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Murillo AC, Abdoli A, Blatchford RA, Keogh EJ, Gerry AC. Low levels of chicken body louse (Menacanthus stramineus) infestations affect chicken welfare in a cage-free housing system. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:221. [PMID: 38745229 PMCID: PMC11092089 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06313-6] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The chicken body louse is an obligate ectoparasite of domestic chickens. Chicken body lice feed on feathers, and infestation with this louse is linked to decreases in egg production, hen weight, and feed conversion efficiency. However, it is unknown how chicken body lice impact egg-laying chickens in cage-free environments. Welfare and behavior metrics were collected from flocks of egg-laying chickens either infested with chicken body lice or left uninfested. METHODS In two trials, two flocks of cage-free commercial egg-laying chickens were infested with chicken body lice or maintained as uninfested controls. At three timepoints, behavior and welfare of all chickens was measured. On-animal sensors were used to quantify pecking, preening, and dustbathing behavior. Other animal-based welfare metrics included recording comb wounds and skin lesions. RESULTS Birds infested with chicken body lice exhibited significantly more preening behaviors than uninfested birds, even at low louse levels. Moderate or severe skin lesions were detected on birds that were moderately infested with chicken body lice while skin lesions were never detected on uninfested birds. CONCLUSIONS The welfare of chickens was impacted by the chicken body louse, a chewing louse that primarily feather feeds. Evidence of skin lesions on infested birds suggests that lice may cause more damage to birds than previously thought, and further evaluation of louse economic damage is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C Murillo
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
| | - Alireza Abdoli
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Richard A Blatchford
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Animal Welfare, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Eammon J Keogh
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Alec C Gerry
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
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Sulzbach A, Gedoz C, Quadri VD, Ohlweiler LM, Silva FR, da Silva GL, Johann L. Impact of the mites Dermanyssus gallinae and Tyrophagus putrescentiae on production and health of laying hens. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2024; 92:61-85. [PMID: 38123750 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00869-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Mites are considered a threat to the commercial poultry industry due to their direct and indirect pathogenic effects. Dermanyssus gallinae is among the mite species that endanger production, as it is hematophagous and poses a serious sanitary risk. Recently, Tyrophagus putrescentiae has also drawn attention as a potential pest in the poultry industry, and its attacks have been related to clinical symptoms such as cutaneous eruptions and bird restlessness. Considering the potential economic, sanitary, and productive losses both species represent to the laying-hen industry, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of D. gallinae and T. putrescentiae on the health and productivity of commercial laying hens by carrying out infestation experiments and by monitoring laying hens for a period of 60 days. Tyrophagus putrescentiae and D. gallinae affected egg quality and zootechnical parameters in laying hens. Hens infested by T. putrescentiae had behavioral changes, weight loss, stress symptoms, and decreased egg laying and quality, as well as diarrhea, gradual feather loss, and itching. Hens infested by D. gallinae also had weight loss, behavioral changes, and stress symptoms, leading to decreased laying and egg quality. The present study proposes an experimental model to understand the impacts caused by T. putrescentiae and D. gallinae on commercial laying production and egg quality parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Sulzbach
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas Ambientais Sustentáveis, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Av. Avelino Talini, 171 Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 95914-014, Brasil.
