1
|
Chen DM, Chen LD, Kouba CK, Songsasen N, Roth TL, Allen PJ, Kouba AJ. Oral administration of GnRH via a cricket vehicle stimulates spermiation in tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum). PLoS One 2024; 19:e0289995. [PMID: 39052625 PMCID: PMC11271887 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
More than 50% of caudates are threatened with extinction and are in need of ex-situ breeding programs to support conservation efforts and species recovery. Unfortunately, many salamander populations under human care can experience reproductive failure, primarily due to missing environmental cues necessary for breeding. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are a useful suite of techniques for overcoming or bypassing these missing environmental cues to promote breeding. Exogenous hormones are used to stimulate natural breeding behaviors or gamete expression for in-vitro fertilization or biobanking and are typically administered intramuscularly in caudates. While effective, intramuscular injection is risky to perform in smaller-bodied animals, resulting in health and welfare risks. This research investigated the spermiation response to hormone administration through a non-invasive oral bioencapsulation route using the tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) as a model species. Male salamanders were randomly rotated six weeks apart through four treatments (n = 11 males/treatment) in which animals received a resolving dose of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) as follows: (1) Prime-Only (0.0 μg/g); (2) Low (0.25 μg/g); (3) Medium (1.0 μg/g); and (4) High (2.0 μg/g). All males were given a GnRH priming dose (0.25 μg/g) 24 hours prior to the resolving dose. Exogenous hormone was delivered inside of a cricket (Gryllodes sigillatus) that was presented as a food item by tweezers. Sperm samples were collected at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after the resolving dose and analyzed for quantity and quality. For all treatments, sperm concentration was produced in an episodic pattern over time. The Prime-Only treatment had a lower (p < 0.05) percent of sperm exhibiting normal morphology compared to treatments utilizing a resolving dose of GnRH. Overall, oral administration of GnRH is a feasible route of inducing spermiation in salamanders, yielding sperm of sufficient quantity and quality for in-vitro fertilization and biobanking efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devin M. Chen
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Li-Dunn Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Carrie K. Kouba
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Terri L. Roth
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Allen
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Andrew J. Kouba
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rial RV, Canellas F, Akaârir M, Rubiño JA, Barceló P, Martín A, Gamundí A, Nicolau MC. The Birth of the Mammalian Sleep. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050734. [PMID: 35625462 PMCID: PMC9138988 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Mammals evolved from reptiles as a consequence of an evolutionary bottleneck. Some diurnal reptiles extended their activity, first to twilight and then to the entire dark time. This forced the change of the visual system. Pursuing maximal sensitivity, they abandoned the filters protecting the eyes against the dangerous diurnal light, which, in turn, forced immobility in lightproof burrows during light time. This was the birth of the mammalian sleep. Then, the Cretacic-Paleogene extinction of dinosaurs leaved free the diurnal niche and allowed the expansion of a few early mammals to diurnal life and the high variability of sleep traits. On the other hand, we propose that the idling rest is a state showing homeostatic regulation. Therefore, the difference between behavioral rest and wakeful idling is rather low: both show quiescence, raised sensory thresholds, reversibility, specific sleeping-resting sites and body positions, it is a pleasing state, and both are dependent of circadian and homeostatic regulation. Indeed, the most important difference is the unconsciousness of sleep and the consciousness of wakeful idling. Thus, we propose that sleep is a mere upgrade of the wakeful rest, and both may have the same function: guaranteeing rest during a part of the daily cycle. Abstract Mammals evolved from small-sized reptiles that developed endothermic metabolism. This allowed filling the nocturnal niche. They traded-off visual acuity for sensitivity but became defenseless against the dangerous daylight. To avoid such danger, they rested with closed eyes in lightproof burrows during light-time. This was the birth of the mammalian sleep, the main finding of this report. Improved audition and olfaction counterweighed the visual impairments and facilitated the cortical development. This process is called “The Nocturnal Evolutionary Bottleneck”. Pre-mammals were nocturnal until the Cretacic-Paleogene extinction of dinosaurs. Some early mammals returned to diurnal activity, and this allowed the high variability in sleeping patterns observed today. The traits of Waking Idleness are almost identical to those of behavioral sleep, including homeostatic regulation. This is another important finding of this report. In summary, behavioral sleep seems to be an upgrade of Waking Idleness Indeed, the trait that never fails to show is quiescence. We conclude that the main function of sleep consists in guaranteeing it during a part of the daily cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rubén V. Rial
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-971-173-147; Fax: +34-971-173-184
| | - Francesca Canellas
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Mourad Akaârir
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - José A. Rubiño
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Pere Barceló
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Aida Martín
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Antoni Gamundí
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - M. Cristina Nicolau
- Laboratori de Neurofisiologia del Son i dels Ritmes Biològics, Grup de Recerca Neurofisiologia del Son i Ritmes Biològics, Department of Biologia, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain; (F.C.); (M.A.); (J.A.R.); (P.B.); (A.M.); (A.G.); (M.C.N.)
