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Huijsmans TERG, Van Soom A, Smits K, Wauters J, Hagan D, Hildebrandt TB. Elephant Gestation: Insights Into Idiopathic Abortions and Stillbirth. Zoo Biol 2024. [PMID: 39258751 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
The declining African and Asian elephant populations emphasize the importance of a backup population. Successful reproduction in captivity plays a key role in maintaining such a genetically diverse ex situ population but is challenged by reproductive loss in the form of abortions and stillbirths. The elephants' biphasic prolactin pattern led us to predict a higher incidence of abortions during the time of reduced prolactin concentrations. Therefore, this study focuses on the identification of months during elephant gestation which are prone to loss of pregnancy. A metric was developed to identify the fetal age of aborted calves based on the fetal mass using a regression model. Data on idiopathic abortions in captive and wild elephants collected from zoos, tourist camps, semi-captive, and free-ranging populations since 1974 were analyzed, revealing a significantly higher prevalence of abortions during the 15th and 17th month of gestation. Additionally, the prevalence of stillbirths in the 22nd month of gestation between 2000 and 2023 was assessed. Although stillbirths showed a declining trend over time, the average prevalence between 2019 and 2023 was still 2.8%. Consequently, the 15th, 17th, and 22nd month of gestation were identified as stages prone to pregnancy loss. These findings underscore the necessity of researching risk factors and preventative measures for pregnancy loss in these 3 months, especially exploring a possible link with prolactin during the 15th and 17th month of gestation. The identification of stages prone to fetal loss is a key step towards enhancing elephant reproductive success and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim E R G Huijsmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Jella Wauters
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - David Hagan
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Suriya-Arunroj L, Chimngam M, Chamnongpakdee C, Sing-Ayudthaya T, Linchekhaw C, Kongsombat N, Suttisan N. Behavioral Training in First-Generation Long-Tailed Macaques ( Macaca fascicularis) for Improved Husbandry and Veterinary Procedures. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2369. [PMID: 39199903 PMCID: PMC11350816 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Owing to their similarities to humans in various aspects, non-human primates (NHPs) serve as valuable translational models that has greatly contributed to scientific advancements. However, working with untrained NHPs can cause stress and increase the risk of injuries to both animals and care staff, compromising both animal welfare and occupational safety. Behavioral training, that benefits from animals' learning abilities to gain their cooperation during husbandry and veterinary procedures, is a well-established method to mitigate these risks. Cynomolgus monkeys, in particular, are known for being despotic, fearful, and challenging to train. Moreover, our first-generation breeders were wild-sourced from human-macaque conflict areas in Thailand. These macaque populations are accustomed with human contact; hence, their prior experience can either work for or against behavioral shaping plans. Establishing a training program with realistic expectations would benefit both the animals and trainers. In this study, six cynomolgus monkeys were selected based on temperament, then underwent a pilot training program that included basic husbandry and veterinary procedures. Over 256 training sessions with gradual shaping plans, all six monkeys went through all training steps, with progress varying considerably among individuals. Cortisol levels were measured to monitor stress responses, revealing a notable sex difference: female monkeys generally complied more easily with the trainer but exhibited a stronger cortisol increase compared to males. This study proposed a behavioral training program grounded in three essential components: temperament assessment, behavioral shaping plans, and the cortisol-based criteria for evaluating training success.
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Johnston SD, Hulse L, Keeley T, Mucci A, Seddon J, Maynard S. The Utility of the Koala Scat: A Scoping Review. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:523. [PMID: 39056716 PMCID: PMC11273466 DOI: 10.3390/biology13070523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The use of samples or scats to provide important ecological, genetic, disease and physiology details on free-range populations is gaining popularity as an alternative non-invasive methodology. Koala populations in SE Queensland and NSW have recently been listed as endangered and continue to face anthropomorphic and stochastic environmental impacts that could potentially lead to their extinction. This scoping review examines the current and potential utility of the koala scat to contribute data relevant to the assessment of koala conservation status and decision making. Although we demonstrate that there is great potential for this methodology in providing details for both individual wild animal and population biology (distribution, abundance, sex ratio, immigration/emigration, genetic diversity, evolutionary significant unit, disease epidemiology, nutrition, reproductive status and stress physiology), the calibre of this information is likely to be a function of the quality of the scat that is sampled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D. Johnston
- School of Environment, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (L.H.); (T.K.); (A.M.)
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia;
| | - Lyndal Hulse
- School of Environment, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (L.H.); (T.K.); (A.M.)
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia;
| | - Tamara Keeley
- School of Environment, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (L.H.); (T.K.); (A.M.)
| | - Albano Mucci
- School of Environment, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia; (L.H.); (T.K.); (A.M.)
| | - Jennifer Seddon
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia;
- Research Division, James Cook University, Townsville 4811, Australia
| | - Sam Maynard
- Saunders Havill Group, Bowen Hills 4006, Australia;
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Tran T, Xie S. Mitigating Wildlife Spillover in the Clinical Setting: How Physicians and Veterinarians Can Help Prevent Future Disease Outbreaks. AJPM FOCUS 2024; 3:100193. [PMID: 38379958 PMCID: PMC10876620 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2024.100193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The transmission of pathogens from wildlife to humans is a major global health threat that has been highlighted by the proposed origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Numerous barriers impede pathogen spillover events from ensuing widespread human transmission, but human activity has accelerated the frequency of spillovers and subsequent disease outbreaks, in part through a booming wildlife trade whose impacts on health are not well understood. Methods A literature review was conducted to examine the risk that the wildlife trade poses to public health and the degree to which these risks are recognized and addressed in clinical practice and medical and veterinary education. Results The illicit aspects of the wildlife trade challenge efforts to understand its impacts on health. The U.S. and Europe play a leading role in the global wildlife trade that often goes unacknowledged. In particular, the consumption of wild meat and ownership of exotic pets poses public health risks. The potential role of clinicians is underutilized, both in the clinical setting and in clinical education. Discussion Physicians and veterinarians have the unique opportunity to utilize their clinical roles to address these knowledge gaps and mitigate future outbreaks. We outline a multifaceted approach that includes increasing clinical knowledge about the ecology of zoonotic diseases, leveraging opportunities for mitigation during patient/client-clinician interactions, and incorporating One Health core competencies into medical and veterinary school curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam Tran
- Department of Biology, Penn Arts & Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sherrie Xie
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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5
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Carrilho M, Monarca RI, Aparício G, Mathias MDL, Tapisso JT, von Merten S. Physiological and behavioural adjustment of a wild rodent to laboratory conditions. Physiol Behav 2024; 273:114385. [PMID: 37866641 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Wild animals are brought to captivity for different reasons, for example to be kept in zoos and rehabilitation centres, but also for basic research. Such animals usually undergo a process of adjustment to captive conditions. While this adjustment occurs on the behavioural and the physiological level, those are usually studied separately. The aim of this study was to assess both the physiological and behavioural responses of wild wood mice, Apodemus sylvaticus, while adjusting to laboratory conditions. Over the course of four weeks, we measured in wild-caught mice brought to the laboratory faecal corticosterone metabolites and body mass as physiological parameters, stereotypic behaviour and nest-quality, as welfare-linked behavioural parameters, and four personality measures as additional behavioural parameters. The results of our study indicate that mice exhibited an adjustment in both behaviour and physiology over time in the laboratory. While the hormonal stress response decreased significantly, body mass and the proportion of stereotypic behaviours showed a tendency to increase over time. The slight increase of stereotypic behaviours, although not statistically significant, suggests the development of repetitive and non-functional behaviours as a response to laboratory conditions. However, we suggest that those behaviours might have been used by animals as a coping strategy to decrease the physiological stress response. Other behavioural parameters measured, such as boldness and nestbuilding behaviour were stable over time. The information obtained in the present study hints at a complex interplay between behavioural and physiological adjustments of wild animals to laboratory conditions, which should be considered when intending to use wild animals in experimental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maílis Carrilho
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal.