| | - Carolina Gedoz
- Centro de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Verônica Dalmolin Quadri
- Centro de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Laura Marina Ohlweiler
- Centro de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | | | - Guilherme Liberato da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas Ambientais Sustentáveis, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Av. Avelino Talini, 171 Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 95914-014, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
| | - Liana Johann
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas Ambientais Sustentáveis, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Av. Avelino Talini, 171 Bairro Universitário, Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 95914-014, Brasil
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3
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Liu KL, He YF, Xu BW, Lin LX, Chen P, Iqbal MK, Mehmood K, Huang SC. Leg disorders in broiler chickens: a review of current knowledge. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:5124-5138. [PMID: 37850850 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2270000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring improved leg health is an important prerequisite for broilers to achieve optimal production performance and welfare status. Broiler leg disease is characterized by leg muscle weakness, leg bone deformation, joint cysts, arthritis, femoral head necrosis, and other symptoms that result in lameness or paralysis. These conditions significantly affect movement, feeding and broiler growth performance. Nowadays, the high incidence of leg abnormalities in broiler chickens has become an important issue that hampers the development of broiler farming. Therefore, it is imperative to prevent leg diseases and improve the health of broiler legs. This review mainly discusses the current prevalence of broiler leg diseases and describes the risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention of leg diseases to provide a scientific basis for addressing broiler leg health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Li Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Feng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Bo-Wen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Lu-Xi Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Pan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Muhammad Kashif Iqbal
- Institute of Continuing Education and Extension, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Mehmood
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Shu-Cheng Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
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da Silva GG, Zaldívar MF, Oliveira LAR, Mariano RMDS, Lair DF, de Souza RA, Galdino AS, Chávez-Fumagalli MA, da Silveira-Lemos D, Dutra WO, Nascimento Araújo R, Ferreira LL, Giunchetti RC. Advances in Non-Chemical Tools to Control Poultry Hematophagous Mites. Vet Sci 2023; 10:589. [PMID: 37888541 PMCID: PMC10611074 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100589] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-sucking mites Dermanyssus gallinae ("red mite"), Ornithonyssus sylviarum ("northern fowl mite"), and Ornithonyssus bursa ("tropical fowl mite") stand out for causing infestations in commercial poultry farms worldwide, resulting in significant economic damage for producers. In addition to changes in production systems that include new concerns for animal welfare, global climate change in recent years has become a major challenge in the spread of ectoparasites around the world. This review includes information regarding the main form of controlling poultry mites through the use of commercially available chemicals. In addition, non-chemical measures against blood-sucking mites were discussed such as extracts and oils from plants and seeds, entomopathogenic fungi, semiochemicals, powder such as diatomaceous earth and silica-based products, and vaccine candidates. The control of poultry mites using chemical methods that are currently used to control or eliminate them are proving to be less effective as mites develop resistance. In contrast, the products based on plant oils and extracts, powders of plant origin, fungi, and new antigens aimed at developing transmission-blocking vaccines against poultry mites provide some encouraging options for the rational control of these ectoparasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geralda Gabriele da Silva
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Maykelin Fuentes Zaldívar
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Lucilene Aparecida Resende Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Reysla Maria da Silveira Mariano
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Daniel Ferreira Lair
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Renata Antunes de Souza
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, Federal University of São João Del-Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro Oeste, Divinópolis 35501-296, MG, Brazil;
| | - Miguel Angel Chávez-Fumagalli
- Computational Biology and Chemistry Research Group, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Católica de Santa María, Urb. San José S/N, Arequipa 04000, Peru;
| | - Denise da Silveira-Lemos
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Walderez Ornelas Dutra
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Ricardo Nascimento Araújo
- Laboratory of Hematophagous Arthropods, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil;
| | - Lorena Lopes Ferreira
- Laboratory of Ectoparasites, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil;
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
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Pavan AM, Da-Costa T, Schussler M, Ferla NJ, Johann L, Silva GLD. Acarofauna associated with organic matter in laying aviaries of different rearing systems in Brazil. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023:10.1007/s10493-023-00815-1. [PMID: 37500954 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00815-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Due to the high density of chickens housed within the same space in aviaries, a large volume of organic matter accumulates on the floor. This large supply of available resources allows the development of arthropods, including organisms that affect poultry productivity and health. This study aimed to evaluate the composition of the mite community associated with organic matter in poultry houses with different rearing systems and the verification of potential predators to be evaluated in clean management techniques, such as biological control. The study was carried out in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) in a total of six poultry houses, two of the 'Californian' system (SIG) and four of the 'cage free' system (SIF). In total, 839,459 specimens were collected, of which 358,044 were collected from SIF and 481,415 specimens from SIG. Fifty-two species/morphospecies were found and we observed a grouping of aviaries from the same rearing model. Species of medical veterinary importance were found, such as Dermanyssus gallinae, Megninia ginglymura, Ornithonyssus sylviarum and Tyrophagus putrescentiae. The results demonstrate that the organic matter present in the aviaries harbors a high diversity of mites of medical-veterinary importance and predators, which are influenced by the rearing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Marjana Pavan
- Laboratório de Acarologia, Tecnovates, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil.