- IdISBa, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Balears, Hospital Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
- IUNICS, Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Hospital Universitary Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Charles van Zanten T, Craig Simpson S. Managing the Health of Captive Groups of Reptiles and Amphibians. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2021; 24:609-645. [PMID: 34366012 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2021.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Managing the health of reptile and amphibian collections is centered on providing appropriate environmental parameters, husbandry conditions, and nutrition as well as maintaining good welfare and careful collection planning. Disease transmission is reduced through quarantine, appropriate diagnostic testing, and annual veterinary health assessment."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trent Charles van Zanten
- Conservation, Research and Veterinary Services, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Jurong Bird Park, 2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925.
| | - Shane Craig Simpson
- The Unusual Pet Vets, 210 Karingal Drive, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Santos L, Oliveira C, Vasconcelos BM, Vilela D, Melo L, Ambrósio L, da Silva A, Murback L, Kurissio J, Cavalcante J, Cassaro CV, Barros L, Barraviera B, Ferreira RS. Good management practices of venomous snakes in captivity to produce biological venom-based medicines: achieving replicability and contributing to pharmaceutical industry. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2021; 24:30-50. [PMID: 33308037 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2020.1855279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the factors responsible for lack of reproducible findings may be attributed to the raw material used. To date, there are no apparent studies examining reproducibility using venoms for the development of new toxin-based drugs with respect to regulatory agencies' policies. For this reason, protocols were implemented to produce animal toxins with quality, traceability, and strict compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices. This required validation of the production chain from the arrival of the animal to the vivarium, followed by handling, housing, as well as compliance with respect to extraction, freeze-drying, and, finally, storage protocols, aimed at generating compounds to serve as candidate molecules applicable in clinical trials. Currently, to produce quality snake venoms to support reproductive studies, the Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP) from São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil has 449 microchipped snakes through rigid and standardized operating procedures for safety, health, and welfare of animals. Snakes were frequently subjected to vet clinical examination, anthelmintic, and antiparasitic treatment. Venom milk used to destroy prey was collected from each animal in individual plastic microtubes to avoid contamination and for traceability. In addition, venoms were submitted to microbiological, and biochemical toxicological analyses. It is noteworthy that investigators are responsible for caring, maintaining, and manipulating snakes and ensuring their health in captivity. This review aimed to contribute to the pharmaceutical industry the experimental experience and entire snake venom production chain required to generate quality products for therapeutic human consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucilene Santos
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB) and CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Cristiano Oliveira
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Barbara Marques Vasconcelos
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Daniela Vilela
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Melo
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB) and CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Lívia Ambrósio
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Amanda da Silva
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Leticia Murback
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline Kurissio
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Joeliton Cavalcante
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Claudia Vilalva Cassaro
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Luciana Barros
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Benedito Barraviera
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB) and CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB) and CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP) , Botucatu, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Storks L, Leal M. Sleeping Behavior of the Secretive Puerto Rican Twig Anole, Anolis occultus. CARIBB J SCI 2020. [DOI: 10.18475/cjos.v50i1.a18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Levi Storks
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, U.S.A
