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Musa S, Altenburger C, Vázquez RM, Woog F, Mackenstedt U. Parasite airlines: mapping the distribution and transmission of avian blood parasites in migratory birds. Int J Parasitol 2024:S0020-7519(24)00136-X. [PMID: 38942166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
During their journeys, migratory birds encounter a wider range of parasites than residents, transporting them over vast distances. While some parasites are widely distributed, transmission is not inevitable and depends on the presence of competent arthropod vectors as well as parasite compatibility with native bird species. Distinguishing between parasite distribution and transmission areas is crucial for monitoring and assessing risks to native bird species, as distribution areas, with the appropriate conditions, could become potential transmission areas. In this study, blood samples from 455 reed-living birds of the genera Acrocephalus, Locustella, and Emberiza, collected in the nature reserve "Die Reit" in Hamburg, Germany were screened, targeting haemosporidian parasites, trypanosomes, and filarioid nematodes. Determination of migratory bird age was employed to ascertain the transmission area of the detected parasites. Transmission areas were determined, based on information provided by resident and juvenile birds as well as findings in competent vectors. Long-distance migratory birds of the genus Acrocephalus showed a higher prevalence and diversity of blood parasites compared with partially migratory birds such as Emberiza schoeniclus. Notably, an age-dependent difference in parasite prevalence was observed in Acrocephalus spp., but not in E. schoeniclus. Nematodes were absent in all examined bird species. Proposed transmission areas were identified for nine haemosporidian lineages, showing three different types of transmission area, either with limited transmission in Europe or Africa, or active transmission in both regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Musa
- University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Str. 34, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | | | | | - Friederike Woog
- State Museum of Natural History, Rosenstein 1, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ute Mackenstedt
- University of Hohenheim, Emil-Wolff-Str. 34, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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2
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Harl J, Fauchois A, Puech MP, Gey D, Ariey F, Izac B, Weissenböck H, Chakarov N, Iezhova T, Valkiūnas G, Duval L. Novel phylogenetic clade of avian Haemoproteus parasites (Haemosporida, Haemoproteidae) from Accipitridae raptors, with description of a new Haemoproteus species. Parasite 2024; 31:5. [PMID: 38334685 PMCID: PMC10854483 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2023066] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian parasites (order Haemosporida, phylum Apicomplexa) are blood and tissue parasites transmitted by blood-sucking dipteran insects. Three genera (Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) have been most often found in birds, with over 270 species described and named in avian hosts based mainly on the morphological characters of blood stages. A broad diversity of Haemoproteus parasites remains to be identified and characterized morphologically and molecularly, especially those infecting birds of prey, an underrepresented bird group in haemosporidian parasite studies. The aim of this study was to investigate and identify Haemoproteus parasites from a large sample comprising accipitriform raptors of 16 species combining morphological and new molecular protocols targeting the cytb genes of this parasite group. This study provides morphological descriptions and molecular characterizations of two Haemoproteus species, H. multivacuolatus n. sp. and H. nisi Peirce and Marquiss, 1983. Haemoproteus parasites of this group were so far found in accipitriform raptors only and might be classified into a separate subgenus or even genus. Cytb sequences of these parasites diverge by more than 15% from those of all others known avian haemosporidian genera and form a unique phylogenetic clade. This study underlines the importance of developing new diagnostic tools to detect molecularly highly divergent parasites that might be undetectable by commonly used conventional tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna Veterinaerplatz 1 1210 Vienna Austria
| | - Anaïs Fauchois
- Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Microorganismes (MCAM, UMR 7245 CNRS), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, CP 52 57 rue Cuvier 75231 Cedex 05 Paris France
| | - Marie-Pierre Puech
- Hôpital de la faune sauvage des Garrigues et Cévennes – Goupil Connexion 34190 Brissac France
| | - Delphine Gey
- Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Microorganismes (MCAM, UMR 7245 CNRS), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, CP 52 57 rue Cuvier 75231 Cedex 05 Paris France
