1
|
Ockert LE, McLennan EA, Fox S, Belov K, Hogg CJ. Characterising the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) pouch microbiome in lactating and non-lactating females. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15188. [PMID: 38956276 PMCID: PMC11220038 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66097-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Wildlife harbour a diverse range of microorganisms that affect their health and development. Marsupials are born immunologically naïve and physiologically underdeveloped, with primary development occurring inside a pouch. Secretion of immunological compounds and antimicrobial peptides in the epithelial lining of the female's pouch, pouch young skin, and through the milk, are thought to boost the neonate's immune system and potentially alter the pouch skin microbiome. Here, using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we characterised the Tasmanian devil pouch skin microbiome from 25 lactating and 30 non-lactating wild females to describe and compare across these reproductive stages. We found that the lactating pouch skin microbiome had significantly lower amplicon sequence variant richness and diversity than non-lactating pouches, however there was no overall dissimilarity in community structure between lactating and non-lactating pouches. The top five phyla were found to be consistent between both reproductive stages, with over 85% of the microbiome being comprised of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Fusobacteriota, Actinobacteriota, and Bacteroidota. The most abundant taxa remained consistent across all taxonomic ranks between lactating and non-lactating pouch types. This suggests that any potential immunological compounds or antimicrobial peptide secretions did not significantly influence the main community members. Of the more than 16,000 total identified amplicon sequence variants, 25 were recognised as differentially abundant between lactating and non-lactating pouches. It is proposed that the secretion of antimicrobial peptides in the pouch act to modulate these microbial communities. This study identifies candidate bacterial clades on which to test the activity of Tasmanian devil antimicrobial peptides and their role in pouch young protection, which in turn may lead to future therapeutic development for human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E Ockert
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Elspeth A McLennan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Samantha Fox
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, NRE Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
- Toledo Zoo, 2605 Broadway, Toledo, OH, 43609, USA
| | - Katherine Belov
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Carolyn J Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, PO BOX 120551, San Diego, CA, 92112, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Roberts HE, Fanson KV, Hodgens N, Parrott ML, Bennett P, Jamieson LT. Scent detection dogs as a novel method for oestrus detection in an endangered species, the Tasmanian devil ( Sarcophilus harrisii). Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1224172. [PMID: 37915949 PMCID: PMC10616266 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1224172] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Captive breeding is a critical tool for conservation of endangered species. Identifying the correct time to pair males and females can be a major challenge for captive breeding programmes, with current methods often being invasive or slow. Detection dogs may provide a non-invasive way to determine female receptivity, but this has not been explored in captive wildlife. This exploratory study investigated the use of detection dogs as a novel method of oestrus detection in the endangered Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii). Faecal samples were collected from 11 captive female devils during the breeding seasons of 2020 and 2021. Three dogs with prior detection experience were trained and subsequently assessed (n = 188 searches per dog), on their ability to discriminate between oestrus and non-oestrus devil faecal samples, in a one sample set-up. When assessed on training samples, dogs were able to correctly discriminate oestrus from non-oestrus with a mean sensitivity of 69.1% and mean specificity of 65.7%. When assessed on novel samples, their sensitivity to oestrus dropped (mean sensitivity of 48.6%). However, they were still able to correctly identify non-oestrus samples (mean specificity of 68.1%). This study is the first to explore detection dogs' ability to identify oestrus in a captive breeding programme for endangered wildlife, providing a promising tool for non-invasive monitoring of reproductive status in wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E. Roberts
- Wildlife Conservation and Reproductive Endocrinology Lab, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kerry V. Fanson
- Wildlife Conservation and Reproductive Endocrinology Lab, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Naomi Hodgens
- Wildlife Detection Dog Program, Wildlife Conservation & Science, Zoos Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marissa L. Parrott
- Wildlife Conservation & Science, Zoos Victoria, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Pauleen Bennett
- Anthrozoology Research Group, Department of Psychology, Counselling and Therapy, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - La Toya Jamieson
- Wildlife Detection Dog Program, Wildlife Conservation & Science, Zoos Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Old JM, Stannard HJ. Conservation of quolls (Dasyurus spp.) in captivity – a review. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/am20033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Quolls are carnivorous marsupials in the family Dasyuridae with characteristic white spots. They are distributed throughout Australia and New Guinea, but uncommonly seen due to their mostly nocturnal solitary nature, and large home ranges. All Australian quolls are listed as ‘near threatened’ or ‘endangered’ at state, national and international levels, largely due to human-induced threats. Threats include introduced predators, habitat loss through clearing and modifications including changed fire regimes, disease, human persecution, vehicle collisions and accidental or targeted poisoning by humans and cane toads (Rhinella marina). Conservation efforts that have focussed on reducing introduced predators, and minimising the impact of cane toads, have aided some translocations, hence species recovery in some local areas of Australia has occurred. Where species conservation has required captive breeding for translocation, successful captive management has been crucial. We summarise research conducted in captivity on aspects of birth and development, health and disease, and blood and nutrition parameters of quolls, and suggest future directions for research. Further research on captive and wild quoll populations will benefit future translocations, reintroductions and conservation through increased knowledge, improved maintenance and husbandry of captive colonies, and monitoring of wild populations.