| | - Rita I Monarca
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal
| | - Guilherme Aparício
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal
| | - Maria da Luz Mathias
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal
| | - Joaquim T Tapisso
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal
| | - Sophie von Merten
- CESAM - Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal; Department of Environment and Biodiversity, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunner Straße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
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6
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Turko AJ, Firth BL, Craig PM, Eliason EJ, Raby GD, Borowiec BG. Physiological differences between wild and captive animals: a century-old dilemma. J Exp Biol 2023; 226:jeb246037. [PMID: 38031957 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Laboratory-based research dominates the fields of comparative physiology and biomechanics. The power of lab work has long been recognized by experimental biologists. For example, in 1932, Georgy Gause published an influential paper in Journal of Experimental Biology describing a series of clever lab experiments that provided the first empirical test of competitive exclusion theory, laying the foundation for a field that remains active today. At the time, Gause wrestled with the dilemma of conducting experiments in the lab or the field, ultimately deciding that progress could be best achieved by taking advantage of the high level of control offered by lab experiments. However, physiological experiments often yield different, and even contradictory, results when conducted in lab versus field settings. This is especially concerning in the Anthropocene, as standard laboratory techniques are increasingly relied upon to predict how wild animals will respond to environmental disturbances to inform decisions in conservation and management. In this Commentary, we discuss several hypothesized mechanisms that could explain disparities between experimental biology in the lab and in the field. We propose strategies for understanding why these differences occur and how we can use these results to improve our understanding of the physiology of wild animals. Nearly a century beyond Gause's work, we still know remarkably little about what makes captive animals different from wild ones. Discovering these mechanisms should be an important goal for experimental biologists in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy J Turko
- Department of Biology, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3C5
| | - Britney L Firth
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3G1
| | - Paul M Craig
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3G1
| | - Erika J Eliason
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
| | - Graham D Raby
- Department of Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada, K9L 0G2
| | - Brittney G Borowiec
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada, N2L 3G1
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Chancellor S, Grasse B, Sakmar T, Scheel D, Brown JS, Santymire RM. Exploring the Effect of Age on the Reproductive and Stress Physiology of Octopus bimaculoides Using Dermal Hormones. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3115. [PMID: 37835721 PMCID: PMC10571824 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Our goal was to validate the use of dermal swabs to evaluate both reproductive and stress physiology in the California two-spot octopus, Octopus bimaculoides. Our objectives were to (1) use dermal swabs to evaluate glucocorticoids and reproductive hormones of O. bimaculoides; (2) determine the influence of life stage on hormone production (glucocorticoids in all individuals; testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone in females; and testosterone in males) of reproductive (n = 4) and senescent (n = 8) individuals to determine the effect of age on hormonal patterns; and (3) determine whether these hormones change significantly in response to an acute stressor. For the stress test, individuals were first swabbed for a baseline and then chased around the aquarium with a net for 5 min. Afterward, individuals were swabbed for 2 h at 15 min intervals to compare to the pre-stress test swab. Reproductive individuals responded to the stressor with a 2-fold increase in dermal cortisol concentrations at 15 and 90 min. Six of the eight senescent individuals did not produce a 2-fold increase in dermal cortisol concentrations. Reproductive individuals had significantly higher sex hormone concentrations compared to senescent individuals (progesterone and estradiol measured in females, and testosterone for both sexes). After the stressor, only reproductive males produced a 2-fold increase in dermal testosterone concentrations, while sex hormones in females showed no change. The stress hormone cortisol was significantly higher in senescent than in reproductive individuals, independent of sex. Dermal corticosterone concentrations were highest in senescent females followed by senescent males, and lowest in reproductive individuals regardless of sex. Dermal swabs provide an effective and noninvasive means for evaluating octopus hormones. Application of these indicators may be imperative as cephalopods are more commonly cultured in captivity for experimentation, display, and consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bret Grasse
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA; (B.G.); (T.S.)
| | - Taylor Sakmar
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA; (B.G.); (T.S.)
| | - David Scheel
- Institute of Culture and the Environment, Alaska Pacific University, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA;
| | - Joel S. Brown
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
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8
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Cowen S, Sims C, Ottewell K, Knox F, Friend T, Mills H, Garretson S, Rayner K, Gibson L. Return to 1616: Multispecies Fauna Reconstruction Requires Thinking Outside the Box. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2762. [PMID: 37685026 PMCID: PMC10486414 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conservation translocations have become increasingly popular for 'rewilding' areas that have lost their native fauna. These multispecies translocations are complex and need to consider the requirements of each individual species as well as the influence of likely interactions among them. The Dirk Hartog Island National Park Ecological Restoration Project, Return to 1616, aspires to restore ecological function to Western Australia's largest island. Since 2012, pest animals have been eradicated, and conservation translocations of seven fauna species have been undertaken, with a further six planned. Here, we present a synthesis of the innovative approaches undertaken in restoring the former faunal assemblage of Dirk Hartog Island and the key learnings gathered as the project has progressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul Cowen
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Colleen Sims
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
| | - Kym Ottewell
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kensington, WA 6151, Australia;
| | - Fiona Knox
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Tony Friend
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Albany, WA 6330, Australia;
| | - Harriet Mills
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, South Perth, WA 6951, Australia;
| | - Sean Garretson
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
| | - Kelly Rayner
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
| | - Lesley Gibson
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6026, Australia; (C.S.); (F.K.); (S.G.); (K.R.); (L.G.)
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Kensington, WA 6151, Australia;
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Florkowski MR, Hamer SA, Yorzinski JL. Brief exposure to captivity in a songbird is associated with reduced diversity and altered composition of the gut microbiome. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2023; 99:fiad096. [PMID: 37586886 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiad096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is important for host fitness and is influenced by many factors including the host's environment. Captive environments could potentially influence the richness and composition of the microbiome and understanding these effects could be useful information for the care and study of millions of animals in captivity. While previous studies have found that the microbiome often changes due to captivity, they have not examined how quickly these changes can occur. We predicted that the richness of the gut microbiome of wild-caught birds would decrease with brief exposure to captivity and that their microbiome communities would become more homogeneous. To test these predictions, we captured wild house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and collected fecal samples to measure their gut microbiomes immediately after capture ("wild sample") and again 5-10 days after capture ("captive sample"). There were significant differences in beta diversity between the wild and captive samples, and captive microbiome communities were more homogenous but only when using nonphylogenetic measures. Alpha diversity of the birds' microbiomes also decreased in captivity. The functional profiles of the microbiome changed, possibly reflecting differences in stress or the birds' diets before and during captivity. Overall, we found significant changes in the richness and composition of the microbiome after only a short exposure to captivity. These findings highlight the necessity of considering microbiome changes in captive animals for research and conservation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie R Florkowski
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program, Texas A&M University, 534 John Kimbrough Blvd, College Station, TX 77845, United States
| | - Sarah A Hamer
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program, Texas A&M University, 534 John Kimbrough Blvd, College Station, TX 77845, United States
- Schubot Center for Avian Health, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 701 Farm to Market Service Road, College Station, TX 77840, United States
| | - Jessica L Yorzinski
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program, Texas A&M University, 534 John Kimbrough Blvd, College Station, TX 77845, United States
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, 534 John Kimbrough Blvd, College Station, TX 77845, United States
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10
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Pereira KE, Bletz MC, McCartney JA, Woodhams DC, Woodley SK. Effects of exogenous elevation of corticosterone on immunity and the skin microbiome of eastern newts ( Notophthalmus viridescens). Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220120. [PMID: 37305906 PMCID: PMC10258667 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) threatens salamander biodiversity. The factors underlying Bsal susceptibility may include glucocorticoid hormones (GCs). The effects of GCs on immunity and disease susceptibility are well studied in mammals, but less is known in other groups, including salamanders. We used Notophthalmus viridescens (eastern newts) to test the hypothesis that GCs modulate salamander immunity. We first determined the dose required to elevate corticosterone (CORT; primary GC in amphibians) to physiologically relevant levels. We then measured immunity (neutrophil lymphocyte ratios, plasma bacterial killing ability (BKA), skin microbiome, splenocytes, melanomacrophage centres (MMCs)) and overall health in newts following treatment with CORT or an oil vehicle control. Treatments were repeated for a short (two treatments over 5 days) or long (18 treatments over 26 days) time period. Contrary to our predictions, most immune and health parameters were similar for CORT and oil-treated newts. Surprisingly, differences in BKA, skin microbiome and MMCs were observed between newts subjected to short- and long-term treatments, regardless of treatment type (CORT, oil vehicle). Taken together, CORT does not appear to be a major factor contributing to immunity in eastern newts, although more studies examining additional immune factors are necessary. This article is part of the theme issue 'Amphibian immunity: stress, disease and ecoimmunology'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenzie E. Pereira
- Department of Biology, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA
| | - Molly C. Bletz
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Julia A. McCartney
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Douglas C. Woodhams
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Sarah K. Woodley
- Department of Biology, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA
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11
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Falconer S, McAdie M, Mastromonaco G, Schulte-Hostedde AI. Assessing stress physiology within a conservation breeding program for an endangered species. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad041. [PMID: 38026799 PMCID: PMC10660376 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Conservation breeding programs typically involve the management of individuals both in and ex situ, so it is vital to understand how the physiology of managed species changes in these environments to maximize program outcomes. The Vancouver Island marmot (VIM; Marmota vancouverensis) is one species that has been managed in a conservation breeding program to recover the critically low wild population. Previous research has shown there are differences in hair glucocorticoid concentrations for VIMs in different managed groups in the program. Therefore, we used >1000 blood samples collected since the program's inception to assess the neutrophil to lymphocyte (N:L) ratio among captive, pre-release, post-release and wild populations as another metric of stress. In situ VIM populations were found to have a significantly higher N:L ratio than ex situ populations, suggesting that the wild is a more physiologically challenging environment than managed care. Moreover, the effect of age, sex and the month of sampling on the N:L ratio were found to be different for each population. Age had the greatest magnitude of effect in the wild population, and sex was only significant in ex situ populations. This study provided previously unknown insights into the physiology of VIMs and increased post-release monitoring will be useful in the future to fully understand how physiology may be contributing to differences in survival of VIMs in the program.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Falconer
- Department of Biology/School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd, Sudbury, Canada, ON P3E 2C6
| | - M McAdie
- Marmot Recovery Foundation, PO Box 2332 Stn A, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 6X6
| | - G Mastromonaco
- Reproductive Sciences Unit, Toronto Zoo, 361A Old Finch Avenue, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, M1B 5K7
| | - A I Schulte-Hostedde
- Department of Biology/School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, S-614, Science Building, 935, Ramsey Lake Rd, Sudbury, Canada, ON P3E 2C6
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12