| | - Tairis Da-Costa
- Laboratório de Acarologia, Tecnovates, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
- Laboratório de Evolução, Ecologia Química e Quimiotaxonomia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Matheus Schussler
- Laboratório de Acarologia, Tecnovates, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
| | - Noeli Juarez Ferla
- Laboratório de Acarologia, Tecnovates, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
- CNPq Researcher, Lajeado, Brasil
| | - Liana Johann
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas Ambientais Sustentáveis - PPGSAS, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
- CNPq Researcher, Lajeado, Brasil
| | - Guilherme Liberato da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas Ambientais Sustentáveis - PPGSAS, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas - PPGCM, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Lajeado, RS, Brasil
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Win SY, Murata S, Fujisawa S, Seo H, Sato J, Motai Y, Sato T, Oishi E, Taneno A, Htun LL, Bawm S, Okagawa T, Maekawa N, Konnai S, Ohashi K. Characterization of cysteine proteases from poultry red mite, tropical fowl mite, and northern fowl mite to assess the feasibility of developing a broadly efficacious vaccine against multiple mite species. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288565. [PMID: 37440547 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Infestation with poultry red mites (PRM, Dermanyssus gallinae) causes anemia, reduced egg production, and death in serious cases, resulting in significant economic losses to the poultry industry. As a novel strategy for controlling PRMs, vaccine approaches have been focused upon and several candidate vaccine antigens against PRMs have been reported. Tropical (TFM, Ornithonyssus bursa) and northern (NFM, Ornithonyssus sylviarum) fowl mites are also hematophagous and cause poultry industry problems similar to those caused by PRM. Therefore, ideal antigens for anti-PRM vaccines are molecules that cross-react with TFMs and NFMs, producing pesticidal effects similar to those against PRMs. In this study, to investigate the potential feasibility of developing vaccines with broad efficacy across mite species, we identified and characterized cysteine proteases (CPs) of TFMs and NFMs, which were previously reported to be effective vaccine antigens of PRMs. The open reading frames of CPs from TFMs and NFMs had the same sequences, which was 73.0% similar to that of PRMs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the CPs of TFMs and NFMs clustered in the same clade as CPs of PRMs. To assess protein functionality, we generated recombinant peptidase domains of CPs (rCP-PDs), revealing all rCP-PDs showed CP-like activities. Importantly, the plasma obtained from chickens immunized with each rCP-PD cross-reacted with rCP-PDs of different mites. Finally, all immune plasma of rCP-PDs reduced the survival rate of PRMs, even when the plasma was collected from chickens immunized with rCP-PDs derived from TFM and NFM. Therefore, CP antigen is a promising, broadly efficacious vaccine candidate against different avian mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shwe Yee Win
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shiro Murata
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Advanced Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Sotaro Fujisawa
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hikari Seo
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Jumpei Sato
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshinosuke Motai
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takumi Sato
- Vaxxinova Japan K.K., Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiji Oishi
- Vaxxinova Japan K.K., Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Lat Lat Htun
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Saw Bawm
- Department of Pharmacology and Parasitology, University of Veterinary Science, Yezin, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
- Department of Livestock and Aquaculture Research, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Tomohiro Okagawa
- Department of Advanced Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoya Maekawa
