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Howell E, White A, Lurz PWW, Boots M. Immune interactions and heterogeneity in transmission drives the pathogen-mediated invasion of grey squirrels in the UK. J Anim Ecol 2024; 93:663-675. [PMID: 38494654 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.14074] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Mathematical models highlighted the importance of pathogen-mediated invasion, with the replacement of red squirrels by squirrelpox virus (SQPV) carrying grey squirrels in the UK, a well-known example. In this study, we combine new epidemiological models, with a range of infection characteristics, with recent longitudinal field and experimental studies on the SQPV dynamics in red and grey squirrel populations to better infer the mechanistic basis of the disease interaction. A key finding is that a model with either partial immunity or waning immunity and reinfection, where individuals become seropositive on the second exposure to infection, that up to now has been shown in experimental data only, can capture the key aspects of the field study observations. By fitting to SQPV epidemic observations in isolated red squirrel populations, we can infer that SQPV transmission between red squirrels is significantly (4×) higher than the transmission between grey squirrels and as a result our model shows that disease-mediated replacement of red squirrels by greys is considerably more rapid than replacement in the absence of SQPV. Our findings recover the key results of the previous model studies, which highlights the value of simple strategic models that are appropriate when there are limited data, but also emphasise the likely complexity of immune interactions in wildlife disease and how models can help infer disease processes from field data.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Howell
- Department of Mathematics and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A White
- Department of Mathematics and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - P W W Lurz
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, UK
| | - M Boots
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Biosciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall, UK
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López J, Mogedas M, Ballesteros C, Martín-Maldonado B, Sacristán I, García R, Ortiz JC, Esperón F. Infectious agents present in monk parakeet ( Myiopsitta monachus) and rose-ringed parakeet ( Psittacula krameri) invasive species in the parks of Madrid and Seville, Spain. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1162402. [PMID: 37609055 PMCID: PMC10441216 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1162402] [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: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The introduction of invasive species into an ecosystem could result in biodiversity loss and the spread of infectious agents that could cause re-emergent or emergent zoonotic diseases. Monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) and rose-ringed parakeets (Psittacula krameri) are considered widespread invasive exotic species in urban habitats from the Iberian Peninsula. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of relevant infectious agents in wild parakeets captured in urban parks in Madrid and Seville (Spain). Methods A total of 81 cloacal samples were collected and analysed using molecular techniques. Results The prevalence of infectious agents varied between parakeet species: 9.5% of monk parakeets and 15% of rose-ringed parakeets were positive for enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), 13.3% of rose-ringed parakeets for avian influenza virus (AIV), 3.3% of rose-ringed parakeets for Newcastle disease virus (NDV), and a 23.8% of monk parakeets for Chlamydia psittaci. Discussion All C. psittaci-identified isolates were classified as B, E, or E/B genotypes, indicating transmission from wild urban pigeons to parakeets. These results highlight the need for monitoring parakeet populations due to the implications for human and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan López
- Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio Avenida de la Universidad 1, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Consultoría para la Recuperación y Ordenación de la Fauna y su Ambiente S. L. (SCROFA), Madrid, Spain
| | - María Mogedas
- Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio Avenida de la Universidad 1, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Ballesteros
- Servicio de Consultoría para la Recuperación y Ordenación de la Fauna y su Ambiente S. L. (SCROFA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Bárbara Martín-Maldonado
- Servicio de Consultoría para la Recuperación y Ordenación de la Fauna y su Ambiente S. L. (SCROFA), Madrid, Spain
- Veterinary Department, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Sacristán
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (SIC-INIA), Valdeolmos, Spain
| | - Raúl García
- Servicio de Consultoría para la Recuperación y Ordenación de la Fauna y su Ambiente S. L. (SCROFA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Ortiz
- Departamento de Fauna y Biodiversidad, Área de Gobierno de Medio Ambiente, Ayuntamiento de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Esperón
- Veterinary Department, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
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Wauters LA, Lurz PWW, Santicchia F, Romeo C, Ferrari N, Martinoli A, Gurnell J. Interactions between native and invasive species: A systematic review of the red squirrel-gray squirrel paradigm. Front Ecol Evol 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2023.1083008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) has been labeled as one of the 100 worst invasive alien species by the IUCN. In Europe, the species has been introduced to Britain, Ireland and Italy, and its subsequent spread has resulted in wide-scale extinction of native Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) from the areas colonized by the gray squirrel. This replacement of a native by an alien competitor is one of the best documented cases of the devastating effects of biological invasions on native fauna. To understand how this replacement occurs, we present a systematic review of the literature on competition and interactions between red and gray squirrels. We describe the patterns of red and gray squirrel distribution in those parts of Europe where gray squirrels occur and summarize the evidence on the different processes and mechanisms determining the outcome of competition between the native and alien species including the influence of predators and pathogens. Some of the drivers behind the demise of the red squirrel have been intensively studied and documented in the past 30 years, but recent field studies and mathematical models revealed that the mechanisms underlying the red-gray paradigm are more complex than previously thought and affected by landscape-level processes. Therefore, we consider habitat type and multi-species interactions, including host-parasite and predator-prey relationships, to determine the outcome of the interaction between the two species and to better address gray squirrel control efforts.
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Cruciani D, Crotti S, Paoloni D, La Morgia V, Felici A, Papa P, Cosseddu GM, Moscati L, Gobbi P. Health Status of the Eastern Grey Squirrel ( Sciurus carolinensis) Population in Umbria: Results of the LIFE Project 'U-SAVEREDS'. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202741. [PMID: 36290127 PMCID: PMC9597752 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202741] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Invasive alien species are non-native species introduced deliberately or unintentionally beyond their past or present natural distribution, and their introduction and spread threatens local biological diversity. The Eastern grey squirrel is native to North America and was introduced to the British Islands, Italy, and South Africa. Around the year 2000, a new population of grey squirrels was recorded in Perugia, central Italy, where the species populated an area of approximately 50 km2, both in woodland and urban areas. The Eastern grey squirrel represents a huge threat to the conservation of the native Eurasian red squirrel when the two species coexist. Moreover, given their confident behaviour with humans, the non-native squirrels can negatively impact public health. The U-SAVEREDS Project was set up for Eurasian red squirrel conservation in Umbria through the eradication of the alien species and it also provided information on the health status of the Eastern grey squirrel to identify any infectious agents. The recovery of zoonotic pathogens allowed to assess the Eastern grey squirrel’s impact on human and domestic and wild animals’ health, provide helpful feedback for the management and eradication procedures, and raise public awareness through environmental education. Abstract The introduction of the Eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in Europe is one of the best-known cases of invasive alien species (IAS) colonisation, that poses a severe risk to the conservation of biodiversity. In 2003, it was released in a private wildlife park near the city of Perugia (Italy), where it is replacing the native Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). The LIFE13 BIO/IT/000204 Project (U-SAVEREDS) was set up for the Sciurus vulgaris conservation in Umbria through an eradication campaign of grey squirrels. One hundred and fifty-four animals were analysed for bacteriological, mycological, virological, and serological investigations (C4 action). Sanitary screening showed that Sciurus carolinensis is a dermatophyte carrier, and therefore, it could cause public health issues for humans, considering its confident behaviour. Moreover, it has been marginally responsible for the spreading of Candida albicans, Coxiella burnetii, and Borrelia lusitaniae. Health status evaluation conducted on the Sciurus carolinensis population indicated that it is necessary to raise awareness of its impacts on biodiversity and human health. Moreover, the health status and behaviours of the IAS must be considered when control or eradication campaigns are planned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Cruciani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Silvia Crotti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Valentina La Morgia
- Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati 48, 00144 Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Felici
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Papa
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Gian Mario Cosseddu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri” (IZSLT), Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Roma, Italy
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Abruzzo e Molise “G. Caporale” (IZSAM), Campo Boario, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Livia Moscati
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Gobbi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
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Cartuyvels E, Adriaens T, Baert K, Huysentruyt F, Van Den Berge K. Prevalence of Fox Tapeworm in Invasive Muskrats in Flanders (North Belgium). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:879. [PMID: 35405868 PMCID: PMC8997082 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
One way in which invasive alien species affect their environment is by acting as pathogen hosts. Pathogens limited by the availability of the native host species can profit from the presence of additional hosts. The muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) is known to act as an intermediate host for the fox tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis). From 2009 to 2017, 15,402 muskrats caught in Flanders and across the border with Wallonia and France were collected and dissected with the aim of understanding the prevalence of this parasite in muskrats. Visual examination of the livers revealed 202 infected animals (1.31%). Out of the 9421 animals caught in Flanders, we found 82 individuals (0.87%) infected with E. multilocularis. No increase in prevalence was observed during this study. All of the infected animals in Flanders were found in municipalities along the Walloon border. We did not observe a northward spread of E. multilocularis infection from Wallonia to Flanders. We hypothesise that the low prevalence is the result of the reduced availability of intermediate hosts and the successful control programme which is keeping muskrat densities in the centre of the region at low levels and is preventing influx from other areas. Our results illustrate that muskrats are good sentinels for E. multilocularis and regular screening can gain valuable insight into the spread of this zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Cartuyvels
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Wildlife Management and Invasive Species, Havenlaan 88, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (T.A.); (K.B.); (F.H.); (K.V.D.B.)