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Barbosa-Moyano H, Sobral G, de Oliveira CA. Glucocorticoid metabolites in an ex situ nocturnal bird, the tropical screech owl Megascops choliba: effects of sex, activity period and inter-individual variation. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad016. [PMID: 37101705 PMCID: PMC10123863 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids mediate physiological processes to obtain energy, presenting daily variation in basal levels that may be related to behavioural activity pattern. Identification of plasticity in the secretion of these hormones is essential to understand their effects on physiology and behaviour of wild birds and, therefore, their success in their natural or artificial environment. Serial endocrine evaluations are facilitated by implementing non-invasive methodologies that minimize possible effects of manipulation on the animal's physiological variables. However, non-invasive endocrine-behavioural studies in nocturnal birds, such as owls, are immature. The present work aimed to validate an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to quantify glucocorticoid metabolites (MGC) in Megascops choliba as well as to evaluate differences in their production at the individual, sexual or daily level. We recorded the behaviour of nine owls during three continuous days to establish activity budget under captive conditions and aiming to correlate with daily MGC variation. The EIA proved to be effective in analytical assays and in pharmacological testing with synthetic ACTH, validating this immunoassay for the species. Additionally, individual differences in MGC production were confirmed in relation to the time of day, especially at 1700 and 2100, but not in relation to sex. During night hours, the owls showed greater behavioural activity, positively related to MGC values. Higher MGC concentrations were significantly related to greater expressions of active behaviours, such as maintenance, while lower MGC concentrations were recorded during moments of higher alertness and resting. The results presented show daily MGC variation to be inversed in this nocturnal species. Our findings can aid future theoretical studies of daily rhythm and evaluations of challenging and/or disturbing situations that result in changes in behaviour or hormonal cascades of these changes in ex situ populations of owls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Barbosa-Moyano
- Corresponding author: Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, CEP: 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil. Tel: +55 11 94856-3251;
| | - Gisela Sobral
- Instituto de Biodiversidade e Sustentabilidade NUPEM/UFRJ, Av. São José do Barreto, 764–São José do Barreto, Macaé – Rio de Janeiro (RJ), 27965-045, Brazil
| | - Claudio Alvarenga de Oliveira
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, CEP: 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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Carsia RV, McIlroy PJ, John-Alder HB. Invited review: Adrenocortical function in avian and non-avian reptiles: Insights from dispersed adrenocortical cells. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2023; 281:111424. [PMID: 37080352 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2023.111424] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Herein we review our work involving dispersed adrenocortical cells from several lizard species: the Eastern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus undulatus), Yarrow's Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus jarrovii), Striped Plateau Lizard (Sceloporus virgatus) and the Yucatán Banded Gecko (Coleonyx elegans). Early work demonstrated changes in steroidogenic function of adrenocortical cells derived from adult S. undulatus associated with seasonal interactions with sex. However, new information suggests that both sexes operate within the same steroidogenic budget over season. The observed sex effect was further explored in orchiectomized and ovariectomized lizards, some supported with exogenous testosterone. Overall, a suppressive effect of testosterone was evident, especially in cells from C. elegans. Life stage added to this complex picture of adrenal steroidogenic function. This was evident when sexually mature and immature Sceloporus lizards were subjected to a nutritional stressor, cricket restriction/deprivation. There were divergent patterns of corticosterone, aldosterone, and progesterone responses and associated sensitivities of each to corticotropin (ACTH). Finally, we provide strong evidence that there are multiple, labile subpopulations of adrenocortical cells. We conclude that the rapid (days) remodeling of adrenocortical steroidogenic function through fluctuating cell subpopulations drives the circulating corticosteroid profile of Sceloporus lizard species. Interestingly, progesterone and aldosterone may be more important with corticosterone serving as essential supportive background. In the wild, the flux in adrenocortical cell subpopulations may be adversely susceptible to climate-change related disruptions in food sources and to xenobiotic/endocrine-disrupting chemicals. We urge further studies using native lizard species as bioindicators of local pollutants and as models to examine the broader eco-exposome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco V Carsia
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, 2 Medical Center Drive, Stratford, NJ 08084, United States.
| | - Patrick J McIlroy
- Department of Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Rutgers University, 311 North Fifth Street, Camden, NJ 08102, United States
| | - Henry B John-Alder
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, The Pinelands Field Station Rutgers University, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
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Dallas JW, Warne RW. Captivity and Animal Microbiomes: Potential Roles of Microbiota for Influencing Animal Conservation. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2023; 85:820-838. [PMID: 35316343 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-022-01991-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
During the ongoing biodiversity crisis, captive conservation and breeding programs offer a refuge for species to persist and provide source populations for reintroduction efforts. Unfortunately, captive animals are at a higher disease risk and reintroduction efforts remain largely unsuccessful. One potential factor in these outcomes is the host microbiota which includes a large diversity and abundance of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that play an essential role in host physiology. Relative to wild populations, the generalized pattern of gut and skin microbiomes in captivity are reduced alpha diversity and they exhibit a significant shift in community composition and/or structure which often correlates with various physiological maladies. Many conditions of captivity (antibiotic exposure, altered diet composition, homogenous environment, increased stress, and altered intraspecific interactions) likely lead to changes in the host-associated microbiome. To minimize the problems arising from captivity, efforts can be taken to manipulate microbial diversity and composition to be comparable with wild populations through methods such as increasing dietary diversity, exposure to natural environmental reservoirs, or probiotics. For individuals destined for reintroduction, these strategies can prime the microbiota to buffer against novel pathogens and changes in diet and improve reintroduction success. The microbiome is a critical component of animal physiology and its role in species conservation should be expanded and included in the repertoire of future management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason W Dallas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University, 1125 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA.
| | - Robin W Warne
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University, 1125 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
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15
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Njoga EO, Ilo SU, Nwobi OC, Onwumere-Idolor OS, Ajibo FE, Okoli CE, Jaja IF, Oguttu JW. Pre-slaughter, slaughter and post-slaughter practices of slaughterhouse workers in Southeast, Nigeria: Animal welfare, meat quality, food safety and public health implications. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282418. [PMID: 36867613 PMCID: PMC9983863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-slaughter stress or the welfare condition of food-producing animals (FPAs) and the slaughter practices of slaughterhouse workers (SHWs) are critically important for the safety and quality of meats processed in slaughterhouses (SHs). Consequently, this study determined the pre-slaughter, slaughter, and post-slaughter (PSP) practices of SHWsin four SHs in Southeast, Nigeria; and discussed the impacts on meat quality and safety. METHODS The PSP practices were determined by observation method. Additionally, a structured and validated closed-ended questionnaire was used to determine the knowledge of the SHWs on: the effects of poor welfare (preslaughter stress) on the quality and safety of meats produced, carcass/meat processing practices and modes of transmission of meat-borne zoonotic pathogens during carcass/meat processing. Finally, a systematic post-mortem inspection (PMI) was conducted on cattle, pigs and goats slaughtered, and economic losses accruable from condemned carcasses/meats were estimated. RESULTS Food-producing animals were transported to the SHs or held in the lairage under inhumane conditions. A pig being conveyed to one of the SHs was seen gasping for air, as it was firmly tied on motorbike at the thoracic and abdominal regions. Fatigued cattle were forcefully dragged on the ground from the lairage to the killing floor. Cattle for slaughter were restrained, held in lateral recumbency and left groaning, due to extreme discomfort, for about one hour before slaughter. Stunning was not performed. Singed pig carcasses were dragged on the ground to the washing point. Although more than 50% of the respondents knew the modes of transmission of meat-borne zoonotic pathogens during meat processing, 71.3% of the SHWs processed carcasses on bare floor, 52.2% used same bowl of water to wash multiple carcasses while 72% did not wear personal protective equipment during meat/carcass processing. Processed meats were transported to meat shops in an unsanitary conditions, using open vans and tricycles. During the PMI, diseased carcasses/meats/organs were detected in 5.7% (83/1452), 2.1% (21/1006) and 0.8% (7/924) of the cattle, pig and goat carcasses inspected, respectively. Gross lesions pathognomonic of bovine tuberculosis, contagious bovine pleuro-pneumonia, fascioliasis and porcine cysticercosis were detected. Consequently, 391,089.2 kg of diseased meat/organs valued at 978 million Naira (235, 030 USD) were condemned. There were significant associations (p < 0.05) between educational level and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during slaughterhouse operations and knowledge that FPAs can harbour zoonotic pathogens (p = < 0.001) transmissible during carcass processing. Similarly, significant association was observed between working experience and use of PPE; and between geographical location of the respondents and knowledge that zoonotic pathogens in animals are transmissible during carcass processing or via the food chain. CONCLUSION The findings show that slaughter practices of SHWs have detrimental impacts on the quality and safety of meats processed for human consumption in Southeast, Nigeria. These findings underscore the need to: improve the welfare condition of slaughter-animals, mechanise abattoir operations, train and retrain the SHWs on hygienic carcass/meat processing practices. There is a need to adopt strict enforcement of food safety laws to promote meat quality, food safety and consequently promote the health of the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel O. Njoga
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Stanley U. Ilo
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Obichukwu C. Nwobi
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Onyinye S. Onwumere-Idolor
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Festus E. Ajibo
- Department of Animal Health and Production, Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, Nigeria
| | - Chinwe E. Okoli
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Ishmael F. Jaja
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - James W. Oguttu
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa
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16
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Gartland KN, Bovee E, Fuller G. Impact of alternating overnight housing conditions on welfare measures in a bachelor group of western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). Am J Primatol 2023; 85:e23443. [PMID: 36222284 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Spatial parameters and design of overnight housing spaces can have significant influences on both nocturnal and diurnal behaviors of western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) in captivity. This is especially true for bachelor groups, as adult males have demonstrated a greater tendency to separate from conspecifics overnight. Additionally, previous studies have suggested that the social needs of individuals in bachelor units may shift over time. The bachelor unit at the Detroit Zoo is managed in a unique hybrid strategy in which the group is housed socially for three nights (either indoors or indoors with outdoor access), then separately on the fourth. A 2016 study of this group (n = 3) suggested that individuals had better welfare following social overnight housing as compared to solitary overnight housing. We aimed to reassess how overnight housing conditions affect individual welfare several years later. We revised a previously developed qualitative behavioral assessment tool that included 13 behavioral items spanning both positive and negative indicators of welfare. Animal care staff completed the assessment and collected a fecal sample every day for each gorilla for a period of 3 months. We used Kruskal-Wallis tests to analyze variation in behavioral items and FGMs between conditions. We then used generalized linear mixed models to identify whether overnight housing condition or other potentially confounding variables were driving observed variation in welfare indicators. We found significant variation demonstrating significantly better welfare indicators after being housed separately as compared to being socially housed indoors overnight. Although separate housing appears to be the ideal condition for this group at this point in time, if seasonality permits, social housing with outdoor access may be a feasible alternative to consistent overnight separation for these gorillas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylen N Gartland
- Center for Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare and Ethics, Detroit Zoological Society, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Bovee
- Center for Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare and Ethics, Detroit Zoological Society, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
| | - Grace Fuller
- Center for Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare and Ethics, Detroit Zoological Society, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA
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17
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So-In C. Influence of goat management systems on hematological, oxidative stress profiles, and parasitic gastrointestinal infection. Vet World 2023; 16:483-490. [PMID: 37041825 PMCID: PMC10082745 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.483-490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Good management in goats is known for good quality health and increasing productivity. The physiological change studies in goats are limited despite some existing studies on the relationship of various patterns to growth rates. This study aimed to determine the hematological parameters, oxidative stress, and parasitic infection in three management systems in Thai native goats.