| | - Frédéric Ariey
- Université de Paris, INSERM 1016, Institut Cochin, Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie Hôpital Cochin Paris France
| | - Brigitte Izac
- Université de Paris, INSERM 1016, Institut Cochin, Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie Hôpital Cochin Paris France
| | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna Veterinaerplatz 1 1210 Vienna Austria
| | - Nayden Chakarov
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University Konsequenz 45 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | | | | | - Linda Duval
- Département Adaptations du Vivant (AVIV), Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Microorganismes (MCAM, UMR 7245 CNRS), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, CP 52 57 rue Cuvier 75231 Cedex 05 Paris France
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Gomes J, Leitão M, Louro MC, Brandão R, Mateus TL. Avian Malaria in wild birds from a wildlife rehabilitation center in Central Portugal. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 43:100904. [PMID: 37451760 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100904] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium) are vector-transmitted protozoan parasites highly prevalent in various bird species. Still, their importance for bird health, species decline, or impact on rehabilitation success is underestimated. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and diversity of haemosporidian parasites after necropsies of seventy wild birds from thirty-four species of twelve taxonomic orders. Detection of avian haemosporidian DNA was evaluated using PCR amplification of the cytochrome b gene. 48.6% of all sampled birds were positive, with 24.3% positive for Plasmodium spp./Haemoproteus spp. and 44.3% for Leucocytozoon spp. Mixed infections corresponded to 20% of all tested birds. Sequencing of several selected samples revealed the infection of Plasmodium matutinum, Plasmodium relictum and different lineages of Leucocytozoon spp. This study provides a baseline description of haemosporidian infections in wild birds from a rehabilitation center in central Portugal. The results show the necessity to test and monitor possible infections that undermine recovery processes for different birds. Further research into the occurrence of these haemosporidian species in birds kept in conservation centers is needed to understand the impact on bird health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinto Gomes
- Escola Superior Agrária de Elvas, Instituto Politécnico de Portalegre, Elvas, Portugal; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal.
| | | | - Mariana Caseiro Louro
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Brandão
- Centre for Ecology, Recovery and Surveillance of Wild Animals (CERVAS), Gouveia, Portugal
| | - Teresa Letra Mateus
- Center for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability (CISAS), Escola Superior Agrária de Ponte de Lima, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Portugal; EpiUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal; Veterinary and Animal Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (Al4Animals), Vila Real, Portugal
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Valkiūnas G, Iezhova TA. Insights into the Biology of Leucocytozoon Species (Haemosporida, Leucocytozoidae): Why Is There Slow Research Progress on Agents of Leucocytozoonosis? Microorganisms 2023; 11:1251. [PMID: 37317225 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood parasites of the genus Leucocytozoon (Leucocytozoidae) only inhabit birds and represent a readily distinct evolutionary branch of the haemosporidians (Haemosporida, Apicomplexa). Some species cause pathology and even severe leucocytozoonosis in avian hosts, including poultry. The diversity of Leucocytozoon pathogens is remarkable, with over 1400 genetic lineages detected, most of which, however, have not been identified to the species level. At most, approximately 45 morphologically distinct species of Leucocytozoon have been described, but only a few have associated molecular data. This is unfortunate because basic information about named and morphologically recognized Leucocytozoon species is essential for a better understanding of phylogenetically closely related leucocytozoids that are known only by DNA sequence. Despite much research on haemosporidian parasites during the past 30 years, there has not been much progress in taxonomy, vectors, patterns of transmission, pathogenicity, and other aspects of the biology of these cosmopolitan bird pathogens. This study reviewed the available basic information on avian Leucocytozoon species, with particular attention to some obstacles that prevent progress to better understanding the biology of leucocytozoids. Major gaps in current Leucocytozoon species research are discussed, and possible approaches are suggested to resolve some issues that have limited practical parasitological studies of these pathogens.