- Department of Advanced Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoru Konnai
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Advanced Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Ohashi
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Advanced Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
- International Affairs Office, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan
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Chigger mite (Acariformes: Trombiculidae) infestation in reed passerine birds in Central Europe: a case of the bearded tit Panurus biarmicus. Parasitology 2023; 150:212-220. [PMID: 36562153 PMCID: PMC10090586 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Larval trombiculid (chigger) mites are common ectoparasites of terrestrial vertebrates including humans, causing itching and skin inflammation known as trombiculiasis. Investigation of their diversity, distribution and seasonal abundance is therefore important from a veterinary and public health point of view. Although researchers have paid increased attention to these parasites in recent years, there is still little ecological data available on chiggers associated with birds inhabiting different types of habitats such as wetlands, for example. In 2021, we investigated the mite fauna in a specialist reedbed passerine, the bearded tit (Panurus biarmicus), and their effects on this host in the south-west Slovakia, Central Europe. A total of 1134 larvae of 1 mite species Blankaartia acuscutellaris were found in 99 out of 267 examined bearded tits. Juveniles were more infested than adult birds, but no differences were found between sexes. The larvae of mites first appeared on the host during the second half of June and peaked in the second half of July. After that, their numbers decreased gradually until October. Despite the relatively high prevalence and intensity of mite infestation in the bearded tit, no differences in body condition between infested and uninfested birds suggest that infestation by B. acuscutellaris may not have serious negative effects on the host health. Bearded tits can therefore be a reliable indicator of the presence of the chigger mites in wetland habitats.
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Farm Environmental Enrichments Improve the Welfare of Layer Chicks and Pullets: A Comprehensive Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192610. [PMID: 36230351 PMCID: PMC9559498 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, cage housing is regarded as a global mainstream production system for laying hens. However, limited living space and confinement of birds in cages cause welfare and health problems, such as feather pecking, osteoporosis, obesity, and premature aging. Many studies have been conducted to alleviate layer welfare problems by providing farm environmental enrichments such as litter, sand, alfalfa bales, chick papers, pecking stones, pecking strings, perches, slopes, elevated platforms, aviaries and outdoor access with a trend towards complex enrichments. The provision of appropriate enrichments continuously attracts layers towards pecking, foraging, dust bathing, and locomotion, thereby giving lifelong benefits to laying hens. Hence, raising chicks and pullets under such conditions may reduce feather and skin damage, as well as accumulation of abdominal fat, and improve several biological features such as health, productivity, quality products, and docility of laying hens. Therefore, providing enrichment during the first few days of the layer’s life without any interruption is crucial. In addition, due to different farm conditions, environmental enrichment should be managed by well-trained farm staff. For example, in preventing feather pecking among the birds, litter materials for foraging are superior to dust bath materials or new items. However, a limited supply of litter creates competition and challenges among birds. Therefore, providing farm environmental enrichment for layers requires proper handling, especially in commercial layer farms. Hence, improving the welfare of chicks and pullets through optimizing on-farm environmental enrichments is essential for production systems practicing cage housing.