Materials and Methods: A total of 18 male goats were randomly assigned to the three systems: The free-range model (FREE), the semi-intensive model (SEMI), and the kept-in-a-cage model (BARN) for 35 days. Blood, fecal sampling, and weight data were collected and monitored every 5 days for analysis.
Results: No statistical differences were found in the FREE and SEMI groups, but significance was observed in the BARN group. The body weight of the goats gradually reduced from 13.0 ± 2.44 kg to 10.18 ± 2.61 kg (mean ± standard deviation). In contrast, the significantly increasing red blood cells, packed-cell volume, white blood cells, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (N/L) ratio, cortisol hormone, and antioxidation profiles were observed to be higher in BARN than in FREE and SEMI groups. The intensity of the parasite eggs was remarkably significant. It was observed in the BARN group between the beginning and end of the experiment (supported by a high level of eosinophils).
Conclusion: These data can be applied for the realistic evaluation and improvement of management practices, especially fully restrained management (BARN) for monitoring the health status of goats.
Keywords: goat, hematology values, management systems, oxidative stress, parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charinya So-In
- Department of Veterinary Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Kalasin University, Kalasin 46000, Thailand
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18
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Defining Short-Term Accommodation for Animals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040732. [PMID: 36830519 PMCID: PMC9952406 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The terms short-term, temporary, and transitional are related but can have different contexts and meanings for animal husbandry. The definitions and use of these terms can be pivotal to animal housing and welfare. We conducted three separate literature searches using Google Scholar for relevant reports regarding short-term, temporary, or transitional animal husbandry, and analysed key publications that stipulate relevant periods of accommodation. English Government guidance regarding acceptable short-term, temporary, or transitional accommodation for animals varies widely from <1 day to 3 months; whereas independent scientific criteria and guidance use typical periods of hours to several days. Stipulations regarding acceptable short-term, temporary, or transitional accommodation, notably among English Government guidance, which we focused on in this study, were highly inconsistent and lacked scientific rationale. The definitions and use of terms for both formal and other guidance should be limited to precautionary time frames within one circadian cycle, i.e., periods of <24 h. At ≥24 h, all animals at all facilities should be accommodated in conditions that are consistent with long-term housing, husbandry, and best practices.
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Rojas-Sánchez E, Umaña-Blanco F, Jiménez-Rocha A, Vega-Benavides K, Medaglia A, Solano-Barquero A, Rojas A, Jiménez M. Cryptic diversity in a gastrointestinal acanthocephalan of New World primates from Costa Rica. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2402. [PMID: 36765145 PMCID: PMC9918474 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28585-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Prosthenorchis elegans is a worm of the family Archiacanthocephala that infects non-human primates in the Americas, producing an intestinal pathology that may compromise the life of its hosts. Squirrel monkeys, Saimiri oerstedii citrinellus, were found with P. elegans in Costa Rica. Histopathological analysis revealed a severe pyogranulomatous response composed by macrophages, neutrophils, eosinophils, fibroblasts and lymphocytes. Morphological worm analyses revealed 36 hooks in the proboscis distributed in six rows; and total body, hook and lemnisci length were compatible to the original descriptions of P. elegans. In addition, phylogenetic, haplotype network and genetic distance analyses were done on cytochrome oxidase subunit 1, cox1, sequences obtained from the collected specimens. Sequences obtained herein clustered separately with high posterior probabilities in a Bayesian Inference tree and showed 8.12% nucleotide differences when compared to P. elegans from Colombia. This high divergence was confirmed in the TCS network that separated Colombian and Costa Rican sequences by 32 mutational steps, a genetic distance PCA which separated sequences from both geographical locations by 89.5% and an FST value of 0.655, indicating the presence of cryptic diversity in P. elegans. Additional studies from specimens collected from other definitive hosts and geographical locations are required to better understand the biodiversity of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Rojas-Sánchez
- Hospital de Especies Menores y Silvestres, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Fabián Umaña-Blanco
- Laboratorio de Helmintología, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Ana Jiménez-Rocha
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Karen Vega-Benavides
- Hospital de Especies Menores y Silvestres, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Alejandro Medaglia
- Laboratorio Institucional de Microscopía, Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, Cartago, Costa Rica.,Escuela de Biología, Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, Cartago, Costa Rica
| | - Alberto Solano-Barquero
- Laboratorio de Helmintología, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.,Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Alicia Rojas
- Laboratorio de Helmintología, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica. .,Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
| | - Mauricio Jiménez
- Hospital de Especies Menores y Silvestres, Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Heredia, Costa Rica.
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20
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Bruneau RC, Tazi L, Rothenburg S. Cowpox Viruses: A Zoo Full of Viral Diversity and Lurking Threats. Biomolecules 2023; 13:325. [PMID: 36830694 PMCID: PMC9953750 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cowpox viruses (CPXVs) exhibit the broadest known host range among the Poxviridae family and have caused lethal outbreaks in various zoo animals and pets across 12 Eurasian countries, as well as an increasing number of human cases. Herein, we review the history of how the cowpox name has evolved since the 1700s up to modern times. Despite early documentation of the different properties of CPXV isolates, only modern genetic analyses and phylogenies have revealed the existence of multiple Orthopoxvirus species that are currently constrained under the CPXV designation. We further chronicle modern outbreaks in zoos, domesticated animals, and humans, and describe animal models of experimental CPXV infections and how these can help shaping CPXV species distinctions. We also describe the pathogenesis of modern CPXV infections in animals and humans, the geographic range of CPXVs, and discuss CPXV-host interactions at the molecular level and their effects on pathogenicity and host range. Finally, we discuss the potential threat of these viruses and the future of CPXV research to provide a comprehensive review of CPXVs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefan Rothenburg
- Department of Medial Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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21
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Marks CA, Allen L, Lindeberg H. Non-Lethal Dose-Response Models Replace Lethal Bioassays for Predicting the Hazard of Para-Aminopropiophenone to Australian Wildlife. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030472. [PMID: 36766361 PMCID: PMC9913665 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) is a potent methaemoglobin (MetHb) forming agent used for the lethal control of exotic carnivores and mustelids. To assess the sensitivity of Australian wildlife to PAPP we developed an in vivo assay that did not use death as an endpoint. Sub-lethal dose-response data were modelled to predict PAPP doses required to achieve an endpoint set at 80% MetHb (MetHb80). The comparative sensitivity of non-target mammals referenced to this endpoint was found to be highly variable, with southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus) the most sensitive species (MetHb80 = 6.3 mg kg-1) and bush rats (Rattus fuscipes) the most tolerant (MetHb80 = 1035 mg kg-1). Published LD50 estimates were highly correlated with PAPP doses modelled to achieve the MetHb80 endpoint (r2 = 0.99, p < 0.001). Most dose-response data for native mammals were collected in the field or in semi-natural enclosures, permitting PAPP and placebo dosed animals to be fitted with tracking transmitters and transponders and released at their point of capture. A protracted morbidity and mortality was observed only in Australian ravens (Corvus coronoides). The combination of sub-lethal dose-response assay and survival data collected in the field provided more relevant information about the actual hazard of pest control agents to non-target wildlife species than laboratory-based lethal-dose bioassays. We discuss the need to replace lethal-dose data with biologically meaningful insights able to define a continuum of toxicological hazards that better serve the needs of conservation and veterinary scientists and wildlife managers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive A. Marks
- Nocturnal Wildlife Research Pty Ltd., P.O. Box 2126, Melbourne, VIC 3145, Australia
- Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, Lincoln P.O. Box 69040, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
| | - Lee Allen
- Queensland Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia
| | - Heli Lindeberg
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Production Systems, Halolantie 31 A, FI-71750 Maaninka, Finland
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Lima AS, de Figueredo AC, Floreste FR, Garcia Neto PG, Gomes FR, Titon SCM. Temperature Extreme Events Decrease Endocrine and Immune Reactive Scope in Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus). Integr Comp Biol 2022; 62:1671-1682. [PMID: 35771987 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icac105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, effects of increased atmospheric temperature, in the context of ongoing climate change, have been investigated in multiple organisms and levels of biological organization. While there has been a focus on the impacts of increased mean temperature, an emergent and equally important point is the consequences of recurrent exposure to extreme temperature events, simulating heat waves. This study investigated the effects of serial exposure to high temperatures on immune and endocrine variables before and after exposure to an acute secondary stressor in bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus). Adult males were divided into three groups and subjected to three thermal regimes: control (c; constant 22°C); experimental 1 (E1; kept at 22°C and exposed to 4 days of 30°C every 16 days); and experimental 2 (E2; kept at 22°C and exposed to 4 days of 30°C every 6 days). Blood samples were collected on the last day of key extreme heat events. Two weeks after the last extreme heat event, animals were subjected to restraint stress (1 h) and sampled again. Blood samples were used to determine neutrophil: lymphocyte ratio, plasma bacterial killing ability, as well as, corticosterone and plasma testosterone levels. Overall, we found exposure to extreme heat events did not affect immune and endocrine variables over time. Meanwhile, the previous exposure to extreme heat events modulated the responsiveness to restraint. The amplitude of increased corticosterone plasma levels and neutrophil: lymphocyte ratio in response to restraint decreased with the number of previous exposures to extreme heat events. These results suggest that exposure to extreme climatic events has hidden effects on bullfrog's stress response, expressed as diminished reactive scope to a novel stressor. This represents a highly deleterious facet of climate change since diminished responsiveness prevents proper coping with wildlife challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Siqueira Lima