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A Peek into the Bacterial Microbiome of the Eurasian Red Squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050666. [PMID: 35268234 PMCID: PMC8909207 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sciurus vulgaris (the Eurasian red squirrel) is native to Europe and Asia, but due to habitat destruction or fragmentation, interspecific competition, and infectious diseases, especially in European island areas the species finds itself at the brink of extinction. The repopulation of such bare habitats requires healthy squirrel specimens, either translocated from other wild habitats or reintroduced to the wilderness following captive breeding. Captivity, nonetheless, has shown an immense capacity to reshape the structure of wild species’ microbiota, adapting it to the less diverse diet and fewer environmental challenges. Therefore, assessing the differences between “wild” and “captive” microbiota in this species could elucidate if special living conditions are needed in order to augment the survival rate of specimens reintroduced into the wild. Furthermore, the microflora profile of the normal flora of healthy red squirrels raised in captivity could support clinicians in addressing infectious diseases episodes and also raise awareness on the zoonotic risk. Hence, this study aimed at documenting the bacterial species carried by S. vulgaris, disclosing overall similarities and variability patterns of the microbiota identified in individuals from two different living environments. We anticipated that the bacterial community would be less diverse in individuals raised in captivity, owing to their restrictive diet and to unchanging conditions in the enclosure. We also hypothesized that there would be a higher prevalence of zoonotic microorganisms in the captive animals, due to the proximity of humans and of other domestic species. To test this, samples (n = 100) were taken from five body regions of 20 red squirrels, both free-ranging and bred in captivity, processed by classical microbiology techniques, and further identified by biochemical assay (VITEK®2 Compact System). A relatively poor bacterial community, comprising 62 bacterial strains belonging to 18 species and 8 different genera, was identified. Most of these microorganisms were reported for the first time in S. vulgaris. With no discrimination between living environments, the highest prevalence (p < 0.001), was registered in Staphylococcus sciuri (60%; 12/20), followed by Escherichia coli (45%; 9/20) and Bacillus cereus (35%; 7/20). The results suggest unremarkable differences in diversity and richness of the resident aerobic microbiota of S. vulgaris, in relation to the living environment.
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Shuttleworth CM, Everest D, Holmes P, Bell S, Cripps R. An Opportunistic Assessment of the Impact of Squirrelpox Disease Outbreaks upon a Red Squirrel Population Sympatric with Grey Squirrels in Wales. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12010099. [PMID: 35011205 PMCID: PMC8749610 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010099] [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: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In Europe, squirrelpox virus is carried by non-native grey squirrels and spread into native red squirrel populations. The virus causes a large proportion of infected red squirrels to die and contributes to local declines and the replacement by grey squirrels. There are relatively few published studies quantifying the impact of disease amongst red squirrels. We present findings from a short-term study in north Wales, United Kingdom. Abstract Native red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) persisted in the coastal mainland woodlands of northern Gwynedd whilst sympatric with an invasive grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) population suppressed by culling. Squirrelpox disease in the red squirrel population was recorded in 2017 and 2020/21. An autumn 2020 outbreak was associated with only 17.4% of animals caught and marked in the preceding June known to be present in March 2021. Despite an opportunistic data collection lacking the rigour of empirical experimental design, we observed low local survival rates similar to previously published accounts reported during major squirrelpox outbreaks. The use of a conservation dog to detect red squirrel carcasses resulted in positive detection and confirmation of a temporal and spatial expansion of one disease outbreak. The study is the first in Wales to use conservation dogs and the findings reinforce the vital strategic importance of geographical isolation reducing sympatry of red with grey squirrels in European regions where the introduced congener is a source of the squirrelpox infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paul Holmes
- APHA Shrewsbury, Veterinary Investigation Centre, Shrewsbury SY1 4HD, UK; (P.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Suzi Bell
- APHA Shrewsbury, Veterinary Investigation Centre, Shrewsbury SY1 4HD, UK; (P.H.); (S.B.)