| | - Manuel Leal
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
|
7
|
|
8
|
Falcón W, Furrer S, Bauert M, Hatt JM, Hansen DM, Clauss M. Evaluation of artificial heating sources for the thermoregulation of Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) in Zurich zoo. Zoo Biol 2018; 37:458-465. [PMID: 30548885 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
We recorded the thermoregulatory patterns of five Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) (25-193 kg) during spring (ZRH spring trial), after the installation of a heating area (concrete heat pad and basking lamp) at Zurich Zoo, Switzerland. The measurements were compared to published results on the same tortoises observed prior to the installation of the heater (ZRH summer and winter trials), and on wild tortoises on Aldabra Atoll. The mean environmental temperature outside the heating area was 23.3 °C, significantly lower compared to Aldabra Atoll (30.3 °C; range: 23.8-43.8 °C), and to the environmental temperature range at which tortoises maximize their activity in the wild (Ta-opt ; 25.8-31.7 °C). The heating area exhibited a mean temperature of 36.3 °C, and tortoises that made use of the heating area were able to maintain a mean core body temperature (Tbc ) of 30.0 °C, which was comparable to the Tbc of tortoises during ZRH summer and on Aldabra trials, and an improvement over the mean Tbc recorded during the ZRH winter trial (21.2 °C). The smaller individuals reached the upper limits of Tbc recommended for the species, probably due to heating pad temperatures above Ta-opt . We discuss current practices to provide external heating sources for tortoises and how this method can be used to provide an adequate thermal environment for large captive reptiles. Finally, we provide recommendations for the installation of artificial heating sources for tortoises and large reptiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilfredo Falcón
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dennis M Hansen
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lee-Jenkins SSY, Robinson SA. Effects of neonicotinoids on putative escape behavior of juvenile wood frogs (Lithobates sylvaticus) chronically exposed as tadpoles. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2018; 37:3115-3123. [PMID: 30358909 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Neonicotinoids are water-soluble neurotoxic insecticides widely used in agriculture that are being detected in nontarget aquatic environments. Nontarget aquatic wildlife, such as amphibians, may be at risk of exposure. Studies using larval stages suggest neonicotinoids are a minor concern to amphibians; however, behavioral effects manifesting later in life are not often considered. Behavioral endpoints could further our understanding of potential sublethal neurotoxic effects after exposure has ended. Using juvenile wood frogs (Lithobates sylvaticus), we investigated the effects of chronic larval exposure to 3 concentrations (1, 10, and 100 μg/L) of formulations containing imidacloprid or thiamethoxam on the putative escape response to a simulated heron attack. We found that control frogs actively responded (i.e., moved or jumped) to the simulated predator attack but frogs exposed to imidacloprid at 10 and 100 μg/L were less likely to respond. The exposed frogs, specifically from the imidacloprid treatment at 10 μg/L (tendency at 100 μg/L) were less likely to leave the attack area compared with controls. However, frogs used refuge similarly among all treatments. Finally, there were no differences in locomotor performance, as measured by total number of jumps and distance traveled during a trial among treatments. In conclusion, our study suggests that exposure to neonicotinoids during amphibian larval development may affect a juvenile frog's ability to perceive or respond to a predator, potentially increasing their vulnerability to predation. Future studies should validate and explore this potential effect further. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:3115-3123. © 2018 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stacey S Y Lee-Jenkins
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stacey A Robinson
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Melanopsin mRNA in the Iris of Red-Eared Slider Turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). J HERPETOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1670/16-046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
11
|
Abstract
This chapter provides an introduction to animals that are commonly used for research. It presents information on basic care topics such as biology, behavior, housing, feeding, sexing, and breeding of these animals. The chapter provides some insight into the reasons why these animals are used in research. It also gives an overview of techniques that can be utilized to collect blood or to administer drugs or medicine. Each section concludes with a brief description of how to recognize abnormal signs, in addition to lists of various diseases.