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Aymam Cobo de Figueredo
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Felipe Rangel Floreste
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Patrício Getúlio Garcia Neto
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Stefanny Christie Monteiro Titon
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
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Assis VR, Titon SCM, Titon B, Gomes FR. The Impacts of Transdermal Application of Corticosterone on Toad (Rhinella icterica) Immunity. Integr Comp Biol 2022; 62:1640-1653. [PMID: 35902322 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icac130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that acute physiological increases in endogenous glucocorticoid levels have immunostimulatory effects. Although post-acute stress immunosuppressive effects have also been described, the difference between enhancing and suppressing the immune response seems mediated by the stressor's duration, intensity, and the immune component under analysis. To elicit physiologically relevant corticosterone levels that can be found in Rhinella icterica toads after stressful events (e.g., restraint or captivity) and understand how acute increased glucocorticoid levels of different intensities affect corticosterone and testosterone plasma levels and immune parameters (in vitro plasma bacterial killing ability, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and in vivo phagocytosis of peritoneal leukocytes), we submitted toads to the transdermal application of two corticosterone doses (1 and 10 μg). Corticosterone transdermal application increased corticosterone plasma levels with different intensities: 3 times for 1 μg and fourteen times for 10 μg, compared to the vehicle, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio increased regardless of the corticosterone dose. However, there was no effect on testosterone levels and bacterial killing ability. Interestingly, both corticosterone doses promoted immunosuppression, decreasing peritoneal leukocytes' phagocytosis activity by 60% for toads receiving the dose of 1µg and 40% for those receiving 10 μg. Our results show the complexity of the relationship between increased corticosterone levels and immunomodulation. The different corticosterone doses promoted increases of distinct magnitudes in corticosterone plasma levels, with the less intense increase in corticosterone levels generating greater cell-mediated immunosuppression. Future studies using different corticosterone doses to achieve and compare physiological vs. pharmacological hormone levels are imperative to understanding these interrelationships between corticosterone and immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vania Regina Assis
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Stefanny Christie Monteiro Titon
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Braz Titon
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, trav. 14, 101, São Paulo, SP 05508-090, Brazil
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EFFECT OF BOMA CONFINEMENT ON HEMATOLOGIC AND BIOCHEMICAL VALUES IN FREE-RANGING WHITE RHINOCEROS (CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM) IN KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA. J Wildl Dis 2022; 58:735-745. [PMID: 36228618 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Boma adaptation is an important component of rhinoceros translocations to allow transition to new diets, restricted space, and quarantine for disease screening. However, up to 20% of recently captured white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) do not adjust to captivity, resulting in early release or even death. The causes and physiologic consequences of maladaptation to boma confinement are poorly understood. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate hematologic and serum biochemical changes in maladapted rhinoceros compared to animals that adapted under the same boma conditions. Ninety-six white rhinoceros were captured between 2009 and 2011 in Kruger National Park, South Africa and placed in bomas prior to translocation. Weight, complete blood count, and serum biochemical panel results were recorded when rhinoceros were placed in the boma and repeated on the day of release. In this study, the mean duration of boma confinement for maladapted white rhinoceros was 13 d (range 8-16 d) compared to 89.9 d (range 39-187 d) for adapted animals. Mean weight loss between capture and release was significantly greater in maladapted rhinoceros (224.0 versus 65.9 kgs; P<0.001). Although adapted rhinoceros had statistically significant changes in some hematologic and biochemical values, most were not considered clinically relevant. In contrast, the maladapted rhinoceros had significant changes at the time of early release from the boma, including evidence of leukocytosis with left shift, lymphopenia, eosinopenia, decreased red blood cell count and hematocrit, increased serum creatine kinase, and decreased serum calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium values. Along with loss of body condition, these findings were consistent with a stress-associated catabolic response. These changes occurred in the first 2 wk of confinement, and the results provide a foundation for evaluating adaptation in white rhinoceros. Future studies should focus on factors that improve adaptation and welfare of recently confined free-ranging white rhinoceros.
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Beattie UK, Estrada RS, Gormally BMG, McVey M, Romero LM. Background DNA damage is higher in summer than winter in both free-living and captive birds. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:789-794. [PMID: 35833487 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Although stress can cause overall damage to the genome, it is currently unknown whether normal background damage to DNA varies throughout the annual cycle. If DNA damage did vary seasonally, it would have major implications on environmental-genomic interactions. We measured background DNA double-stranded breaks using the neutral comet assay in five tissues (nucleated red blood cells, abdominal fat, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and liver) in four cohorts of house sparrows (Passer domesticus): free-living summer, captives on a summer light cycle, free-living winter, and captives on a winter light cycle. The experiment was designed to answer three questions: (1) Is red blood cell DNA damage representative of other tissues? (2) Is DNA damage in captive birds representative of DNA damage in free-living birds? (3) Does DNA damage show seasonality? We found that (1) blood is a representative tissue, (2) captive animals are representative of free-living animals, and (3) DNA damage is higher in the summer than in the winter. These data indicate that red blood cells can be an index of DNA damage throughout the body and that background levels of DNA damage show substantial seasonal variation. The latter result suggests the possibility that underlying molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and/or repair also change seasonally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula K Beattie
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rodolfo S Estrada
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brenna M G Gormally
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
- Seventh College, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Mitch McVey
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - L Michael Romero
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Soravia C, Ashton BJ, Ridley AR. Periorbital temperature responses to natural air temperature variation in wild birds. J Therm Biol 2022; 109:103323. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2022.103323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Kamgang VW, Bennett NC, van der Goot AC, Majelantle TL, Ganswindt A. Patterns of faecal glucocorticoid metabolite levels in captive roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) in relation to reproductive status and season. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 325:114052. [PMID: 35568230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2022.114052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Populations of roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) in southern Africa have experienced a drastic decline over the past few decades and this situation has led to the development of intensive breeding programmes to support conservation efforts. However, little is known about related welfare aspects, including stress-related physiological biomarkers. The present study set out to establish a non-invasive method to monitor faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations as a measure of stress and determine fGCM concentrations in relation to male reproductive activity and female reproductive status in the roan antelope. An adrenocorticotrophic hormone challenge was performed using two adult roan antelope (one male and one female) at Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve, South Africa, to determine the suitability of five enzyme immunoassays (EIA) for monitoring adrenocortical function in roan antelope. An 11-oxoaetiocholanolone I EIA detecting 11,17 dioxoandrostanes performed best showing 17-20 folds increases in fGCM concentrations after 12 h-17 h post-injection. The identified EIA was then used to monitor fGCM concentrations during active and non-active reproductive periods in males (n = 3), and during periods of cyclicity, gestation, and postpartum in females (n = 10). Males showed an overall 80% increase in fGCM concentrations when reproductively active and females showed a progressively significant increase in fGCM levels throughout pregnancy, with overall fGCM concentrations being 1.5 to 2.6-fold higher than the respective fGCM concentrations during periods of postpartum and cyclicity, respectively. Furthermore, fGCM concentrations remained above baseline for up to 21 days post-partum. A correlation between ecological parameters (rainfall and temperature) and fGCM concentrations revealed elevated fGCM concentrations during the dry season for males, but not females. The non-invasive method validated in this study provides a valuable tool to quantify stress-related biomarkers in roan antelope, and findings can be used to support management decisions in conservation breeding facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa W Kamgang
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.