| | - Rachel Cripps
- Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Bamber Bridge PR5 6BY, UK;
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Roberts MG, Heesterbeek JAP. Infection dynamics in ecosystems: on the interaction between red and grey squirrels, pox virus, pine martens and trees. J R Soc Interface 2021; 18:20210551. [PMID: 34637641 PMCID: PMC8513127 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2021.0551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecological and epidemiological processes and interactions influence each other, positively and negatively, directly and indirectly. The invasion potential of pathogens is influenced by the ecosystem context of their host species' populations. This extends to the capacity of (multiple) host species to maintain their (common) pathogen and the way pathogen dynamics are influenced by changes in ecosystem composition. This paper exemplifies these interactions and consequences in a study of red and grey squirrel dynamics in the UK. Differences and changes in background habitat and trophic levels above and below the squirrel species lead to different dynamic behaviour in many subtle ways. The range of outcomes of the different interactions shows that one has to be careful when drawing conclusions about the mechanisms and processes involved in explaining observed phenomena concerning pathogens in their natural environment. The dynamic behaviour also shows that planning interventions, for example for conservation purposes, benefits from understanding the complexity of interactions beyond the particular pathogen and its threatened host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Roberts
- School of Natural and Computational Sciences, New Zealand Institute for Advanced Study and the Infectious Disease Research Centre, Massey University, Private Bag 102 904, North Shore Mail Centre, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J A P Heesterbeek
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 7, Utrecht 3584 CL, The Netherlands
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Luu L, Palomar AM, Farrington G, Schilling AK, Premchand-Branker S, McGarry J, Makepeace BL, Meredith A, Bell-Sakyi L. Bacterial Pathogens and Symbionts Harboured by Ixodes ricinus Ticks Parasitising Red Squirrels in the United Kingdom. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040458. [PMID: 33920445 PMCID: PMC8070177 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) are native to most of Eurasia; in much of the United Kingdom, they have been supplanted by the non-native grey squirrel, and are considered an endangered species. Very little is known about the range of tick-borne pathogens to which UK red squirrels are exposed. As part of trap-and-release surveys examining prevalence of Mycobacterium spp. in red squirrel populations on two UK islands, Ixodes ricinus ticks were removed from squirrels and PCR screened for Borrelia spp., intracellular arthropod-borne bacteria and the parasitic wasp Ixodiphagus hookeri. At both sites, the most commonly encountered tick-transmitted bacterium was Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (overall minimum prevalence 12.7%), followed by Anaplasma phagocytophilum (overall minimum prevalence 1.6%). Single ticks infected with Spiroplasma were found at both sites, and single ticks infected with Borrelia miyamotoi or an Ehrlichia sp. at one site. Ticks harbouring Wolbachia (overall minimum prevalence 15.2%) were all positive for I. hookeri. Our study shows that UK red squirrels are potentially exposed to a variety of bacterial pathogens via feeding ticks. The effects on the health and survival of this already vulnerable wildlife species are unknown, and further studies are needed to evaluate the threat posed to red squirrels by Borrelia and other tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Luu
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Ana M. Palomar
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, 26006 Logroño, Spain;
| | - Gemma Farrington
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Anna-Katarina Schilling
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK; (A.-K.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Shonnette Premchand-Branker
- Department of Biology, University of York, Wentworth Way, York YO10 5DD, UK;
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Surrey GU24 0NF, UK
| | - John McGarry
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Benjamin L. Makepeace
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Anna Meredith
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK; (A.-K.S.); (A.M.)
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Lesley Bell-Sakyi
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Surrey GU24 0NF, UK
- Correspondence:
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Comments on: What should you do with an orphaned baby grey squirrel? IN PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/inp.m3866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Sainsbury AW, Chantrey J, Ewen JG, Gurnell J, Hudson P, Karesh WB, Kock RA, Lurz PWW, Meredith A, Tompkins DM. Implications of squirrelpox virus for successful red squirrel translocations within mainland
UK. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julian Chantrey
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - John G. Ewen
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London Regent's Park, London UK
- IUCN SSC Conservation Translocation Specialist Group UK
| | | | - Peter Hudson
- Nelson Mandela African Institute—Arusha, A co‐hire of The Huck Institutes & The Institutes of Energy & The Environment Penn State University Pennsylvania USA
| | - William B. Karesh
- IUCN SSC Wildlife Health Specialist Group Chair, EcoHealth Alliance New York New York USA
| | | | - Peter W. W. Lurz
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh Roslin, Midlothian UK
| | - Anna Meredith
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh Roslin, Midlothian UK
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne Parkville VIC Australia
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Search for polyoma-, herpes-, and bornaviruses in squirrels of the family Sciuridae. Virol J 2020; 17:42. [PMID: 32220234 PMCID: PMC7099801 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-020-01310-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Squirrels (family Sciuridae) are globally distributed members of the order Rodentia with wildlife occurrence in indigenous and non-indigenous regions (as invasive species) and frequent presence in zoological gardens and other holdings. Multiple species introductions, strong inter-species competition as well as the recent discovery of a novel zoonotic bornavirus resulted in increased research interest on squirrel pathogens. Therefore we aimed to test a variety of squirrel species for representatives of three virus families. METHODS Several species of the squirrel subfamilies Sciurinae, Callosciurinae and Xerinae were tested for the presence of polyomaviruses (PyVs; family Polyomaviridae) and herpesviruses (HVs; family Herpesviridae), using generic nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specificity for the PyV VP1 gene and the HV DNA polymerase (DPOL) gene, respectively. Selected animals were tested for the presence of bornaviruses (family Bornaviridae), using both a broad-range orthobornavirus- and a variegated squirrel bornavirus 1 (VSBV-1)-specific reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). RESULTS In addition to previously detected bornavirus RNA-positive squirrels no more animals tested positive in this study, but four novel PyVs, four novel betaherpesviruses (BHVs) and six novel gammaherpesviruses (GHVs) were identified. For three PyVs, complete genomes could be amplified with long-distance PCR (LD-PCR). Splice sites of the PyV genomes were predicted in silico for large T antigen, small T antigen, and VP2 coding sequences, and experimentally confirmed in Vero and NIH/3T3 cells. Attempts to extend the HV DPOL sequences in upstream direction resulted in contiguous sequences of around 3.3 kilobase pairs for one BHV and two GHVs. Phylogenetic analysis allocated the novel squirrel PyVs to the genera Alpha- and Betapolyomavirus, the BHVs to the genus Muromegalovirus, and the GHVs to the genera Rhadinovirus and Macavirus. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report on molecular identification and sequence characterization of PyVs and HVs and the detection of bornavirus coinfections with PyVs or HVs in two squirrel species. Multiple detection of PyVs and HVs in certain squirrel species exclusively indicate their potential host association to a single squirrel species. The novel PyVs and HVs might serve for a better understanding of virus evolution in invading host species in the future.
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Chantrey J, Dale T, Jones D, Begon M, Fenton A. The drivers of squirrelpox virus dynamics in its grey squirrel reservoir host. Epidemics 2019; 28:100352. [PMID: 31327730 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2019.100352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Many pathogens of conservation concern circulate endemically within natural wildlife reservoir hosts and it is imperative to understand the individual and ecological drivers of natural transmission dynamics, if any threat to a related endangered species is to be assessed. Our study highlights the key drivers of infection and shedding dynamics of squirrelpox virus (SQPV) in its reservoir grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) population. To clarify SQPV dynamics in this population, longitudinal data from a 16-month mark-recapture study were analysed, combining serology with real-time quantitative PCR to identify periods of acute viraemia and chronic viral shedding. At the population level, we found SQPV infection prevalence, viral load and shedding varied seasonally, peaking in autumn and early spring. Individually, SQPV was shown to be a chronic infection in >80% of grey squirrels, with viral loads persisting over time and bouts of potential recrudescence or reinfection occurring. A key recurring factor significantly associated with SQPV infection risk was the presence of co-infecting squirrel adenovirus (ADV). In dual infected squirrels, longitudinal analysis showed that prior ADV viraemia increased the subsequent SQPV load in the blood. However, there was a strong, negative association between prior ADV viraemia and subsequent SQPV shedding from the forearm, probably caused by ADV prolonging the SQPV acute viraemic phase, so delaying onset of the chronic shedding phase, and thereby altering viral shedding patterns over the time scales examined here. Hence, co-circulating ADV infection may be involved in mediating both the quantitative levels of SQPV infection and the timing and degree of subsequent infectiousness of grey squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Chantrey
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK; Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, UK.