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Svobodová M, Čepička I, Zídková L, Kassahun A, Votýpka J, Peške L, Hrazdilová K, Brzoňová J, Voříšek P, Weidinger K. Blood parasites (Trypanosoma, Leucocytozoon, Haemoproteus) in the Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): diversity, incidence and persistence of infection at the individual level. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:15. [PMID: 36641440 PMCID: PMC9840293 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05623-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high prevalence of parasites may result from life-long persistence of infection or from high reinfection rates. We have studied blood parasites in a breeding population of the accipitrid raptor, Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), to determine parasite diversity and turnover. METHODS During this 7-year study, 210 adult Eurasian sparrowhawks breeding in the city of Prague were checked for parasites using several diagnostic methods. RESULTS In both female and male raptors, parasites of the genus Leucocytozoon were the most prevalent (92% and 85%, respectively) followed in decreasing order of prevalence by those of genus Trypanosoma (74% and 68%, respectively) and genus Haemoproteus (46% and 16%, respectively). The prevalence of all parasites increased with age in both sexes, with the females at each respective age having the higher prevalence. There was a positive association between Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon infections. Persistence at the individual level was higher than incidence for Trypanosoma and Haemoproteus. In the case of Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma, most individuals probably become infected in their first year of life or even before dispersal from the nest. The detected parasites belonged to Trypanosoma avium sensu stricto, Leucocytozoon sp. (haplotypes ACNI1 and ACNI3) and Leucocytozoon mathisi (haplotype ACNI4) and two new lineages of the Haemoproteus elani complex (ACCNIS6 and ACCNIS7). Detailed analysis of parasite lineages in individuals that were repeatedly sampled revealed lineage turnover that would otherwise remain hidden. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the detected Haemoproteus belongs to a phylogenetically distant group whose taxonomic position requires further analysis. CONCLUSIONS All three genera of blood parasites persist in infected individuals, thus enabling sustainability of vector transmission cycles. Prevalence increases with age; however, there is a high turnover of Leucocytozoon lineages. No clear evidence of parasite-induced mortality was found, and most of the individuals were infected early in life, particularly in the case of Leucocytozoon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Svobodová
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ivan Čepička
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Lenka Zídková
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Aysheshm Kassahun
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jan Votýpka
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | | | - Kristýna Hrazdilová
- grid.7112.50000000122191520Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University, Brno, Czechia ,grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XBiomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Plzeň, Czechia
| | - Jana Brzoňová
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petr Voříšek
- grid.475834.9Czech Society for Ornithology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Karel Weidinger
- grid.10979.360000 0001 1245 3953Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Palacký University, Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
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Martín-Maldonado B, Mencía-Gutiérrez A, Andreu-Vázquez C, Fernández R, Pastor-Tiburón N, Alvarado A, Carrero A, Fernández-Novo A, Esperón F, González F. A Four-Year Survey of Hemoparasites from Nocturnal Raptors (Strigiformes) Confirms a Relation between Leucocytozoon and Low Hematocrit and Body Condition Scores of Parasitized Birds. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010054. [PMID: 36669055 PMCID: PMC9865734 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Most hemoparasites hosted by wild birds appear to be harmless, but most of the blood parasite studies in avian wildlife are mainly focused on passerines or migratory species. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of blood parasites in nocturnal raptors (Strigiformes order) and their effect on hematological parameters. A total of 134 blood samples were collected during a four-year period for hematological analysis and hemoparasite detection and quantification by microscopical examination of the samples. Overall, the occurrence of hemoparasites was 35.1%, with Leucocytozoon being the most frequently detected (32.1%), followed by Haemoproteus (11.2%), Trypanosoma and Plasmodium (2.2% each). Among the different bird species, the Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) showed the highest blood parasite positivity (94.7%). In barn owls, the positive birds displayed a lower hematocrit measurement and body condition score than the non-parasitized ones (p = 0.007 and p = 0.005, respectively), especially those parasitized by Leucocytozoon. Moreover, the analysis of the magnitude of this association revealed that the presence of hemoparasites is five times more frequent in barn owls with a 2/5 body condition score. Despite the host-parasite coevolution in Strigiformes, our results show a correlation between the presence of hemoparasites and some health parameters, including blood parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Martín-Maldonado