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Jarrett RA, Erasmus MA, Murillo AC, Scoles KL, Robison CI, Jones DR, Karcher DM. Laying hen production and welfare in a cage-free setting is impacted by the northern fowl mite. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2022.100290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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10
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Jian Y, Li S, Li D, Ning C, Zhang S, Jian F, Si H. Evaluation of the in vitro acaricidal activity of ethanol extracts of seven Chinese medicinal herbs on Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Acari: Macronyssidae). EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2022; 87:67-79. [PMID: 35737253 PMCID: PMC9287229 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-022-00716-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Acari: Macronyssidae) is a common ectoparasite that feeds on the blood of poultry. Following infestation, this mite will cause symptoms such as weight loss, anemia, and decreased egg production. To explore green and safe drugs for the prevention and treatment of O. sylviarum, this study evaluated the effects of ethanol extracts of seven Chinese medicinal herbs-Leonurus artemisia (motherwort), Illicium verum (star anise), Cinnamomum cassia (cinnamon), Hibiscus syriacus, Artemisia argyi (Chinese mugwort), Taraxacum sp. (dandelion), and Syzygium aromaticum (clove)-on O. sylviarum at different life stages. The results showed that different methods of administration affected the acaricidal efficacy of these plant extracts on O. sylviarum. After 6 h of administration with the fumigation method, the acaricidal efficacy of S. aromaticum on adults, nymphs and larvae of O. sylviarum reached 100%. 30 min after administration with the infiltration method, S. aromaticum, H. syriacus and L. artemisia showed acaricidal effects on adults and nymphs of O. sylviarum reaching 100%. In another experiment evaluating the inhibition of egg hatching of O. sylviarum with alcohol extracts of these seven herbs, at 48 h after treatment, A. argyi and C. cassia showed inhibition rates of 19.4%. The results of this study indicate that S. aromaticum induced mortality at all stages of O. sylviarum, whereas A. argyi was found to be the most effective at inhibiting the mite's egg hatching among the seven herbs. These herbs can therefore be used as potential substitutes for chemical pesticides to prevent and control O. sylviarum. These results provide practical knowledge for the control of O. sylviarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Jian
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, GuangXi University, Nanning, 530000, China
| | - Shijie Li
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Dongliang Li
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Changshen Ning
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Sumei Zhang
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Fuchun Jian
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
| | - Hongbin Si
- College of Animal Science and Technology, GuangXi University, Nanning, 530000, China.
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11
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Mercer R, Alaee S, Abdoli A, Senobari NS, Singh S, Murillo A, Keogh E. Introducing the contrast profile: a novel time series primitive that allows real world classification. Data Min Knowl Discov 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10618-022-00824-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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12
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Effects of Key Farm Management Practices on Pullets Welfare—A Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060729. [PMID: 35327126 PMCID: PMC8944683 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Studies on animal behavior and welfare have reported that improving the management practices of pullets can enhance their growth, as well as their physical and mental condition, thus benefiting the productivity of laying hens. Therefore, in this review, we elaborated on the key effective farm management measures, including housing type and matching, flock status, and environmental management and enrichment, to provide the necessary information to incorporate welfare into chicken rearing and its importance in production, with the aim of improving the quantity and quality of chicken products. Abstract Studies on animal behavior and welfare have reported that improving the management practices of pullets can enhance their growth, as well as their physical and mental condition, thus benefiting the productivity of laying hens. There is growing confidence in the international community to abandon the conventional practices of “cage-rearing and beak-trimming” to improve the welfare of chickens. Therefore, in this review, we summarized some of the effective poultry management practices that have provided welfare benefits for pullets. The results are as follows: 1. Maintaining similar housing conditions at different periods alleviates fear and discomfort among pullets; 2. Pullets reared under cage-free systems have better physical conditions and temperaments than those reared in cage systems, and they are more suitable to be transferred to similar housing to lay eggs; 3. Improving flock uniformity in appearance and body size has reduced the risk of pecking and injury; 4. Maintaining an appropriate population (40–500 birds) has reduced flock aggressiveness; 5. A combination of 8–10 h of darkness and 5–30 lux of light-intensity exposure via natural or warm white LED light has achieved a welfare–performance balance in pullets. (This varies by age, strain, and activities.); 6. Dark brooders (mimicking mother hens) have alleviated fear and pecking behaviors in pullets; 7. The air quality of the chicken house has been effectively improved by optimizing feed formulation and ventilation, and by reducing fecal accumulation and fermentation; 8. Complex environments (with litter, perches, straw bales, slopes, platforms, outdoor access, etc.) have stimulated the activities of chickens and have produced good welfare effects. In conclusion, the application of comprehensive management strategies has improved the physical and mental health of pullets, which has, in turn, improved the quantity and quality of poultry products.