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
AbstractSnake farming in Asia has increased over the past decade, and conservationists have expressed concerns that farms may foster overexploitation of wild populations and create legal conduits for illegally harvested wild individuals. We conducted face-to-face interviews with snake farmers in Viet Nam and China, with the aim of describing the basic models under which snakes are farmed for meat. We synthesized this information to assess the feasibility of farming snakes for human consumption, drawing conclusions about the impact of this industry on the conservation of wild snake populations. The most commonly farmed snakes include the monocled cobra Naja kaouthia, the Chinese cobra Naja atra, the oriental rat snake Ptyas mucosus and the king cobra Ophiophagus hannah. These species have life histories that are compatible with the demands of intensive livestock production, including early maturity, rapid growth rates, high reproductive output, efficient food assimilation rates and undemanding space requirements. Snake farmers appear to be capitalizing on the unique energy-efficiency of snakes to produce meat for human consumption. We conclude that the ease and profitability of farming snakes in China and Viet Nam make farming a viable substitute for harvesting wild snakes, with apparently minimal threat to wild populations. Snake farming offers a range of novel agricultural opportunities and has the potential to play a pivotal role in sustainable development.
Collapse
|
13
|
Tetzlaff SJ, Tetzlaff KE, Connors RJ. Evaluation of thermal regimes for transported ambassador ectotherms: One size does not fit all. Zoo Biol 2016; 35:339-45. [PMID: 27007783 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21283] [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: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Providing appropriate environmental temperatures for captive ectotherms should be a husbandry priority. This can be especially challenging for ectotherms that are routinely transported, such as those used in education programs at zoos, because they are unable to thermoregulate while confined in non-temperature controlled, compact carriers. To assess if ectotherms used in the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo's outreach programs experienced appropriate transit temperatures during cold weather, we placed temperature loggers inside two sizes of transport carriers, half containing a heat source (bottle of hot water) and half not (control). While transport temperatures were appropriate for many ectotherms, this simple procedure failed to meet the thermal preferences of species with relatively low or high preferred temperatures such as the eastern tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) and the spiny-tailed lizard (Uromastyx maliensis), respectively. We found large heated carriers were warmer than small heated carriers, but the temperatures of control carriers did not differ. Despite considerable interspecific variation, large heated carriers provided higher thermal quality environments than both small heated and control carriers for all species except eastern tiger salamanders. We suggest further thermal monitoring of ectotherms during transit with the aim of identifying appropriate heat sources and developing efficient and effective transportation protocols. This could be achieved by modifying transport carriers so that animals are able to thermoregulate. Limiting or ceasing their use when appropriate temperatures cannot be provided may be necessary. Particular attention should be given to species with temperature preferences markedly different than the majority of others in a given collection. Zoo Biol. 35:339-345, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasha J Tetzlaff
- Department of Biology and Environmental Resources Center, Indiana-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, Indiana.,Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, Fort Wayne, Indiana
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Leal M, Gunderson AR. Rapid Change in the Thermal Tolerance of a Tropical Lizard. Am Nat 2012; 180:815-22. [DOI: 10.1086/668077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
15
|
Fleishman LJ, Loew ER, Whiting MJ. High sensitivity to short wavelengths in a lizard and implications for understanding the evolution of visual systems in lizards. Proc Biol Sci 2011; 278:2891-9. [PMID: 21389031 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2011.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in developing animal communication theory is frequently constrained by a poor understanding of sensory systems. For example, while lizards have been the focus of numerous studies in visual signalling, we only have data on the spectral sensitivities of a few species clustered in two major clades (Iguania and Gekkota). Using electroretinography and microspectrophotometry, we studied the visual system of the cordylid lizard Platysaurus broadleyi because it represents an unstudied clade (Scinciformata) with respect to visual systems and because UV signals feature prominently in its social behaviour. The retina possessed four classes of single and one class of double cones. Sensitivity in the ultraviolet region (UV) was approximately three times higher than previously reported for other lizards. We found more colourless oil droplets (associated with UV-sensitive (UVS) and short wavelength-sensitive (SWS) photoreceptors), suggesting that the increased sensitivity was owing to the presence of more UVS photoreceptors. Using the Vorobyev-Osorio colour discrimination model, we demonstrated that an increase in the number of UVS photoreceptors significantly enhances a lizard's ability to discriminate conspecific male throat colours. Visual systems in diurnal lizards appear to be broadly conserved, but data from additional clades are needed to confirm this.