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Aida Mencía-Gutiérrez
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Cristina Andreu-Vázquez
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Rocío Fernández
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Natalia Pastor-Tiburón
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Alberto Alvarado
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Alicia Carrero
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Aitor Fernández-Novo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Fernando Esperón
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Fernando González
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
- Departmental Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Li Z, Ren XX, Zhao YJ, Yang LT, Duan BF, Hu NY, Zou FC, Zhu XQ, He JJ, Liu QS. First report of haemosporidia and associated risk factors in red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) in China. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:275. [PMID: 35915463 PMCID: PMC9344640 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05389-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Avian haemosporidia infect both domestic and wild birds, causing anemia, acute tissue degeneration, and depopulation in wild birds. Poultry and wild birds have been reported as common reservoirs of haemosporidia, but limited information is available for red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) in China. The present study investigated the prevalence and molecular characterization of haemosporidia in red junglefowl. Methods Blood samples were collected from 234 red junglefowl from Jinghong City of Yunnan Province, and genomic DNA was extracted from these samples. The prevalence of haemosporidia was determined by nested PCR targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) gene. Molecular characterization was investigated based on phylogenetic analysis of cytb sequences, and associated risk factors were analyzed using the Chi-square (χ2) test. Results The overall prevalence of haemosporidia was 74.8% (175/234), and three species were identified, namely Haemoproteus enucleator, Leucocytozoon californicus, and Plasmodium juxtanucleare. The prevalence of haemosporidia in adult fowl (81.1%, 107/132) was significantly higher (χ2 = 6.32, df = 1, P = 0.012) than that in juveniles (66.7%, 68/102). Three novel haemosporidian lineages were revealed. Conclusions This study examined the prevalence and identified species of avian haemosporidians in red junglefowl, providing new information on the molecular epidemiology and geographical distribution of haemosporidian parasites. Our results indicated high prevalence and diverse species distribution of these haemosporidians in red junglefowl. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first record of haemosporidian infection in red junglefowl in China. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Li
- Animal Research and Resource Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, People's Republic of China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province, 030801, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiao-Xia Ren
- Animal Research and Resource Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Yin-Jiao Zhao
- Animal Research and Resource Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Lian-Tao Yang
- Animal Research and Resource Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo-Fang Duan
- Yunnan Province Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, People's Republic of China
| | - Na-Ying Hu
- Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture Technical Extension Station for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Jinghong, Yunnan Province, 666100, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng-Cai Zou
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, People's Republic of China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province, 030801, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jun He
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650201, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qi-Shuai Liu
- Animal Research and Resource Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Center for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650500, People's Republic of China.