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13
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De novo transcriptome sequencing of the northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum, shed light on parasitiform poultry mites evolution and its chemoreceptor repertoires. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:521-535. [PMID: 35032220 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07432-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The northern fowl mite (NFM), Ornithonyssus sylviarum, and the poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae, are the most serious pests of poultry, both of which have an expanding global prevalence. Research on NFM has been constrained by a lack of genomic and transcriptomic data. Here, we report and analyze the first global transcriptome data across all mite live stages and sexes. A total of 28,999 unigenes were assembled, of which 19,750 (68.10%) were annotated using seven functional databases. The biological function of these unigenes was classified using the GO, KOG, and KEGG databases. To gain insight into the chemosensory receptor-based system of parasitiform mites, we furthermore assessed the gene repertoire of gustatory receptors (GRs) and ionotropic receptors (IRs), both of which encode putative ligand-gated ion channel proteins. While these receptors are well characterized in insect model species, our understanding of chemosensory detection in mites and ticks is in its infancy. To address this paucity of data, we identified 9 IR/iGluRs and 2 GRs genes by analyzing transcriptome data in the NFM, while 9 GRs and 41 IR/iGluRs genes were annotated in the PRM genome. Taken together, the transcriptomic and genomic annotation of these two species provide a valuable reference for studies of parasitiform mites and also help to understand how chemosensory gene family expansion/contraction events may have been reshaped by an obligate parasitic lifestyle compared with their free-living closest relatives. Future studies should include additional species to validate this observation and functional characterization of the identified proteins as a step forward in identifying tools for controlling these poultry pests.
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14
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Sulzbach A, Ferla NJ, da Silva GL, Johann L. World occurrence and related problems caused by Megninia ginglymura (Mégnin) (Acari: Analgidae) in commercial poultry farms – a review. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2022.1988805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Sulzbach
- Laboratório de Acarologia Tecnovates, Univates – Universidade do Vale do Taquari, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Noeli Juarez Ferla
- Laboratório de Acarologia Tecnovates, Univates – Universidade do Vale do Taquari, Lajeado, Brazil
| | | | - Liana Johann
- Laboratório de Acarologia Tecnovates, Univates – Universidade do Vale do Taquari, Lajeado, Brazil
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15
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Yerpes M, Llonch P, Manteca X. Effect of environmental conditions during transport on chick weight loss and mortality. Poult Sci 2020; 100:129-137. [PMID: 33357675 PMCID: PMC7772711 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study had 2 objectives: the first was to analyze the possible impact of transport on weight loss and mortality during transport, and first-week mortality. The second was to monitor the environmental condition (i.e., temperature, humidity, and so on) variability during transport with an effect on day-old chicks. Probe equipment was installed in a truck of a poultry company from Spain, including a total of 66 journeys made in commercial conditions between May and November 2017. Animal-based measures collected included BW (before and after transport), mortality during transport, mortality during the first week of life, which were contrasted against a series of environmental variables including air temperature, RH, and carbon dioxide (CO2) atmospheric concentration for every journey, number of day-old chicks (%) per journey, transport duration (h), zones inside the loading area (zone 1, near to the cabin; zone 2, in the central point; and zone 3, close to the back doors), height (1, top; 2, medium; and 3, bottom), mo (May to November), number of stops, type of stop during journey (farm stops and driver stops), time to start the journey, as well as other intrinsic factors of chicks (gender, breed [Ross and Cobb], breeder flock age [wk] and egg storage day). Because the database included random factors, longitudinal data, and repeated measures, a multivariate model was used to analyze the data. The results showed that chick weight loss was positively associated with journey duration and RH. No effect of environmental variables was found on mortality during transport. However, chick mortality during the first week of life was related with the percentage of day-old chicks loaded per journey and chick gender. In conclusion, owing to the environmental heterogeneity during transport and the effect of the environment on chick weight during transport and mortality at first week of life, there is an urgent need to refine the air-conditioning and ventilation systems of day-old chick transport toward a greater environmental homogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Yerpes
- Animal Nutrition and Welfare Service, Department of Animal and Food Science, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra E-08193, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - P Llonch