| | - Timothy Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - David Jones
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Michael Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Andy Fenton
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
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14
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Kirk D, Shea D, Start D. Host traits and competitive ability jointly structure disease dynamics and community assembly. J Anim Ecol 2019; 88:1379-1391. [PMID: 31120552 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Parasitism and competition are both ubiquitous interactions in ecological communities. The ability of host species to interact directly via competition and indirectly through shared parasites suggests that host traits related to competition and parasitism are likely important in structuring communities and disease dynamics. Specifically, those host traits affecting competition and those mediating parasitism are often correlated either because of trade-offs (in resource acquisition or resource allocation) or condition dependence, yet the consequences of these trait relationships for community and epidemiological dynamics are poorly understood. We conducted a literature review of parasite-related host traits-competitive ability relationships. We found that transmission-competitive ability relationships were most often reported, and that superior competitors exhibited elevated transmission relative to their less-competitive counterparts in nearly 80% of the cases. We also found a significant number of virulence-competitive ability and parasite shedding-competitive ability relationships. We investigated these links by altering the relationship between host competitive ability and three parasite-related traits (transmission, virulence and parasite shedding rates) in a simple model, incorporating competitive asymmetries in a multi-host community. We show that these relationships can lead to a range of different communities. For example, depending on the strength and direction of these distinct trait relationships, we observed communities with anywhere from high parasite prevalence to complete parasite extinction, and either one, two or the maximum of three host species coexisting. Our results suggest that parasite-competitive ability relationships may be common in nature, that further integration of these relationships can produce novel and unexpected community and disease dynamics, and that generalizations may allow for the prediction of how parasitism and competition jointly structure disease and diversity in natural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Kirk
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dylan Shea
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Denon Start
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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15
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Sainsbury AW, Cunningham AA, Gurnell J, Lurz PWW, McInnes C. Releasing grey squirrels into the wild. Vet Rec 2019; 184:714. [PMID: 31175251 DOI: 10.1136/vr.l4053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - John Gurnell
- Emeritus Professor, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, Bethnal Green, London E1 4NS
| | - Peter W W Lurz
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG
| | - Colin McInnes
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH26 OPZ
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16
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Kelt DA, Heske EJ, Lambin X, Oli MK, Orrock JL, Ozgul A, Pauli JN, Prugh LR, Sollmann R, Sommer S. Advances in population ecology and species interactions in mammals. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe study of mammals has promoted the development and testing of many ideas in contemporary ecology. Here we address recent developments in foraging and habitat selection, source–sink dynamics, competition (both within and between species), population cycles, predation (including apparent competition), mutualism, and biological invasions. Because mammals are appealing to the public, ecological insight gleaned from the study of mammals has disproportionate potential in educating the public about ecological principles and their application to wise management. Mammals have been central to many computational and statistical developments in recent years, including refinements to traditional approaches and metrics (e.g., capture-recapture) as well as advancements of novel and developing fields (e.g., spatial capture-recapture, occupancy modeling, integrated population models). The study of mammals also poses challenges in terms of fully characterizing dynamics in natural conditions. Ongoing climate change threatens to affect global ecosystems, and mammals provide visible and charismatic subjects for research on local and regional effects of such change as well as predictive modeling of the long-term effects on ecosystem function and stability. Although much remains to be done, the population ecology of mammals continues to be a vibrant and rapidly developing field. We anticipate that the next quarter century will prove as exciting and productive for the study of mammals as has the recent one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Kelt
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Edward J Heske
- Museum of Southwestern Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Xavier Lambin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Madan K Oli
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - John L Orrock
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Arpat Ozgul
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan N Pauli
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Laura R Prugh
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rahel Sollmann
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Stefan Sommer
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Blackett TA, Simpson VR, Haugland S, Everest DJ, Muir CF, Smith KC, Mill AC. Mortalities, amyloidosis and other diseases in free-living red squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris) on Jersey, Channel Islands. Vet Rec 2018; 183:503. [PMID: 30181130 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Between 2007 and 2014, 337 free-living red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) on Jersey, Channel Islands, were examined post mortem as part of a mortality and disease surveillance scheme. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) were attributable for 50.7 per cent (171/337) of the casualties, 34.4 per cent (116/337) succumbed to diseases including fatal exudative dermatitis (FED), 7.1 per cent (24/337) to predation, 6.5 per cent (22/337) to other trauma and 1.2 per cent (4/337) to suspected poisoning. Cat predation accounted for 5 per cent (17/337) of mortalities. Pathologies were diverse and individual animals were often identified with more than one disease process. Squirrelpox virus (SQPV) particles were not detected in selected cases examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Amyloid was identified in 19.3 per cent (65/337) of squirrels, often in conjunction with inflammatory lesions like hepatic capillariasis. A consistent cause of amyloid accumulation was not identified, although there was a significant association of amyloidosis with hepatic capillariasis and FED. In addition to RTAs, amyloidosis and FED have been identified as important causes of squirrel morbidity and mortality on Jersey, while the underlying aetiology and predisposing factors for these two disease complexes are presently unclear. Disease, fragmented woodlands, an increasingly suburban habitat, along with various anthropogenic factors, may jeopardise the long-term viability of this island red squirrel population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Clare F Muir
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Kenneth C Smith
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Aileen C Mill
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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18
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Romeo C, McInnes CJ, Dale TD, Shuttleworth C, Bertolino S, Wauters LA, Ferrari N. Disease, invasions and conservation: no evidence of squirrelpox virus in grey squirrels introduced to Italy. Anim Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Romeo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | | | - T. D. Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - C. Shuttleworth
- School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography Bangor University Bangor Gwynedd UK
| | - S. Bertolino
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology Università degli Studi di Torino Torino Italy
| | - L. A. Wauters
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences Università degli Studi dell'Insubria Varese Italy
| | - N. Ferrari
- Department of Veterinary Medicine Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
- Centro di Ricerca Coordinata Epidemiologia e Sorveglianza Molecolare delle Infezioni Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
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19
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Wibbelt G, Tausch SH, Dabrowski PW, Kershaw O, Nitsche A, Schrick L. Berlin Squirrelpox Virus, a New Poxvirus in Red Squirrels, Berlin, Germany. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 23:1726-1729. [PMID: 28930029 PMCID: PMC5621524 DOI: 10.3201/eid2310.171008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Near Berlin, Germany, several juvenile red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) were found with moist, crusty skin lesions. Histology, electron microscopy, and cell culture isolation revealed an orthopoxvirus-like infection. Subsequent PCR and genome analysis identified a new poxvirus (Berlin squirrelpox virus) that could not be assigned to any known poxvirus genera.