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Harl J, Himmel T, Valkiūnas G, Ilgūnas M, Nedorost N, Matt J, Kübber-Heiss A, Alic A, Konicek C, Weissenböck H. Avian haemosporidian parasites of accipitriform raptors. Malar J 2022; 21:14. [PMID: 34986864 PMCID: PMC8729155 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-04019-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The order Accipitriformes comprises the largest group of birds of prey with 260 species in four families. So far, 21 haemosporidian parasite species have been described from or reported to occur in accipitriform birds. Only five of these parasite species have been characterized molecular genetically. The first part of this study involved molecular genetic screening of accipitriform raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina and the first chromogenic in situ hybridization approach targeting parasites in this host group. The aim of the second part of this study was to summarize the CytB sequence data of haemosporidian parasites from accipitriform raptors and to visualize the geographic and host distribution of the lineages. Methods Blood and tissue samples of 183 accipitriform raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina were screened for Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon parasites by nested PCR, and tissue samples of 23 PCR-positive birds were subjected to chromogenic in situ hybridization using genus-specific probes targeting the parasites’ 18S rRNAs. All published CytB sequence data from accipitriform raptors were analysed, phylogenetic trees were calculated, and DNA haplotype network analyses were performed with sequences from clades featuring multiple lineages detected in this host group. Results Of the 183 raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina screened by PCR and sequencing, 80 individuals (44%) were infected with haemosporidian parasites. Among the 39 CytB lineages detected, 18 were found for the first time in the present study. The chromogenic in situ hybridization revealed exo-erythrocytic tissue stages of Leucocytozoon parasites belonging to the Leucocytozoon toddi species group in the kidneys of 14 infected birds. The total number of CytB lineages recorded in accipitriform birds worldwide was 57 for Leucocytozoon, 25 for Plasmodium, and 21 for Haemoproteus. Conclusion The analysis of the DNA haplotype networks allowed identifying numerous distinct groups of lineages, which have not yet been linked to morphospecies, and many of them likely belong to yet undescribed parasite species. Tissue stages of Leucocytozoon parasites developing in accipitriform raptors were discovered and described. The majority of Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus lineages are specific to this host group, but most Plasmodium lineages were found in birds of other orders. This might indicate local transmission from birds kept at the same facilities (raptor rescue centres and zoos), likely resulting in abortive infections. To clarify the taxonomic and systematic problems, combined morphological and molecular genetic analyses on a wider range of accipitriform host species are needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12936-021-04019-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Tanja Himmel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Nora Nedorost
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Matt
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Kübber-Heiss
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amer Alic
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Cornelia Konicek
- Service for Birds and Reptiles, Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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Lertwatcharasarakul P, Salakij C, Prasopsom P, Kasorndorkbua C, Jakthong P, Santavakul M, Suwanasaeng P, Ploypan R. Molecular and Morphological Analyses of Leucocytozoon Parasites (Haemosporida: Leucocytozoidae) in Raptors From Thailand. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1406-1416. [PMID: 34021878 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00403-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leucocytozoon spp. causes a vector-borne disease that is nonpathogenic in domestic and wild birds. To date, there was no report of leucocytozoonosis in raptors from Thailand. METHODS This study was carried out to perform morphological and molecular analyses of Leucocytozoon in 400 raptors at a rehabilitation center at Kasetsart University, Thailand during a 7-year period. The nested PCR was used to amplify the cytochrome b gene of Leucocytozoon with primers HaemNF1 and HaemNR3 as the primary reaction. RESULTS The light microscopic examination revealed Leucocytozoon gametocytes in five raptors; three diurnal raptors [two Crested Goshawks (CGs, Accipiter trivirgatus) and one Eastern Imperial Eagle (EIE, Aquila heliaca)], and two nocturnal raptors (one Oriental Scops-Owl (OSO, Otus sunia,) and one Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus) and two species were identified: Leucocytozoon danilewskyi in both owl species and L. californicus in two CGs. The PCR method revealed more infection rate (2.0%, 8/400) than the light microscopic method including one Barred Eagle-Owl (BEO, Bubo sumatranus), one Brown Hawk Owl (BHO, Ninox scutulata) and one OSO. A phylogeny revealed that sequences from one SEO and one OSO were clustered with L. danilewskyi and the three Leucocytozoon sequences from diurnal raptors were clustered with L. californicus. The other three sequences from a BHO, a BEO and an OSO were ambiguous. CONCLUSION This study combined morphological, morphometric and molecular phylogenetic analyses to identify L. danilewskyi in two species of owls, L. californicus in three diurnal raptors, and unknown species in three other owls, representing the first records of leucocytozoon infection in raptors from Thailand.