- Animal Nutrition and Welfare Service, Department of Animal and Food Science, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra E-08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Manteca
- Animal Nutrition and Welfare Service, Department of Animal and Food Science, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra E-08193, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Bhowmick B, Lin F, Zhao J, Guan Q, Liao C, Han Q. An efficient high-welfare feeding device for assessing northern fowl mite interventions in vivo: an improved method for the identification of protective antigens/systemic acaricides/repellent effect. Vet Parasitol 2020; 288:109279. [PMID: 33129185 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109279] [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: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The northern fowl mite (NFM), Ornithonyssus sylviarum, is an obligate hematophagous ectoparasite of domestic and wild birds, and it is an economic pest of laying hen in North America, China, India, Australia, Myanmar, and Brazil. Such an economically important pest remains neglected in many parts of the world, including Asian countries. Therefore, concerted action is required in both basic and applied research directed at the biology and control of this destructive pest. In the present study, we have developed a novel, high-welfare in vivo feeding capsule that would permit pre-screening of new interventions, repellency and deterrence effects of plant-derived products and other semiochemical compounds before proceeding to large-scale field experiments/bioassays, while the minimum number of animals is required to obtain results. Mites were fed on the birds through either a mesh or without a mesh. The average feeding rates of mites was significantly higher when fed directly on chickens, whereas 106 μm nylon mesh was the top-performing mesh when compared with 125 μm aperture nylon mesh. For optimal feeding, the feeding capsules contain NFM and are attached to the skin of the chicken's thigh for 6 h. This is a simple, reproducible, and easy approach and can be adapted to facilitate many aspects of bioassays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajit Bhowmick
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Fang Lin
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Qingfeng Guan
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Chenghong Liao
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Qian Han
- Laboratory of Tropical Veterinary Medicine and Vector Biology, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, China.
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Transforming the Adaptation Physiology of Farm Animals through Sensors. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091512. [PMID: 32859060 PMCID: PMC7552204 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Strategy for the protection and welfare of farm animals, and the sustainable animal production is dependent on the thorough understanding of the adaptation physiology. Real-time, continuous, and precise measurement of the multi-dimensions and complex intricacies of adaptive capacity of farm animals namely the mental, behavioral, and physiological states are possible only through the sensor-based approaches. This paper critically reviews the latest sensor technologies as assessment tools for the adaptation physiology of farm animals and explores their advantages over traditional measurement methods. Digital innovation, diagnostics, genetic testing, biosensors, and wearable animal devices are important tools that enable the development of decision support farming platforms and provides the path for predicting diseases in livestock. Sensor fusion data from a multitude of biochemical, emotional, and physiological functions of the farm animals not only helps to identify the most productive animal but also allows farmers to predict which individual animal may have greater resilience to common diseases. Insights into the cost of adoption of sensor technologies on farms including computing capacity, human resources in training, and the sensor hardware are being discussed. Abstract Despite recent scientific advancements, there is a gap in the use of technology to measure signals, behaviors, and processes of adaptation physiology of farm animals. Sensors present exciting opportunities for sustained, real-time, non-intrusive measurement of farm animal behavioral, mental, and physiological parameters with the integration of nanotechnology and instrumentation. This paper critically reviews the sensing technology and sensor data-based models used to explore biological systems such as animal behavior, energy metabolism, epidemiology, immunity, health, and animal reproduction. The use of sensor technology to assess physiological parameters can provide tremendous benefits and tools to overcome and minimize production losses while making positive contributions to animal welfare. Of course, sensor technology is not free from challenges; these devices are at times highly sensitive and prone to damage from dirt, dust, sunlight, color, fur, feathers, and environmental forces. Rural farmers unfamiliar with the technologies must be convinced and taught to use sensor-based technologies in farming and livestock management. While there is no doubt that demand will grow for non-invasive sensor-based technologies that require minimum contact with animals and can provide remote access to data, their true success lies in the acceptance of these technologies by the livestock industry.
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