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20
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McGowan N, Scantlebury D, McInnes C, Reid N. Squirrelpox virus antibodies detected in red squirrels. Vet Rec 2018; 182:355. [PMID: 29572422 DOI: 10.1136/vr.k1296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha McGowan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL
| | - David Scantlebury
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL.,Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), 13 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AF
| | - Colin McInnes
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Midlothian EH26 0PZ
| | - Neil Reid
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL.,Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), 13 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AF
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21
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Millins C, Gilbert L, Medlock J, Hansford K, Thompson DB, Biek R. Effects of conservation management of landscapes and vertebrate communities on Lyme borreliosis risk in the United Kingdom. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 372:rstb.2016.0123. [PMID: 28438912 PMCID: PMC5413871 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Landscape change and altered host abundance are major drivers of zoonotic pathogen emergence. Conservation and biodiversity management of landscapes and vertebrate communities can have secondary effects on vector-borne pathogen transmission that are important to assess. Here we review the potential implications of these activities on the risk of Lyme borreliosis in the United Kingdom. Conservation management activities include woodland expansion, management and restoration, deer management, urban greening and the release and culling of non-native species. Available evidence suggests that increasing woodland extent, implementing biodiversity policies that encourage ecotonal habitat and urban greening can increase the risk of Lyme borreliosis by increasing suitable habitat for hosts and the tick vectors. However, this can depend on whether deer population management is carried out as part of these conservation activities. Exclusion fencing or culling deer to low densities can decrease tick abundance and Lyme borreliosis risk. As management actions often constitute large-scale perturbation experiments, these hold great potential to understand underlying drivers of tick and pathogen dynamics. We recommend integrating monitoring of ticks and the risk of tick-borne pathogens with conservation management activities. This would help fill knowledge gaps and the production of best practice guidelines to reduce risks. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Conservation, biodiversity and infectious disease: scientific evidence and policy implications’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Millins
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK .,The Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.,School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Lucy Gilbert
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, UK
| | - Jolyon Medlock
- Medical Entomology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK.,Health Protection Research Unit in Environment and Health, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Kayleigh Hansford
- Medical Entomology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Des Ba Thompson
- Scottish Natural Heritage, 231 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 7AT, UK
| | - Roman Biek
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.,The Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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22
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23
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Vaughan-Higgins RJ, Masters N, Sainsbury AW. Biosecurity for Translocations: Cirl Bunting (Emberiza cirlus), Fisher's Estuarine Moth (Gortyna borelii lunata), Short-Haired Bumblebee (Bombus subterraneus) and Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae) Translocations as Case Studies. ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:84-91. [PMID: 27491684 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1150-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to parasites in conservation translocations increases the risks to recipient and translocated populations from disease, and therefore there has been interest in implementing biosecurity methods. Using four case examples we described how biosecurity was applied in practical translocation scenarios prior to and during a translocation and also post-release. We implemented biosecurity, including quarantine barriers, at specific points in the translocation pathway where hazards, identified by the disease risk analysis, had the potential to induce disease. Evidence that biosecurity protected translocated and recipient populations, included an absence of mortality associated with high-risk non-native parasites, a reduction in mortality associated with endemic parasites, the absence of high-risk pathogenic parasites, or associated diseases, at the destination; and the apparent absence of diseases in closely related species at the destination site. The biosecurity protocols did not alter the level or duration of translocated species confinement and therefore probably did not act as a stressor. There is a monetary cost involved in biosecurity but the epidemiological evidence suggests that conservation translocation managers should carefully consider its use. Breakdowns in quarantine have occurred in human hospitals despite considerable investment and training for health professionals, and we therefore judge that there is a need for training in the objectives and maintenance of quarantine barriers in conservation translocations. Biosecurity protocols for conservation translocations should be continually updated in response to findings from disease risk analysis and post-release disease surveillance and we recommend further studies to evaluate their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Vaughan-Higgins
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
- Conservation Medicine and Wildlife Health, School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, South St, Murdoch, Perth, WA, 6151, Australia.
| | - N Masters
- Veterinary department, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - A W Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
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24
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Dalziel AE, Sainsbury AW, McInnes K, Jakob-Hoff R, Ewen JG. A Comparison of Disease Risk Analysis Tools for Conservation Translocations. ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:30-41. [PMID: 27638471 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Conservation translocations are increasingly used to manage threatened species and restore ecosystems. Translocations increase the risk of disease outbreaks in the translocated and recipient populations. Qualitative disease risk analyses have been used as a means of assessing the magnitude of any effect of disease and the probability of the disease occurring associated with a translocation. Currently multiple alternative qualitative disease risk analysis packages are available to practitioners. Here we compare the ease of use, expertise required, transparency, and results from, three different qualitative disease risk analyses using a translocation of the endangered New Zealand passerine, the hihi (Notiomystis cincta), as a model. We show that the three methods use fundamentally different approaches to define hazards. Different methods are used to produce estimations of the risk from disease, and the estimations are different for the same hazards. Transparency of the process varies between methods from no referencing, or explanations of evidence to justify decisions, through to full documentation of resources, decisions and assumptions made. Evidence to support decisions on estimation of risk from disease is important, to enable knowledge acquired in the future, for example, from translocation outcome, to be used to improve the risk estimation for future translocations. Information documenting each disease risk analysis differs along with variation in emphasis of the questions asked within each package. The expertise required to commence a disease risk analysis varies and an action flow chart tailored for the non-wildlife health specialist are included in one method but completion of the disease risk analysis requires wildlife health specialists with epidemiological and pathological knowledge in all three methods. We show that disease risk analysis package choice may play a greater role in the overall risk estimation of the effect of disease on animal populations involved in a translocation than might previously have been realised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Eleanor Dalziel
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
- Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK.
| | - Anthony W Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Kate McInnes
- Department of Conservation, Conservation House - Whare Kaupapa Atawhai, PO Box 10420, Wellington, 6143, New Zealand
| | - Richard Jakob-Hoff
- New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine, Auckland Zoo, Private Bag, Grey Lynn, Auckland, 1245, New Zealand
| | - John G Ewen
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
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25
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Peniche G, Olson PD, Bennett DJ, Wong L, Sainsbury AW, Durrant C. Protecting Free-Living Dormice: Molecular Identification of Cestode Parasites in Captive Dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) Destined for Reintroduction. ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:106-116. [PMID: 26957436 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1108-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The success of any population translocation programme relies heavily on the measures implemented to control and monitor the spread of disease. Without these measures, programmes run the risk of releasing immunologically naïve species or, more dangerously, introducing novel infectious agents to native populations. As a precaution, a reintroduction programme for the common or hazel dormouse, Muscardinus avellanarius, in England screens dormice before release following captive breeding. Using PCR sequencing of a range of genes, we tested whether the same species of tapeworm(s) were present in captive and free-living dormice. Whilst only Rodentolepis straminea were identified in free-living dormice, cestode ova found in a captive individual produced a molecular match closely related to Hymenolepis microstoma and a previously unrecorded Rodentolepis species. To prevent putting at risk the free-living population, we recommended the continued treatment of dormice showing tapeworm infection before release. Our work demonstrates how molecular techniques can be used to inform reintroduction programmes, reduce risk from disease and increase chances of reintroduction success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Peniche
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
| | - Peter D Olson
- Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Dominic J Bennett
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Louise Wong
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Anthony W Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Christopher Durrant
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
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26
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Rideout BA, Sainsbury AW, Hudson PJ. Which Parasites Should We be Most Concerned About in Wildlife Translocations? ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:42-46. [PMID: 27234456 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-016-1132-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Rideout
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, PO Box 120551, San Diego, CA, 92112, USA.