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leo J Fleishman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Union College, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Modeling and measuring the visual detection of ecologically relevant motion by an Anolis lizard. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2009; 196:1-13. [PMID: 19908049 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-009-0487-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2009] [Revised: 10/24/2009] [Accepted: 10/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Motion in the visual periphery of lizards, and other animals, often causes a shift of visual attention toward the moving object. This behavioral response must be more responsive to relevant motion (predators, prey, conspecifics) than to irrelevant motion (windblown vegetation). Early stages of visual motion detection rely on simple local circuits known as elementary motion detectors (EMDs). We presented a computer model consisting of a grid of correlation-type EMDs, with videos of natural motion patterns, including prey, predators and windblown vegetation. We systematically varied the model parameters and quantified the relative response to the different classes of motion. We carried out behavioral experiments with the lizard Anolis sagrei and determined that their visual response could be modeled with a grid of correlation-type EMDs with a spacing parameter of 0.3 degrees visual angle, and a time constant of 0.1 s. The model with these parameters gave substantially stronger responses to relevant motion patterns than to windblown vegetation under equivalent conditions. However, the model is sensitive to local contrast and viewer-object distance. Therefore, additional neural processing is probably required for the visual system to reliably distinguish relevant from irrelevant motion under a full range of natural conditions.
Collapse
|
17
|
Alworth LC, Vazquez VM. A novel system for individually housing bullfrogs. Lab Anim (NY) 2009; 38:329-33. [DOI: 10.1038/laban1009-329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2009] [Accepted: 05/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
18
|
Habitat light and dewlap color diversity in four species of Puerto Rican anoline lizards. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2009; 195:1043-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-009-0478-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2008] [Revised: 07/20/2009] [Accepted: 08/31/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
19
|
Abstract
Extant amphibians comprise three lineages-- salamanders (Urodela or Caudata), frogs and toads (Anura), and caecilians (Gymnophiona, Apoda, or Caecilia)--which contain more than 6,000 species. Fewer than a dozen species of amphibians are commonly maintained in laboratory colonies, and the husbandry requirements for the vast majority of amphibians are poorly known. For these species, a review of basic characteristics of amphibian biology supplemented by inferences drawn from the morphological and physiological characteristics of the species in question provides a basis for decisions about housing and feeding. Amphibians are ectotherms, and their skin is permeable to water, ions, and respiratory gases. Most species are secretive and, in many cases, nocturnal. The essential characteristics of their environment include appropriate levels of humidity, temperature, and lighting as well as retreat sites. Terrestrial and arboreal species require moist substrates, water dishes, and high relative humidity. Because temperature requirements for most species are poorly known, it is advisable to use a temperature mosaic that will allow an animal to find an appropriate temperature within its cage. Photoperiod may affect physiology and behavior (especially reproduction and hibernation), and although the importance of ultraviolet light for calcium metabolism by amphibians is not yet known, ecological observations suggest that it might be important for some species of frogs. Some amphibians are territorial, and some use olfactory cues to mark their territory and to recognize other individuals of their species. All amphibians are carnivorous as adults, and the feeding response of many species is elicited by the movement of prey. Diets should include a mixture of prey species, and it may be advisable to load prey with vitamins and minerals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Harvey Pough
- Department of Biological Science, Rochester Institute of Technology, 85 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fleishman LJ, Leal M, Sheehan J. Illumination geometry, detector position and the objective determination of animal signal colours in natural light. Anim Behav 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2005.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
21
|
Case BC, Lewbart GA, Doerr PD. The physiological and behavioural impacts of and preference for an enriched environment in the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2004.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
22
|