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Wiegmann A, Springer A, Rinaud T, Ottensmann M, Legler M, Krüger O, Fehr M, Chakarov N, Strube C. The prevalence of Leucocytozoon spp. in nestlings of three wild raptor species including implications on haematological and blood chemistry values. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 16:236-243. [PMID: 34760619 PMCID: PMC8567326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Leucocytozoonosis is a vector-borne infection of birds, caused by members of the haemosporidian genus Leucocytozoon. The clinical presentation may range from asymptomatic to severe disease. Consequences of Leucocytozoon infection on blood profiles remain to be described, especially for different host species in the wild. In the current study, the prevalence of Leucocytozoon infection was determined in wild nestlings of three European raptor species, the common buzzard (Buteo buteo, n = 464), red kite (Milvus milvus, n = 46) and northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis, n = 18). Among 528 nestlings, 51.9% (n = 274) were infected with Leucocytozoon spp., whereby the highest prevalence was found in common buzzards (54.9%), followed by red kites (32.6%) and northern goshawks (22.2%). For a subset of 87 individuals (50 common buzzards, 29 red kites, 8 northern goshawks), a detailed analysis of differential leukocyte counts and several blood chemistry parameters in response to infection was conducted: AP (alkaline phosphatase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), GLDH (glutamate dehydrogenase), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), GGT (gamma glutamyl transferase), CK (creatine kinase), BuChE (butyrylcholinesterase), BA (bile acids), ALB (albumin) and TP (total protein). Even though in the physiological range, infected nestlings displayed significantly increased levels of heterophils, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, bile acids and butyrylcholinesterase, but decreased lymphocyte and monocyte values compared to uninfected ones. Furthermore, significant species differences with regard to blood parameters, but no sex differences were found. Overall, obtained results show a high prevalence, but a low pathogenicity of Leucocytozoon spp. in wild raptor chicks, presumably resulting from coevolutionary adaptation, but show signatures of infection in the haematological and blood chemistry profiles. Leucocytozoon prevalence in nestlings of three wild raptor species was 52%. Common buzzards (Buteo buteo) showed the highest prevalence (55%). Examined blood parameter values varied with species, age and infection status. Leucocytozoon infections were associated with increased AST and BuChE. Leucocytozoon infections in Accipitridae nestlings seem to be of minor pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Wiegmann
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.,Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tony Rinaud
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Meinolf Ottensmann
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Marko Legler
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Krüger
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Michael Fehr
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nayden Chakarov
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
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Prevalence and molecular identification of Leucocytozoon spp. in fighting cocks (Gallus gallus) in Thailand. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2149-2155. [PMID: 33797609 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07131-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Leucocytozoon has been globally described as avian hosts, and it significantly affects many avian taxa including the fighting cock. The clinical signs of leucocytozoonosis range from asymptomatic to high morbidity leading to increase mortality rates. Interestingly, there are insufficient epidemiological studies of this blood parasite or the molecular identification of infections within the vertebrate host. In this study, 250 blood samples were collected from fighting cocks at 9 districts in Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand. Leucocytozoon infections were screened by blood examination and nested PCR followed by sequence analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was used to identify Leucocytozoon species. Twenty-two out of 250 (8.8%) samples had confirmed Leucocytozoon infections based on microscopic examination whereas with nested-PCR, 52 samples tested positive. Of these 52, 51 were successfully sequenced among which, one was Plasmodium juxtanucleare, 45 were Leucocytozoon sp. (18%) and 5 were L. schoutedeni (2%). This study is the first report to demonstrate the molecular prevalence of leucocytozoonosis in fighting cock in Thailand. This study indicated that leucocytozoonosis is widespread in fighting cock although the frequency was not determined and needs further study.
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Morphological and molecular characterization of avian trypanosomes in raptors from Thailand. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2419-2429. [PMID: 31230161 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06379-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
From September 2012 to May 2018, blood samples from 364 raptors (mostly adults) were collected and screened for trypanosomes and haemosporidians by microscopic examination and nested polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Trypanosoma spp. were identified in 15 birds from eight different species. Light microscopy revealed 14 cases of infection with Trypanosoma cf. corvi, including one each in black-shouldered kite (Elanus caeruleus, n = 49), Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus, n = 50), and spotted owlet (SO, Athene brama, n = 27); two mountain hawk-eagles (Spizaetus nipalensis, n = 3); and three each in Asian barred owlets (ABO, Glaucidium cuculoides, n = 27), barn owls (BO, Tyto alba, n = 65) and collared scops owls (CSO, Otus lettia, n = 41). In addition, one case of infection with T. avium was identified in an oriental scops owl (OSO, Otus sunia, n = 2). All infected raptors showed very low parasitemia levels. The PCR detected more three positives in one CSO, one Japanese sparrowhawk (Accipiter gularis), and one OSO. The sensitivity and specificity of the PCR method were 93.3% and 99.1%, respectively. The overall infection rate was very low (4.9%). The highest infection rate was recorded in cold-dry season (9.9%). Coinfection of Plasmodium with trypanosomes was found in all three ABOs. Coinfection with Haemoproteus spp. was found in one BO, three CSOs, and one SO. Coinfection with Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon danilewskyi was found in the OSO. Microfilarias were detected in one ABO and one CSO. The ultrastructure of trypomastigotes of T. cf. corvi in an ABO revealed fine structures. All small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) sequences belong to two clades: T. avium and T. corvi-culicavium complex/group. SSU rRNA gene amplification was not successful in one BO. The raptors with trypanosome infections showed normal hematological values and healthy appearance. Furthermore, this is the first report of T. avium in a nocturnal raptor from Thailand.