| | - Anthony W Sainsbury
- The Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Peter J Hudson
- Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
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27
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Dale TD, Watts PC, Jones D, Pounder K, Everest DJ, Begon ME, Chantrey J. Enhancement of wildlife disease surveillance using multiplex quantitative PCR: development of qPCR assays for major pathogens in UK squirrel populations. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2016; 62:589-599. [PMID: 32214943 PMCID: PMC7088385 DOI: 10.1007/s10344-016-1031-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Rapid development in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology has revolutionised the speed and accuracy of many diagnostic assays. However, comparatively few wildlife epidemiological studies use quantitative PCR (qPCR) for pathogen detection, even fewer employ an internal control, to ensure confidence in negative results, and PCR's ability to multiplex and therefore detect several targets in a single reaction is underutilised. Here, we describe the development of two multiplex qPCR assays for the red and grey squirrel that detect the pathogens squirrelpox virus (SQPV) and adenovirus in squirrels (SADV), both of which cause mortality in the red squirrel. Both assays use a section of the squirrel phosphoglycerate kinase gene as an endogenous internal control that identifies and compensates for both, inadequate sampling or PCR inhibition. Tests on infected squirrel tissue demonstrate that simple swab samples (particularly from distal antebrachial skin) are sufficient to detect and identify the relative quantity of SQPV DNA in both squirrel species, while rectal swabs and blood cell pellets can be used to reliably indicate SADV infection. These assays are sensitive and specific with an endogenous internal control providing confidence in negative results and allowing comparison across laboratories. Using such assays should prove advantageous in wildlife studies with limited resources while allowing the maximum data yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy D. Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | | | - David Jones
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kieran Pounder
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | - David J. Everest
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB UK
| | - Michael E. Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | - Julian Chantrey
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
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28
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Everest DJ, Dastjerdi A, Cowen D, Gomm M, Shuttleworth CM, McInnes CJ, Deane D, Coulter L, Mill A, Rushton SP, Jackson NL, Litherland P. SQPV antibody detection in juvenile squirrels. Vet Rec 2016; 179:101-2. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.i3995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David J. Everest
- APHA-Weybridge; Woodham Lane, New Haw Addlestone Surrey KT15 3NB
| | - Akbar Dastjerdi
- APHA-Weybridge; Woodham Lane, New Haw Addlestone Surrey KT15 3NB
| | - David Cowen
- National Wildlife Centre; APHA-York, Sand Hutton York North Yorkshire YO41 1LZ
| | - Matthew Gomm
- National Wildlife Centre; APHA-York, Sand Hutton York North Yorkshire YO41 1LZ
| | | | - Colin J. McInnes
- Moredun Research Institute; Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan Penicuik Midlothian EH26 0PZ
| | - David Deane
- Moredun Research Institute; Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan Penicuik Midlothian EH26 0PZ
| | - Lesley Coulter
- Moredun Research Institute; Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan Penicuik Midlothian EH26 0PZ
| | - Aileen Mill
- School of Biology; Newcastle University Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 7RU
| | | | - Nicholas L. Jackson
- National Zoological Society of Wales; Welsh Mountain Zoo Colwyn Bay Conwy LL28 5UY
| | - Peter Litherland
- National Zoological Society of Wales; Welsh Mountain Zoo Colwyn Bay Conwy LL28 5UY
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Sainsbury AW, Yu-Mei R, Ågren E, Vaughan-Higgins RJ, Mcgill IS, Molenaar F, Peniche G, Foster J. Disease Risk Analysis and Post-Release Health Surveillance for a Reintroduction Programme: the Pool Frog Pelophylax lessonae. Transbound Emerg Dis 2016; 64:1530-1548. [PMID: 27393743 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There are risks from disease in undertaking wild animal reintroduction programmes. Methods of disease risk analysis have been advocated to assess and mitigate these risks, and post-release health and disease surveillance can be used to assess the effectiveness of the disease risk analysis, but results for a reintroduction programme have not to date been recorded. We carried out a disease risk analysis for the reintroduction of pool frogs (Pelophylax lessonae) to England, using information gained from the literature and from diagnostic testing of Swedish pool frogs and native amphibians. Ranavirus and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis were considered high-risk disease threats for pool frogs at the destination site. Quarantine was used to manage risks from disease due to these two agents at the reintroduction site: the quarantine barrier surrounded the reintroduced pool frogs. Post-release health surveillance was carried out through regular health examinations of amphibians in the field at the reintroduction site and collection and examination of dead amphibians. No significant health or disease problems were detected, but the detection rate of dead amphibians was very low. Methods to detect a higher proportion of dead reintroduced animals and closely related species are required to better assess the effects of reintroduction on health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
| | - R Yu-Mei
- Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - E Ågren
- National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - I S Mcgill
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK.,Prion Interest Group, Brighton, UK
| | - F Molenaar
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
| | - G Peniche
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
| | - J Foster
- Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Wareham, Dorset, UK
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30
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Fiegna C, Dagleish M, Coulter L, Milne E, Meredith A, Finlayson J, Di Nardo A, McInnes C. Host-pathogen dynamics of squirrelpox virus infection in red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris). Vet Microbiol 2016; 182:18-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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31
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An Invasive Mammal (the Gray Squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis) Commonly Hosts Diverse and Atypical Genotypes of the Zoonotic Pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato. Appl Environ Microbiol 2015; 81:4236-45. [PMID: 25888168 PMCID: PMC4475893 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00109-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive vertebrate species can act as hosts for endemic pathogens and may alter pathogen community composition and dynamics. For the zoonotic pathogen Borrelia burgdorferisensu lato, the agent of Lyme borreliosis, recent work shows invasive rodent species can be of high epidemiological importance and may support host-specific strains. This study examined the role of gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) (n = 679), an invasive species in the United Kingdom, as B. burgdorferi sensu lato hosts. We found that gray squirrels were frequently infested with Ixodes ricinus, the main vector of B. burgdorferi sensu lato in the United Kingdom, and 11.9% were infected with B. burgdorferi sensu lato. All four genospecies that occur in the United Kingdom were detected in gray squirrels, and unexpectedly, the bird-associated genospecies Borrelia garinii was most common. The second most frequent infection was with Borrelia afzelii. Genotyping of B. garinii and B. afzelii produced no evidence for strains associated with gray squirrels. Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) identified tick infestation and date of capture as significant factors associated with B. burgdorferi sensu lato infection in gray squirrels, with infection elevated in early summer in squirrels infested with ticks. Invasive gray squirrels appear to become infected with locally circulating strains of B. burgdorferi sensu lato, and further studies are required to determine their role in community disease dynamics. Our findings highlight the fact that the role of introduced host species in B. burgdorferi sensu lato epidemiology can be highly variable and thus difficult to predict.
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Stritch C, Naulty F, Zintl A, Callanan JJ, McCullough M, Deane D, Marnell F, McMahon BJ. Squirrelpox virus reservoir expansion on the east coast of Ireland. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-015-0909-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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33
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Frontier population dynamics of an invasive squirrel species: Do introduced populations function differently than those in the native range? Biol Invasions 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-014-0787-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Chantrey J, Dale TD, Read JM, White S, Whitfield F, Jones D, McInnes CJ, Begon M. European red squirrel population dynamics driven by squirrelpox at a gray squirrel invasion interface. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:3788-99. [PMID: 25614793 PMCID: PMC4301051 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious disease introduced by non-native species is increasingly cited as a facilitator of
native population declines, but direct evidence may be lacking due to inadequate population and
disease prevalence data surrounding an outbreak. Previous indirect evidence and theoretical models
support squirrelpox virus (SQPV) as being potentially involved in the decline of red squirrels
(Sciurus vulgaris) following the introduction of the non-native gray squirrel
(Sciurus carolinensis) to the United Kingdom. The red squirrel is a major UK
conservation concern and understanding its continuing decline is important for any attempt to
mitigate the decline. The red squirrel–gray squirrel system is also exemplary of the
interplay between infectious disease (apparent competition) and direct competition in driving the
replacement of a native by an invasive species. Time series data from Merseyside are presented on
squirrel abundance and squirrelpox disease (SQPx) incidence, to determine the effect of the pathogen
and the non-native species on the native red squirrel populations. Analysis indicates that SQPx in
red squirrels has a significant negative impact on squirrel densities and their population growth
rate (PGR). There is little evidence for a direct gray squirrel impact; only gray squirrel presence
(but not density) proved to influence red squirrel density, but not red squirrel PGR. The dynamics
of red SQPx cases are largely determined by previous red SQPx cases, although previous infection of
local gray squirrels also feature, and thus, SQPV-infected gray squirrels are identified as
potentially initiating outbreaks of SQPx in red squirrels. Retrospective serology indicates that
approximately 8% of red squirrels exposed to SQPV may survive infection during an epidemic.