Leal M. Differences in Visual Signal Design and Detectability between Allopatric Populations ofAnolisLizards. Am Nat 2004; 163:26-39. [PMID: 14767834 DOI: 10.1086/379794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2002] [Accepted: 07/28/2003] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
We tested the prediction of the sensory drive hypothesis using four allopatric populations of the lizard Anolis cristatellus from two distinct environments (i.e., mesic and xeric conditions). For each population, we measured habitat light characteristics and quantified signal design by measuring the spectral and total reflectance and transmittance of the dewlap. We used these data to calculate dewlap detectability using an empirically based model of signal detection probability. We found that populations from mesic and xeric conditions occupy two distinct habitats with respect to light intensity and spectral quality and that dewlap design has diverged between populations in a way that increases signal detectability in each habitat. The major difference in dewlap design was in total reflectance and transmittance, making dewlaps from xeric habitats darker and dewlaps from mesic habitats brighter. Furthermore, dewlap detection decreased significantly when a dewlap from a xeric habitat is detected under the spectral conditions of a mesic habitat. The converse is true for a dewlap from a mesic habitat. We propose that sensory drive has promoted divergence in dewlap design in distinct habitat light conditions, and we discuss the possibility that selection might promote early stages of reproductive isolation as a by-product of selection on dewlap design to distinct habitat light conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Leal
- Department of Biology, Union College, Schenectady, New York, 12308, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Loew ER, Fleishman LJ, Foster RG, Provencio I. Visual pigments and oil droplets in diurnal lizards. J Exp Biol 2002; 205:927-38. [PMID: 11916989 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.205.7.927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
We report microspectrophotometric (MSP) data for the visual pigments and oil droplets of 17 species of Caribbean anoline lizard known to live in differing photic habitats and having distinctly different dewlap colors. The outgroup Polychrus marmoratus was also examined to gain insight into the ancestral condition. Except for Anolis carolinensis, which is known to use vitamin A2 as its visual pigment chromophore, all anoline species examined possessed at least four vitamin-A1-based visual pigments with maximum absorbance (λmax) at 564, 495,455 and 365 nm. To the previously reported visual pigments for A. carolinensis we add an ultraviolet-sensitive one withλ max at 365 nm. Five common classes of oil droplet were measured, named according to apparent color and associated with specific cone classes — yellow and green in long-wavelength-sensitive (LWS) cones,green only in medium-wavelength-sensitive (MWS) cones and colorless in short-wavelength-sensitive (SWS) and ultraviolet-sensitive (UVS) cones. MSP data showed that the colorless droplet in the SWS cone had significant absorption between 350 and 400 nm, while the colorless droplet in the UVS cone did not. The pattern for Polychrus marmoratus was identical to that for the anoles except for the presence of a previously undescribed visual cell with a rod-like outer segment, a visual pigment with a λmaxof 497 nm and a colorless oil droplet like that in the UVS cones. These findings suggest that anoline visual pigments, as far as they determine visual system spectral sensitivity, are not necessarily adapted to the photic environment or to the color of significant visual targets (e.g. dewlaps).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellis R Loew
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Leal M, Fleishman LJ. Evidence for habitat partitioning based on adaptation to environmental light in a pair of sympatric lizard species. Proc Biol Sci 2002; 269:351-9. [PMID: 11886622 PMCID: PMC1690909 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2001.1904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Terrestrial habitats exhibit a variety of light environments. If species exhibit evolutionary adaptations of their visual system or signals to habitat light conditions, then these conditions can directly influence the structure of communities. We evaluated habitat light characteristics and visual-signal design in a pair of sympatric species of lizards: Anolis cooki and Anolis cristatellus. We found that each species occupies a distinct microhabitat with respect to light intensity and spectral quality. We measured the relative retinal spectral sensitivity and found significant differences between the species that correlate with differences in habitat spectral quality. We measured the spectral reflectance of the dewlaps (colourful throat fans used in communication), and found that the A. cooki dewlap reflects little ultraviolet (UV), while that of A. cristatellus reflects strongly in the UV. For both species downwelling light (irradiance) is rich in UV. However the background light (radiance) is rich in UV for A. cooki, but low in UV for A. cristatellus. Thus, the dewlap of each species creates a high contrast with the background in the UV. Our findings strongly suggest that these two species are partitioning their habitat through specializations of the visual system and signal design to microhabitat light conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Leal
- Department of Biology, Union College, Schenectady, NY 12308, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|