| | - Nigel C Bennett
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Annemieke C van der Goot
- Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve, Vaalwater 0530, South Africa; Melkrivier Wildlife Veterinary Services, Melkrivier, Vaalwater 0530, South Africa
| | - Tshepiso L Majelantle
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
| | - Andre Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa
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Fountain K, Barbon A, Gibbon MJ, Lloyd DH, Loeffler A, Feil EJ. Staphylococcus aureus lineages associated with a free-ranging population of the fruit bat Pteropus livingstonii retained over 25 years in captivity. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13457. [PMID: 35931727 PMCID: PMC9355961 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17835-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Conservation of endangered species has become increasingly complex, and costly interventions to protect wildlife require a robust scientific evidence base. This includes consideration of the role of the microbiome in preserving animal health. Captivity introduces stressors not encountered in the wild including environmental factors and exposure to exotic species, humans and antimicrobial drugs. These stressors may perturb the microbiomes of wild animals, with negative consequences for their health and welfare and hence the success of the conservation project, and ultimately the risk of release of non-native organisms into native ecosystems. We compared the genomes of Staphylococcus aureus colonising critically endangered Livingstone’s fruit bats (Pteropus livingstonii) which have been in a captive breeding programme for 25 years, with those from bats in the endemic founder population free ranging in the Comoros Republic. Using whole genome sequencing, we compared 47 isolates from captive bats with 37 isolates from those free ranging in the Comoros Republic. Our findings demonstrate unexpected resilience in the bacteria carried, with the captive bats largely retaining the same two distinctive lineages carried at the time of capture. In addition, we found evidence of genomic changes which suggest specific adaptations to the bat host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Fountain
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - Alberto Barbon
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Caughall Road, Upton by Chester, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Marjorie J Gibbon
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - David H Lloyd
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Anette Loeffler
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Edward J Feil
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
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Correa AJS, Barros EM, Lopez VM, Guillermo-Ferreira R. Is item hiding a good enrichment strategy to reduce stereotypic behaviors and increase social interactions in captive female spectacled bears? J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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30
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Fagre AC, Cohen LE, Eskew EA, Farrell M, Glennon E, Joseph MB, Frank HK, Ryan SJ, Carlson CJ, Albery GF. Assessing the risk of human-to-wildlife pathogen transmission for conservation and public health. Ecol Lett 2022; 25:1534-1549. [PMID: 35318793 PMCID: PMC9313783 DOI: 10.1111/ele.14003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has led to increased concern over transmission of pathogens from humans to animals, and its potential to threaten conservation and public health. To assess this threat, we reviewed published evidence of human-to-wildlife transmission events, with a focus on how such events could threaten animal and human health. We identified 97 verified examples, involving a wide range of pathogens; however, reported hosts were mostly non-human primates or large, long-lived captive animals. Relatively few documented examples resulted in morbidity and mortality, and very few led to maintenance of a human pathogen in a new reservoir or subsequent "secondary spillover" back into humans. We discuss limitations in the literature surrounding these phenomena, including strong evidence of sampling bias towards non-human primates and human-proximate mammals and the possibility of systematic bias against reporting human parasites in wildlife, both of which limit our ability to assess the risk of human-to-wildlife pathogen transmission. We outline how researchers can collect experimental and observational evidence that will expand our capacity for risk assessment for human-to-wildlife pathogen transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Fagre
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and PathologyCollege of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColoradoUSA
- Bat Health FoundationFort CollinsColoradoUSA
| | - Lily E. Cohen
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew York CityUSA
| | - Evan A. Eskew
- Department of BiologyPacific Lutheran UniversityTacomaWashingtonUSA
| | - Max Farrell
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Emma Glennon
- Disease Dynamics UnitDepartment of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Hannah K. Frank
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyTulane UniversityNew OrleansLouisinaUSA
| | - Sadie J. Ryan
- Quantitative Disease Ecology and Conservation (QDEC) Lab GroupDepartment of GeographyUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
- Emerging Pathogens InstituteUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
- School of Life SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Colin J Carlson
- Center for Global Health Science and SecurityGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyGeorgetown University Medical CenterWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Gregory F. Albery
- Department of BiologyGeorgetown UniversityWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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Nokkaew W, Intarapuk A, Sakulthai A, Wajjwalku W, Thongtip N. Study of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in captive Asian elephants in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:647-654. [PMID: 35497973 PMCID: PMC9047137 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.647-654] [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: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Over the past two decades, the number of elephant camps in Thailand has increased considerably, and captive elephants have become more popular within the tourism industry. Tourist activities involving elephant exhibitions and trekking potentially affect animal health and welfare. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between a novel stress biomarker, fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (fGCM), and various factors (sex, age, weather season, tourist season, and elephant usage patterns), monitoring the fGCM concentration during and after trekking activities ceased. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples of 20 captive Asian elephants from two camps in Kanchanaburi Province were collected monthly for 1 year. The fGCM concentrations were measured using enzyme immunoassay and evaluated relative to individual demography, season, and tourist trekking activity. The mean differences of fGCMs concentrations were compared by analysis of variance and t-test statistics according to data types with p<0.5. Results: Significant differences in mean fGCM concentrations were found between age categories (p=0.001), trekking and non-trekking animals (p=0.039), and during and after trekking (p=0.023). The mean fGCM concentration of elephants aged during 0-44 years (136.7 ng/g) was significantly higher than for animals over 44 years old (107.7 ng/g), and the elephant trekking group (144.9 ng/g) was significantly higher than the other group (124.7 ng/g). Within the trekking group, the mean fGCM concentrations gradually declined to 129.13 ng/g within 8 months of trekking cessation. Conclusion: Elephant’s ages and activities co-influenced the variance of fGCM concentrations. In addition, permanent tourist activity, especially trekking, can increase elephant stress. This study’s findings can be applied to the health status monitoring of captive elephants and result in improved animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weerapun Nokkaew
- Graduate Program in Bio-Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.,Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mahanakorn University of Technology, Nong Chok, Bangkok 10530, Thailand
| | - Apiradee Intarapuk
- Public Health Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mahanakorn University of Technology, Nong Chok, Bangkok 10530, Thailand
| | - Apichaya Sakulthai
- Department of Farm Technology Management, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Panyapiwat Institute of Management, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Worawidh Wajjwalku
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Thasala, Nakhonsithammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Nikorn Thongtip
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.,Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.,Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
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Claunch NM, Bartoszek IA, Tillis S, Stacy NI, Ossiboff RJ, Oakey S, Schoenle LA, Wellehan JFX, Romagosa CM. Physiological effects of capture and short-term captivity in an invasive snake species, the Burmese python (Python bivittatus) in Florida. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 267:111162. [PMID: 35149178 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
It is important to evaluate the role of captivity as a potential stressor. An understanding of stress responses to capture and transition to captivity may inform the limitations of laboratory studies on wild animals, aid in understanding the consequences of introducing animals into captive environments, and help predict which species may be successful invasives. We investigated physiological effects of captivity by comparing at-capture blood variables in wild Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) in Florida to pythons recently brought into captivity (1-109 days). We conducted an acute restraint test by collecting samples at baseline (immediately at handling) and one hour post-restraint across wild field-sampled (n = 19) and recently-captive (n = 33) pythons to evaluate fluctuations in plasma corticosterone, bacterial killing ability, antibody response, leukogram, and serpentovirus infection. We observed higher baseline plasma corticosterone and monocytes in recently captive compared to wild snakes, which both subsided in snakes held for a longer time in captivity, and a mild decrease in lymphocytes in the middle of the captivity period. Functional immunity and viral infection were not affected by captivity, and pythons maintained restraint-induced responses in corticosterone, heterophil to lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte counts throughout captivity. Prevalence for serpentovirus was 50%, though infection status was related to sampling date rather than captivity, indicating that viral infection may be seasonal. The history of Burmese python as a common captive animal for research and pet trade, as well as its general resilience to effects of capture and short-term captivity, may contribute to its invasion success in Florida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Claunch
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Florida, USA.
| | | | - Steve Tillis
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, USA
| | | | - Samantha Oakey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, USA
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Deka D, Sharma P, Das A, Dutta KJ, Arif SA, Das T. Management of traumatic ulcerative keratitis in a Red Serow. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2022. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.7611.14.4.20921-20925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Red Serow Capricornis rubidus is an elusive herbivore native to the montane forests of the Himalaya. Currently it is categorized as ‘Vulnerable’ in the IUCN Red List and placed under Schedule I species of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. A serow was presented with complaints of mild inappetence, irritability, sporadic scratching of head over the enclosure barrier and serous ocular discharge from the left eye. Based on detail clinical examination, the animal was diagnosed with unilateral conjunctivitis, corneal oedema, and ulcerative keratitis. A combination of Xylazine @ 1.5mg/ kg body weight and Zolatile® (zolazepam and tiletamine) @ 2.5 mg/kg body weight was used to chemically restrain the animal, followed by auriculo-palpebral nerve block using 1 ml of 2 % lignocaine hydrochloride. The affected eye was adequately cleaned with isotonic sterile Normal Saline solution (NSS). Combination of 0.5 ml of ceftriaxone and 0.5 ml of flubiprofen was injected into upper and lower palpebral conjunctiva. The cornea and the third eyelid flap were carefully sutured using 5-0 and 3-0 Vicryl, respectively. Finally, tarsorrhaphy was done using 2-0 nylon. Post-operative care consisted of an antibiotic regimen of Cephalaxin @ 20 mg/ kg body weight b-i.d-twice in a day for seven days along with probiotic supplement (Vizylac®) and Vitamin A capsules (Aquasol A®) orally once daily for the next 30 days. The animal showed complete recovery within 30 days of proper treatment, monitoring, care and management.
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Watson SJ, Hoy JM, Edwards MC, Murray PJ. First use of a microchip-automated nest box in situ by a brush-tailed phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa). AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/am20046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Microchip-automated devices have the potential to provide individual free-living animals with safe nesting areas and act as a method of targeted food delivery, while excluding competitors and predators. Wildlife have been successfully trained to use such devices in captivity but never in the wild. Bringing animals into captivity may not always be feasible or appropriate due to the high cost, likely increased stress on the animals, and potential biosecurity risk. Therefore to demonstrate proof of concept that wildlife could be trained in situ to use commercially available microchip-automated devices, a brush-tailed phascogale in the wild was exposed to a microchip-automated door attached to a nest box. The phascogale was successfully trained within 15 days to use the microchip-automated door.
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35
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Charalambous R, Simonato T, Peel M, Narayan EJ. Physiological Stress in Rescued Wild Koalas ( Phascolarctos cinereus) Being Held in a Rehabilitation Sanctuary: A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2864. [PMID: 34679883 PMCID: PMC8532651 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) are one of Australia's most charismatic native small marsupial species. Unfortunately, populations of koalas are rapidly declining throughout Australia as they continue to face increasing pressure from a changing ecosystem. All wildlife species to some degree will use their hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to stress. Depending on the duration of activation, the stress response can lead to either acute or chronic side effects and is modulated through the neuroendocrine stress system with the release of catecholamines and glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol). It is well known that rehabilitation sanctuaries are inherently stressful for all animals, in particular for rescued wild koalas, as it is an unfamiliar environment where the animals cannot predict or control what will happen to them. In this pilot study, we set out to quantify faecal and fur cortisol metabolites in wild rescued koalas undergoing wildlife rehabilitation. Absolute levels of acute and chronic stress were indexed non-invasively, with faecal samples taken to evaluate acute stress, and fur samples taken to evaluate chronic stress. Sampling occurred sporadically over four months (the start of September 2018 to the end of December 2018), and was performed on three rescued koalas (Maree, Tai, and Solstice) being held at the rehabilitation centre. Results of this study show that between the three koalas, the highest recorded faecal cortisol result was 241 ng/g, and the lowest recorded faecal cortisol result was 4 ng/g, whereas the highest recorded fur cortisol result was 1.75 ng/g, and the lowest recorded fur cortisol result was 0.10 ng/g. Statistically, there was a significant difference between all three koalas and their faecal cortisol responses, as well as their fur cortisol responses. Statistically for Maree and Solstice, there was a significant difference in their faecal cortisol response between days when a stressor was recorded, and days when a stressor was not recorded. However, statistically for Tai, this was not the case, as there was no significant difference in his faecal cortisol response between days when a stressor was recorded, and days when a stressor was not recorded. In summary, the hypothesis that faecal glucocorticoids and fur glucocorticoids between koalas will differ based on individual responses to stressors was true as a whole, but individually, this hypothesis was true for Maree and Solstice, but untrue for Tai. The use of biological samples such as faeces and fur to obtain readings of glucocorticoids is a method of measuring absolute levels of physiological stress that is still evolving for koalas, and there is no current glucocorticoid baseline with which to compare the results of this study; although, measuring faecal and fur glucocorticoids is the first step in understanding how koalas undergoing wildlife rehabilitation respond to stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renae Charalambous
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (T.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Troy Simonato
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (T.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Matthew Peel
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (T.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Edward J. Narayan
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia; (T.S.); (M.P.)