This study further highlights the UK red squirrel – gray squirrel system as a classic example
of a native species population decline strongly facilitated by infectious disease introduced by a
non-native species. It is therefore paramount that disease prevention and control measures are
integral in attempts to conserve red squirrels in the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Chantrey
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
| | - Timothy D Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
| | - Jonathan M Read
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, U.K
| | - Steve White
- Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Seaforth Nature Reserve Liverpool, L21 1JD, U.K
| | - Fiona Whitfield
- Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Seaforth Nature Reserve Liverpool, L21 1JD, U.K
| | - David Jones
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, U.K
| | - Colin J McInnes
- Moredun Institute, Pentlands Science Park Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, U.K
| | - Michael Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
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35
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Everest DJ, Shuttleworth CM, Stidworthy MF, Grierson SS, Duff JP, Kenward RE. Adenovirus: an emerging factor in red squirrel S
ciurus vulgaris
conservation. Mamm Rev 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Craig M. Shuttleworth
- Red Squirrels Trust Wales; Plas Newydd Country House; Llanfairpwll Anglesey LL61 6DQ UK
| | - Mark F. Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group; Station House; Parkwood Street, Keighley West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ UK
| | | | - J. Paul Duff
- AHVLA-Penrith; Diseases of Wildlife Scheme (AHVLA DoWS) Calthwaite; Penrith Cumbria CA11 9RR UK
| | - Robert E. Kenward
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology; Benson Lane; Crowmarsh Gifford Wallingford OX10 8BB UK
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36
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Rivas AE, Righton AL, Bugman AM, Kihn AE, Coleman DA, Singh K, Whittington JK. Pathology in practice. Cutaneous and disseminated infection with squirrel fibroma virus (SFV). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014; 245:389-91. [PMID: 25075821 DOI: 10.2460/javma.245.4.389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Rivas
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802
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37
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Lachmann PJ. Evolution, ethics and religion. Glob Bioeth 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/11287462.2014.941210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Novel host-related virulence factors are encoded by squirrelpox virus, the main causative agent of epidemic disease in red squirrels in the UK. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96439. [PMID: 24983354 PMCID: PMC4077651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Squirrelpox virus (SQPV) shows little evidence for morbidity or mortality in North American grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), in which the virus is endemic. However, more recently the virus has emerged to cause epidemics with high mortality in Eurasian red squirrels (S. vulgaris) in Great Britain, which are now threatened. Here we report the genome sequence of SQPV. Comparison with other Poxviridae revealed a core set of poxvirus genes, the phylogeny of which showed SQPV to be in a new Chordopoxvirus subfamily between the Molluscipoxviruses and Parapoxviruses. A number of SQPV genes were related to virulence, including three major histocomaptibility class I homologs, and one CD47 homolog. In addition, a novel potential virulence factor showing homology to mammalian oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS) was identified. This family of proteins normally causes activation of an endoribonuclease (RNaseL) within infected cells. The putative function of this novel SQPV protein was predicted in silico.
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39
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White A, Bell SS, Lurz PWW, Boots M. Conservation management within strongholds in the face of disease-mediated invasions: red and grey squirrels as a case study. J Appl Ecol 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andy White
- Department of Mathematics and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences; Heriot-Watt University; Edinburgh EH14 4AS UK
| | | | | | - Mike Boots
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences; University of Exeter; Cornwall Campus Treliever Road Penryn Cornwall TR10 9EZ UK
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40
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Orthopoxvirus antibodies in grey squirrels (Sciurus aureogaster) in Mexico City, Mexico. J Wildl Dis 2014; 50:696-8. [PMID: 24807351 DOI: 10.7589/2013-12-320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Serum from Mexican grey squirrels (Sciurus aureogaster) from Mexico City reacted to Orthopoxvirus by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Real-time PCR based on oral swabs and scabs did not detect viral DNA. Antibody prevalence was 30% (n=366), providing the first evidence of Orthopoxvirus antibodies in Mexican wild rodents.
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41
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42
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Landscape scale impacts of culling upon a European grey squirrel population: can trapping reduce population size and decrease the threat of squirrelpox virus infection for the native red squirrel? Biol Invasions 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-014-0671-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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43
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Ball S, Daszak P, Sainsbury A, Snow K. Coccidian parasites of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in England. J NAT HIST 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2013.867376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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44
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Collins LM, Warnock ND, Tosh DG, McInnes C, Everest D, Montgomery WI, Scantlebury M, Marks N, Dick JTA, Reid N. Squirrelpox virus: assessing prevalence, transmission and environmental degradation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e89521. [PMID: 24586845 PMCID: PMC3931809 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0089521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) declined in Great Britain and Ireland during the last century, due to habitat loss and the introduction of grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), which competitively exclude the red squirrel and act as a reservoir for squirrelpox virus (SQPV). The disease is generally fatal to red squirrels and their ecological replacement by grey squirrels is up to 25 times faster where the virus is present. We aimed to determine: (1) the seropositivity and prevalence of SQPV DNA in the invasive and native species at a regional scale; (2) possible SQPV transmission routes; and, (3) virus degradation rates under differing environmental conditions. Grey (n = 208) and red (n = 40) squirrel blood and tissues were sampled. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) techniques established seropositivity and viral DNA presence, respectively. Overall 8% of squirrels sampled (both species combined) had evidence of SQPV DNA in their tissues and 22% were in possession of antibodies. SQPV prevalence in sampled red squirrels was 2.5%. Viral loads were typically low in grey squirrels by comparison to red squirrels. There was a trend for a greater number of positive samples in spring and summer than in winter. Possible transmission routes were identified through the presence of viral DNA in faeces (red squirrels only), urine and ectoparasites (both species). Virus degradation analyses suggested that, after 30 days of exposure to six combinations of environments, there were more intact virus particles in scabs kept in warm (25°C) and dry conditions than in cooler (5 and 15°C) or wet conditions. We conclude that SQPV is present at low prevalence in invasive grey squirrel populations with a lower prevalence in native red squirrels. Virus transmission could occur through urine especially during warm dry summer conditions but, more notably, via ectoparasites, which are shared by both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Collins
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincolnshire, England
| | - Neil D. Warnock
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - David G. Tosh
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Colin McInnes
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland
| | - David Everest
- Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), Addlestone, Surrey, England
| | - W. Ian Montgomery
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Mike Scantlebury
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Nikki Marks
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Jaimie T. A. Dick
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Neil Reid
- Quercus, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- * E-mail:
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45
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Goldstein EA, Lawton C, Sheehy E, Butler F. Locating species range frontiers: a cost and efficiency comparison of citizen science and hair-tube survey methods for use in tracking an invasive squirrel. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2014. [DOI: 10.1071/wr13197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context Improved knowledge of changing species distributions is critically important for conservation managers in the face of increasing species invasions, habitat disturbance and climate change. Efficient monitoring of the location of advancing species invasion frontiers is especially crucial for effective species community and habitat management. Aims To compare the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of two survey methods, a citizen science survey and a traditional hair-tube survey, in their abilities to locate the current southern invasion frontier of grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in Ireland. Methods In the citizen science survey, we collected sighting reports of the grey squirrel and its native congener, the red squirrel (S. vulgaris), from the geographic region of the invasion frontier from untrained members of the public over a 2-year period. Hair-tube surveys were carried out in 14 woodlands (≥30 ha) in the same geographic area to test the ability of this indirect field method to identify colonising grey squirrel populations. The costs, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of each method were compared. Key results The citizen science sighting reports resulted in the clear delineation of the southern frontier of the zone invaded by the grey squirrel. The hair-tube survey ascertained the presence of grey squirrels in 4 of 14 sites, but did not detect this species close to the invasion frontier defined by the citizen science survey. Even though the total cost of the citizen science survey was higher, it was more cost-effective and efficient on a per detection basis for the purposes of detecting the presence of grey and red squirrels. Conclusions The citizen science survey detected invasive squirrels in sites where the hair-tube survey did not. As such, the citizen science survey provided a more comprehensive snapshot of the location of the grey squirrel invasion frontier more efficiently and cost-effectively than did traditional field techniques. Implications In the face of increasing ecological and economic costs of biological invasions, we recommend straightforward citizen science surveys, over indirect field surveys, to managers and researchers seeking to efficiently track progressing invasions of readily observable animals cost-effectively.