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Gangoso L, Gutiérrez-López R, Martínez-de la Puente J, Figuerola J. Louse flies of Eleonora's falcons that also feed on their prey are evolutionary dead-end hosts for blood parasites. Mol Ecol 2019; 28:1812-1825. [PMID: 30710395 PMCID: PMC6850589 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Host shifts are widespread among avian haemosporidians, although the success of transmission depends upon parasite‐host and parasite‐vector compatibility. Insular avifaunas are typically characterized by a low prevalence and diversity of haemosporidians, although the underlying ecological and evolutionary processes remain unclear. We investigated the parasite transmission network in an insular system formed by Eleonora's falcons (the avian host), louse flies that parasitize the falcons (the potential vector), and haemosporidians (the parasites). We found a great diversity of parasites in louse flies (16 Haemoproteus and 6 Plasmodium lineages) that did not match with lineages previously found infecting adult falcons (only one shared lineage). Because Eleonora's falcon feeds on migratory passerines hunted over the ocean, we sampled falcon kills in search of the origin of parasites found in louse flies. Surprisingly, louse flies shared 10 of the 18 different parasite lineages infecting falcon kills. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that all lineages found in louse flies (including five new lineages) corresponded to Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites infecting Passeriformes. We found molecular evidence of louse flies feeding on passerines hunted by falcons. The lack of infection in nestlings and the mismatch between the lineages isolated in adult falcons and louse flies suggest that despite louse flies’ contact with a diverse array of parasites, no successful transmission to Eleonora's falcon occurs. This could be due to the falcons’ resistance to infection, the inability of parasites to develop in these phylogenetically distant species, or the inability of haemosporidian lineages to complete their development in louse flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gangoso
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Wetland Ecology, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain
| | | | - Josué Martínez-de la Puente
- Department of Wetland Ecology, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Figuerola
- Department of Wetland Ecology, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Rassouli M, Aghazamani G, Ardekani AO. Leucocytozoon spp. infection in Accipitriformes birds in Iran. J Parasit Dis 2016; 41:703-706. [PMID: 28848263 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-016-0870-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucocytozoon spp. (Haemosporida, Leucocytozoidae) are vector-borne parasites of various birds. Leucocytozoon can infect different reticuloendothelial tissues and blood cells of birds. In this study peripheral blood samples were collected from Accipitriformes birds [three marsh harriers (Circus aeruginosus) and one tawny eagle (Aquila rapax)] in one birds' garden in Iran. Blood films were observed for identification of hemoparasites. All samples were infected by different Leucocytozoon species. All of the observed species were first reported in Iran in Accipitriformes birds which one of them was described as a new species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Rassouli
- Pathobiology Department of Shahmirzad School of Veterinary Medicine and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Semnan University, Valie Asr area, Shahmirzad, Semnan, Semnan Province 35718-95589 Iran
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Ciloglu A, Yildirim A, Duzlu O, Onder Z, Dogan Z, Inci A. Investigation of avian haemosporidian parasites from raptor birds in Turkey, with molecular characterisation and microscopic confirmation. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2016; 63. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2016.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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