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Watson SJ, Hoy JM, Edwards MC, Murray PJ. In Situ
Training of Brushtail Possums to use Microchip‐automated Doors. WILDLIFE SOC B 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.1217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shania J. Watson
- The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus Gatton QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Julia M. Hoy
- Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre The University of Queensland Grandchester QLD 4340 Australia
| | - Megan C. Edwards
- The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus Gatton QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Peter J. Murray
- The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus Gatton QLD 4343 Australia
- University of Southern Queensland Toowoomba Campus QLD 4350 Australia
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37
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Falendysz EA, Calhoun DM, Smith CA, Sleeman JM. Outside the Box: Working With Wildlife in Biocontainment. ILAR J 2021; 61:72-85. [PMID: 34428796 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilab025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Research with captive wildlife in Animal Biosafety Level 2 (ABSL2) and 3 (ABSL3) facilities is becoming increasingly necessary as emerging and re-emerging diseases involving wildlife have increasing impacts on human, animal, and environmental health. Utilizing wildlife species in a research facility often requires outside the box thinking with specialized knowledge, practices, facilities, and equipment. The USGS National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) houses an ABSL3 facility dedicated to understanding wildlife diseases and developing tools to mitigate their impacts on animal and human health. This review presents considerations for utilizing captive wildlife for infectious disease studies, including, husbandry, animal welfare, veterinary care, and biosafety. Examples are drawn from primary literature review and collective 40-year experience of the NWHC. Working with wildlife in ABSL2 and ABSL3 facilities differs from laboratory animals in that typical laboratory housing systems, husbandry practices, and biosafety practices are not designed for work with wildlife. This requires thoughtful adaptation of standard equipment and practices, invention of customized solutions and development of appropriate enrichment plans using the natural history of the species and the microbiological characteristics of introduced and native pathogens. Ultimately, this task requires critical risk assessment, understanding of the physical and psychological needs of diverse species, creativity, innovation, and flexibility. Finally, continual reassessment and improvement are imperative in this constantly changing specialty area of infectious disease and environmental hazard research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Falendysz
- US Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Dana M Calhoun
- Department of EBIO, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Carrie A Smith
- US Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jonathan M Sleeman
- US Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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38
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Cornelius Ruhs E, Becker DJ, Oakey SJ, Ogunsina O, Fenton MB, Simmons NB, Martin LB, Downs CJ. Body size affects immune cell proportions in birds and non-volant mammals, but not bats. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:269058. [PMID: 34104965 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.241109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Powered flight has evolved several times in vertebrates and constrains morphology and physiology in ways that likely have shaped how organisms cope with infections. Some of these constraints probably have impacts on aspects of immunology, such that larger fliers might prioritize risk reduction and safety. Addressing how the evolution of flight may have driven relationships between body size and immunity could be particularly informative for understanding the propensity of some taxa to harbor many virulent and sometimes zoonotic pathogens without showing clinical disease. Here, we used a comparative framework to quantify scaling relationships between body mass and the proportions of two types of white blood cells - lymphocytes and granulocytes (neutrophils/heterophils) - across 63 bat species, 400 bird species and 251 non-volant mammal species. By using phylogenetically informed statistical models on field-collected data from wild Neotropical bats and from captive bats, non-volant mammals and birds, we show that lymphocyte and neutrophil proportions do not vary systematically with body mass among bats. In contrast, larger birds and non-volant mammals have disproportionately higher granulocyte proportions than expected for their body size. Our inability to distinguish bat lymphocyte scaling from birds and bat granulocyte scaling from all other taxa suggests there may be other ecological explanations (i.e. not flight related) for the cell proportion scaling patterns. Future comparative studies of wild bats, birds and non-volant mammals of similar body mass should aim to further differentiate evolutionary effects and other aspects of life history on immune defense and its role in the tolerance of (zoonotic) infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cornelius Ruhs
- Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Daniel J Becker
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA
| | - Samantha J Oakey
- Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Ololade Ogunsina
- Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - M Brock Fenton
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5B7
| | - Nancy B Simmons
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024-5102, USA
| | - Lynn B Martin
- Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Cynthia J Downs
- Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
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PLASMA BIOCHEMISTRY PROFILES OF WILD WESTERN TIGER SNAKES (NOTECHIS SCUTATUS OCCIDENTALIS) BEFORE AND AFTER SIX MONTHS OF CAPTIVITY. J Wildl Dis 2021; 57:253-263. [PMID: 33822160 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Urban wildlife often suffer poorer health than their counterparts living in more pristine environments due to exposure to anthropogenic stressors such as habitat degradation and environmental contamination. As a result, the health of urban versus nonurban snakes might be assessed by differences in their plasma biochemistries. We compared the plasma profiles of western tiger snakes (Notechis scutatus occidentalis) from a heavily urbanized wetland and a natural, nonurbanized wetland. Despite the urbanized snakes having lower body mass index, we found no significant difference between the plasma profiles of the two populations. We collected snakes from each population and kept them in captivity for 6 mo, providing them with stable conditions, uncontaminated (exempt from heavy metals and pesticides) food and water, and lowered parasite intensity in an attempt to promote better health through depuration. After captivity, snakes experienced a significant improvement in body mass index and significant changes in their plasma profiles. Snakes from the natural wetland initially had more variation of DNA damage; mean concentration of DNA damage in all snakes slightly decreased, but not significantly, after captivity. We present the plasma biochemistry profiles from western tiger snakes both before and after captivity and suggest a period of removal from natural stressors via captivity may offer a more reliable result of how plasma profiles of healthy animals might appear.
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40
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Lin B, Dietrich ML, Senior RA, Wilcove DS. A better classification of wet markets is key to safeguarding human health and biodiversity. Lancet Planet Health 2021; 5:e386-e394. [PMID: 34119013 PMCID: PMC8578676 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(21)00112-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Wet markets have been implicated in multiple zoonotic outbreaks, including COVID-19. They are also a conduit for legal and illegal trade in wildlife, which threatens thousands of species. Yet wet markets supply food to millions of people around the world, and differ drastically in their physical composition, the goods they sell, and the subsequent risks they pose. As such, policy makers need to know how to target their actions to efficiently safeguard human health and biodiversity without depriving people of ready access to food. Here, we propose a taxonomy of wet markets, oriented around the presence of live or dead animals, and whether those animals are domesticated or wild (either captive-reared or wild-caught). We assess the dimensions and levels of risk that different types of wet markets pose to people and to biodiversity. We identify six key risk factors of wet markets that can affect human health: (1) presence of high disease-risk animal taxa, (2) presence of live animals, (3) hygiene conditions, (4) market size, (5) animal density and interspecies mixing, and (6) the length and breadth of animal supply chains. We also identify key factors informing risk to biodiversity. Finally, we recommend targeted, risk-adjusted policies to more efficiently and humanely address the dangers posed by wet markets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Lin
- Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| | - Madeleine L Dietrich
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Rebecca A Senior
- Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - David S Wilcove
- Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
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41
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Mahandran V, Murugan CM, Gang W, Jin C, Nathan PT. Multimodal cues facilitate ripe-fruit localization and extraction in free-ranging pteropodid bats. Behav Processes 2021; 189:104426. [PMID: 34048877 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2021.104426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Sensory cues play an important role in any plant-animal interaction. Yet, we know very little about the cues used by wild mammals during fruit selection. Existing evidence mainly comes from captive studies and suggests that the pteropodid bats rely on olfaction to find fruits. In this study, we avoided captivity-generated stressors and provide insights from natural selective forces by performing manipulative experiments on free-ranging fruit bats (Cynopterus sphinx) in a wild setting, in a tree species that exhibits a bat-fruit syndrome (Madhuca longifolia var. latifolia). We find that visual cues are necessary and sufficient to locate ripe fruits. Fruit experiments exhibiting visual cues alone received more bat visits than those exhibiting other combinations of visual and olfactory cues. Ripe fruit extractions were higher by bats that evaluated fruits by perching than hovering, indicating an additional cue, i.e., haptic cue. Visual cues appear to be informative over short distances, whereas olfactory and haptic cues facilitate the fruit evaluation for those bats that used hovering and perching strategies, respectively. This study also shows that adult bats were more skillful in extracting ripe fruits than the young bats, and there was a positive correlation between the weight of selected fruits and bat weight. This study suggests that the integration of multimodal cues (visual, olfactory and haptic) facilitate ripe-fruit localization and extraction in free-ranging pteropodid bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valliyappan Mahandran
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla, Yunnan, 666303, China
| | | | - Wang Gang
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla, Yunnan, 666303, China
| | - Chen Jin
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla, Yunnan, 666303, China
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42