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46
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Everest DJ, Shuttleworth CM, Grierson SS, Duff JP, Jackson N, Litherland P, Kenward RE, Stidworthy MF. Systematic assessment of the impact of adenovirus infection on a captive reintroduction project for red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris
). Vet Rec 2012; 171:176. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.100617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. J. Everest
- AHVLA - Weybridge; Woodham Lane, New Haw Addlestone Surrey KT15 3NB UK
| | - C. M. Shuttleworth
- Red Squirrel Survival Trust; Plas Newydd Country House; Llanfairpwll Anglesey LL61 6DQ UK
| | - S. S. Grierson
- AHVLA - Weybridge; Woodham Lane, New Haw Addlestone Surrey KT15 3NB UK
| | - J. P. Duff
- AHVLA - Penrith; Merrythought, Calthwaite Penrith Cumbria CA11 9RR UK
| | - N. Jackson
- National Zoological Society of Wales; Welsh Mountain Zoo - National Zoo of Wales; Colwyn Bay Conwy LL28 5UY UK
| | - P. Litherland
- National Zoological Society of Wales; Welsh Mountain Zoo - National Zoo of Wales; Colwyn Bay Conwy LL28 5UY UK
| | - R. E. Kenward
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology; Benson Lane Crowmarsh Gifford Wallingford OX10 8BB UK
| | - M. F. Stidworthy
- International Zoo Veterinary Group; Station House, Parkwood Street Keighley West Yorkshire BD21 4NQ UK
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47
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McInnes CJ, Coulter L, Dagleish MP, Deane D, Gilray J, Percival A, Willoughby K, Scantlebury M, Marks N, Graham D, Everest DJ, McGoldrick M, Rochford J, McKay F, Sainsbury AW. The emergence of squirrelpox in Ireland. Anim Conserv 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1795.2012.00570.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - L. Coulter
- Moredun Research Institute; Edinburgh; UK
| | | | - D. Deane
- Moredun Research Institute; Edinburgh; UK
| | - J. Gilray
- Moredun Research Institute; Edinburgh; UK
| | | | | | - M. Scantlebury
- Queen's University Belfast; Belfast; Northern Ireland; UK
| | - N. Marks
- Queen's University Belfast; Belfast; Northern Ireland; UK
| | - D. Graham
- Animal Health Ireland; Carrick on Shannon; Eire
| | - D. J. Everest
- Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency; Surrey; UK
| | | | | | - F. McKay
- Zoological Society of London; London; UK
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48
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Sainsbury AW, Vaughan-Higgins RJ. Analyzing disease risks associated with translocations. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2012; 26:442-52. [PMID: 22533691 DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-1739.2012.01839.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Translocations of species are expected to be used increasingly to counter the undesirable effects of anthropogenic changes to ecosystems, including loss of species. Methods to assess the risk of disease associated with translocations have been compiled in a comprehensive manual of disease-risk analysis for movement of domestic animals. We used this manual to devise a qualitative method for assessing the probability of the occurrence of disease in wild animals associated with translocations. We adapted the method such that we considered a parasite (any agent of infectious or noninfectious disease) a hazard if it or the host had crossed an ecological or geographical barrier and was novel to the host. We included in our analyses hazards present throughout the translocation pathway derived from the interactions between host immunity and the parasite, the effect of parasites on populations, the effect of noninfectious disease agents, and the effect of stressors on host-parasite interactions. We used the reintroduction of Eurasian Cranes (Grus grus) to England to demonstrate our method. Of the 24 hazards identified, 1 was classified as high risk (coccidia) and 5 were medium risk (highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, Mycobacterium avium, Aspergillus fumigatus, tracheal worms [Syngamus sp. and Cyathostoma sp.], and Tetrameres spp.). Seventeen other hazards were considered low or very low risk. In the absence of better information on the number, identity, distribution, and pathogenicity of parasites of wild animals, there is uncertainty in the risk of disease to translocated animals and recipient populations. Surveys of parasites in source and destination populations and detailed health monitoring after release will improve the information available for future analyses of disease risk. We believe our method can be adapted to assess the risks of disease in other translocated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony W Sainsbury
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom.
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49
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Bertolino S, Lurz PWW. Callosciurussquirrels: worldwide introductions, ecological impacts and recommendations to prevent the establishment of new invasive populations. Mamm Rev 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2907.2011.00204.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Bertolino
- Department of Protection and Exploitation of Agricultural Resources, Entomology and Zoology; Via L. Da VincI 44; 10095; Grugliasco; TO; Italy
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50
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First report of Obeliscoides cuniculi in European brown hare (Lepus europaeus). Parasitol Res 2011; 109:963-6. [PMID: 21484345 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2375-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Obeliscoides cuniculi is a New World nematode parasite of the Trichostrongilidae family infecting the gastric tract of different domestic and wild Lagomorph species. This parasite is reported for the first time from a European brown hare (Lepus europaeus). The nematodes isolated from the gastro-intestinal tract were identified using the primary characteristics used to differentiate the species of this genus as adults morphology (length and thickness) and other characteristics of spicules, cervical papillae, cuticular ridges and striations. In the Italian study area, the European brown hare lives in sympatry with the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), species in which the nematode was previously isolated; therefore, the possibility of a cross-infestation must be considered.
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