology of animals that die in assurance populations are useful for the identification of population-limiting disease problems and can help to direct applied research efforts in areas such as amphibian husbandry and nutrition. This study reviewed postmortem findings in 167 frogs from 13 species that died in a large Panamanian rescue and survival assurance population between 2006 and 2011. Common problems identified in long-term captive animals, especially in Atelopus species, were epithelial squamous metaplasia suggestive of vitamin A deficiency and a polycystic nephropathy resembling lesions seen in laboratory animals with electrolyte imbalances. Metabolic bone disease was a significant contributor to morbidity in captive-bred juvenile frogs of Gastrotheca cornuta, Hemiphractus fasciatus, and Hylomantis lemur. Findings common to multiple species included poor overall nutritional condition that was sometimes attributable to maladaptation to captive husbandry and epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis possibly reflecting environmental skin irritation. Infectious diseases and endoparasitism were most common in recently captured animals and included chytridiomycosis and Rhabdias sp. lungworms. Applied research efforts to improve sustainability of survival assurance populations should focus on elucidating optimal husbandry practices for diverse species, improving methods for nutritional supplementation of cultured insects and examination of the role of water composition in disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan P Pessier
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, California
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