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Santymire RM, Ali N, Marinari PE, Livieri TM. Using hair cortisol analysis to understand the biological factors that affect black-footed ferret ( Mustela nigripes) stress physiology. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab033. [PMID: 34007452 PMCID: PMC8114467 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) was driven to near extinction due to habitat loss and an introduced disease, sylvatic plague (Yersinia pestis). After 35 years of breeding in ex situ facilities, the black-footed ferret has been experiencing infertility with seminal traits declining in males and only about a third of breeding-aged females are whelping. Our goal was to use hair cortisol analysis to determine if the ex situ population was experiencing chronic stress that was affecting reproduction by comparing captive ferrets to wild individuals. Our specific objectives were to (i) compare hair cortisol concentrations (HCCs) between age classes (juveniles versus adults), (ii) compare the HCCs of in situ and across different ex situ facilities and (iii) determine the relationship between HCCs and reproductive success. Overall, wild juveniles had higher HCC than wild adults. Our generalized linear mixed model determined that the parameters that best predict HCC for adults were the interactions among sex, in situ versus ex situ facilities and season. During both seasons, wild females had higher HCCs compared to the ex situ females. During the breeding season, male HCCs across breeding facilities varied and males at the breeding facility with the largest ferret habitats had HCCs similar to wild males. At one breeding facility, HCC was higher in males that sired compared to those that did not sire. In conclusion, ex situ ferrets do not have higher HCC than wild individuals when controlling for season and ex situ habitat size, and ex situ males with higher HCC tended to sire. This suggests that HCC may be metabolically driven and/or that low HCC may be an indication of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation and warrants further investigation both for laboratory validation and biological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Santymire
- Conservation and Science Department, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
- Committee on Evolutionary Biology, University of Chicago, 1025 E. 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - N Ali
- Conservation and Science Department, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
- Committee on Evolutionary Biology, University of Chicago, 1025 E. 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - P E Marinari
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Rd, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - T M Livieri
- Prairie Wildlife Research, PO Box 308, Wellington, CO 80549, USA
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43
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Owens ACS, Lewis SM. Effects of artificial light on growth, development, and dispersal of two North American fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae). JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 130:104200. [PMID: 33607160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2021.104200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Holometabolous insects exhibit complex life cycles in which both morphology and ecological niche change dramatically during development. In the larval stage, many insects have soft, slow-moving bodies and poor vision, limiting their ability to respond to environmental threats. Artificial light at night (ALAN) is an environmental perturbation known to severely impact the fitness of adult insects by disrupting both temporal and spatial orientation. The impact of ALAN on earlier life stages, however, is largely unknown. We conducted a series of laboratory experiments to investigate how two distinct forms of ALAN affect the development and movement of immature Photuris sp. and Photinus obscurellus fireflies. Although long-term exposure to dim light at night (dLAN), akin to urban skyglow, did not impact overall survivorship or duration of egg, larval, and pupal stages in either species, it did accelerate weight gain in early-instar Photuris larvae. Late-instar Photuris exposed to point sources of ALAN at the start of their nightly foraging period were also significantly more likely to burrow beneath the soil surface, rather than disperse across it. ALAN may therefore impede dispersal of firefly larvae away from illuminated areas, which could have downstream consequences for the reproductive fitness of adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avalon C S Owens
- Tufts University, Department of Biology, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, United States.
| | - Sara M Lewis
- Tufts University, Department of Biology, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, United States
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44
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Assersohn K, Marshall AF, Morland F, Brekke P, Hemmings N. Why do eggs fail? Causes of hatching failure in threatened populations and consequences for conservation. Anim Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Assersohn
- Department of Animal & Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
| | - A. F. Marshall
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London London UK
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment University College London London UK
| | - F. Morland
- Department of Animal & Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London London UK
| | - P. Brekke
- Institute of Zoology Zoological Society of London London UK
| | - N. Hemmings
- Department of Animal & Plant Sciences University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
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45
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Fischer CP, Romero LM. The effects of daily mitotane or diazepam treatment on the formation of chronic stress symptoms in newly captured wild house sparrows. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa118. [PMID: 34970435 PMCID: PMC7771575 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Wild animals brought into captivity frequently experience chronic stress and typically need a period of time to adjust to the conditions of captivity (restraint, artificial lighting, altered diet, human presence, etc.), to which they may never fully acclimate. Changes in mass, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and heart rate parameters have been observed over the first week in newly captive house sparrows (Passer domesticus). In this study, we tested the effects of two drugs, diazepam and mitotane, in preventing the chronic stress symptoms caused by captivity, compared with oil-injected control animals. Diazepam is an anxiolytic that is widely prescribed in humans and other animals and has been shown in some cases to reduce physiological stress. Mitotane is an agent that causes chemical adrenalectomy, reducing the body's capacity to produce glucocorticoid hormones. Our mitotane treatment did not cause the expected change in corticosterone concentrations. Baseline corticosterone was higher after a week in captivity regardless of the treatment group, while stress-induced corticosterone did not significantly increase above baseline after a week in captivity in any treatment group. However, mitotane treatment did have some physiological effects, as it reduced the resting heart rate and the duration of the heart rate response to a sudden noise. It also prevented the increase in nighttime activity that we observed in control animals. There was no effect of diazepam on corticosterone, resting heart rate, activity or heart rate response to a sudden noise, and no effect of either treatment on the sympathetic vs parasympathetic control of the resting heart rate. Together, these data suggest that mitotane, but not diazepam, can have a modest impact on helping house sparrows adapt to captive conditions. Easing the transition to captivity will likely make conservation efforts, such as initiating captive breeding programs, more successful.
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46
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Magouras I, Brookes VJ, Jori F, Martin A, Pfeiffer DU, Dürr S. Emerging Zoonotic Diseases: Should We Rethink the Animal-Human Interface? Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:582743. [PMID: 33195602 PMCID: PMC7642492 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.582743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Magouras
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Victoria J. Brookes
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Ferran Jori
- UMR ASTRE (Animal, Santé, Territoires, Risques et Ecosystémes), CIRAD-INRAE, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Angela Martin
- Department of Philosophy, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Udo Pfeiffer
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Salome Dürr
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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47
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Benedek I, Altbӓcker V, Zsolnai A, Molnár T. Exploring the Genetic Background of the Differences in Nest-Building Behavior in European Rabbit. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091579. [PMID: 32899658 PMCID: PMC7552269 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Once a day, nursing and absentee mothering make the wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) an ideal model animal for measuring differences in maternal behavior. Behavioral events and their hormonal regulation leading to parturition are well documented; however, the genetic background behind individual differences in this complex process is unknown. Decreased progesterone hormone level and the reduction of progesterone receptor activity are crucial to initiating the collection of nest material. The progesterone receptor gene is a likely candidate affecting nest-building behavior. In addition to several known point mutations in the progesterone receptor gene of the European wild rabbit, we have found a new mutation in the promoter region of the gene at 2682 T > C. Although this new single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was not involved in the formation of the nest-building behavior, an SNP (2464G > A) already described in the promoter region showed an association with individual differences in the initiation of hay carrying. The distribution of this SNP delivered an opposite result compared to domestic rabbits. Genotype (GG) with high uterine capacity was most frequent; the hereditary value of the trait was h2 = 0.10. Thus, progesterone receptor gene polymorphism may manifest in individual differences affecting breeding success in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildikó Benedek
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Nature Conservation, Szent István University, Kaposvár Campus, 7400 Kaposvár, Hungary;
- Correspondence: (I.B.); (T.M.)
| | - Vilmos Altbӓcker
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Nature Conservation, Szent István University, Kaposvár Campus, 7400 Kaposvár, Hungary;
| | - Attila Zsolnai
- Research Institute for Animal Breeding, Nutrition and Meat Science, 2053 Herceghalom, Hungary;
| | - Tamás Molnár
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Nature Conservation, Szent István University, Kaposvár Campus, 7400 Kaposvár, Hungary;
- Correspondence: (I.B.); (T.M.)
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48
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Huang P, St.Mary CM, Kimball RT. Habitat urbanization and stress response are primary predictors of personality variation in northern cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis). JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/juaa015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Behavioral traits that vary consistently among individuals across different contexts are often termed as ‘personality traits,’ while the correlated suite formed by those traits is called a ‘behavioral syndrome’. Both personality trait and behavioral syndrome are potentially responsive to animal ‘states’, defined as strategically relevant individual features affecting the cost-and-benefit trade-offs of behavioral actions. Both extrinsic ‘states’ (e.g. urban versus rural habitats), and intrinsic ‘states’ (e.g. sex), may shape among-individual variation in personality traits, as well as behavioral syndromes. Here, we used northern cardinals sampled from four locations to examine the effect of habitat type (urban versus rural, an extrinsic state), stress hormone corticosterone (CORT) parameters, body weight and sex (intrinsic states) on personality traits and behavioral syndrome variation. We used behavioral trials to measure five personality traits. Using principal component analysis to quantify personality traits first, followed by general linear mixed models, we found that habitat type, CORT at capture and 2-day CORT response affected some personality traits, while body weight and sex did not. Cardinals inhabiting more urbanized areas had lower CORT metabolite levels at capture and were more neophilic, less neophobic and also less aggressive than their rural conspecifics. Using structural equation modeling to construct behavioral syndromes formed by our selected personality traits, we found that urban and rural cardinals varied in the models representing syndrome structure. When utilizing the shared syndrome structural model to examine the effects of states, habitat type and 2-day CORT response appear to affect syndrome variation in a coordinated, not hierarchical, manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Huang
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, 220 Bartram Hall, P. O. Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611-8525, USA
| | - Colette M St.Mary
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, 220 Bartram Hall, P. O. Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611-8525, USA
| | - Rebecca T Kimball
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, 220 Bartram Hall, P. O. Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611-8525, USA
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