Collapse
|
4
|
Hamilton DG, Jones ME, Cameron EZ, Kerlin DH, McCallum H, Storfer A, Hohenlohe PA, Hamede RK. Infectious disease and sickness behaviour: tumour progression affects interaction patterns and social network structure in wild Tasmanian devils. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20202454. [PMID: 33290679 PMCID: PMC7739934 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.2454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases, including transmissible cancers, can have a broad range of impacts on host behaviour, particularly in the latter stages of disease progression. However, the difficulty of early diagnoses makes the study of behavioural influences of disease in wild animals a challenging task. Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) are affected by a transmissible cancer, devil facial tumour disease (DFTD), in which tumours are externally visible as they progress. Using telemetry and mark-recapture datasets, we quantify the impacts of cancer progression on the behaviour of wild devils by assessing how interaction patterns within the social network of a population change with increasing tumour load. The progression of DFTD negatively influences devils' likelihood of interaction within their network. Infected devils were more active within their network late in the mating season, a pattern with repercussions for DFTD transmission. Our study provides a rare opportunity to quantify and understand the behavioural feedbacks of disease in wildlife and how they may affect transmission and population dynamics in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David G. Hamilton
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia,e-mail:
| | - Menna E. Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Elissa Z. Cameron
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia,School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Douglas H. Kerlin
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Hamish McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, USA
| | | | - Rodrigo K. Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia,CANECEV, Centre de Recherches Ecologiques et Evolutives sur le Cancer (CREEC), Montpellier 34090, France,e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cope HR, Peck S, Hobbs R, Keeley T, Izzard S, Yeen-Yap W, White PJ, Hogg CJ, Herbert CA. Contraceptive efficacy and dose-response effects of the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist deslorelin in Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii). Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1473-1485. [PMID: 31046901 DOI: 10.1071/rd18407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Contraception is increasingly used to manage breeding opportunities in conservation-dependent species. This study aimed to determine the efficacy, duration of effect, optimal dose and potential side effects of Suprelorin contraceptive implants in Tasmanian devils, for use in the conservation breeding program. In our pilot study, Suprelorin was found to effectively suppress oestrous cycles in female devils, yet caused a paradoxical increase in testosterone in males. Therefore, we focussed on females in further trials. Females received one (n=5), two (n=5) or no (n=5) Suprelorin implants, with quarterly gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) challenges used to test pituitary responsiveness over two breeding seasons. Both Suprelorin doses suppressed pituitary responsiveness for at least one breeding season, with a reduced effect in the second. There was a dose-response effect on duration rather than magnitude of effect, with high-dose devils remaining suppressed for longer than low-dose animals. There were no apparent negative effects on general health, yet captivity and contraception together may cause weight gain. Suprelorin contraceptive implants are now routinely used in the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program insurance metapopulation to meet the aims of maintaining genetic and behavioural integrity by controlling individual reproductive contributions in group housing situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly R Cope
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, J.D. Stewart Building B01, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Sarah Peck
- Wildlife Management Branch, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas. 7000, Australia
| | - Rebecca Hobbs
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation Society, NSW 2088, Australia
| | - Tamara Keeley
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld 4343, Australia
| | - Stephen Izzard
- Wildlife Management Branch, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas. 7000, Australia
| | | | - Peter J White
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, R.M.C. Gunn Building B19, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Carolyn J Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, J.D. Stewart Building B01, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; and Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia
| | - Catherine A Herbert
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, J.D. Stewart Building B01, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gooley RM, Hogg CJ, Fox S, Pemberton D, Belov K, Grueber CE. Inbreeding depression in one of the last DFTD-free wild populations of Tasmanian devils. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9220. [PMID: 32587794 PMCID: PMC7304431 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulnerable species experiencing inbreeding depression are prone to localised extinctions because of their reduced fitness. For Tasmanian devils, the rapid spread of devil facial tumour disease (DFTD) has led to population declines and fragmentation across the species' range. Here we show that one of the few remaining DFTD-free populations of Tasmanian devils is experiencing inbreeding depression. Moreover, this population has experienced a significant reduction in reproductive success over recent years. METHODS We used 32 microsatellite loci to examine changes in genetic diversity and inbreeding in the wild population at Woolnorth, alongside field data on breeding success from females to test for inbreeding depression. RESULTS Wefound that maternal internal relatedness has a negative impact on litter sizes. The results of this study imply that this population may be entering an extinction vortex and that to protect the population genetic rescue should be considered. This study provides conservation managers with useful information for managing wild devils and provides support for the "Wild Devil Recovery Program", which is currently augmenting small, isolated populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Gooley
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carolyn J. Hogg
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samantha Fox
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Toledo Zoo, Toledo, OH, United States of America
| | - David Pemberton
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Katherine Belov
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Catherine E. Grueber
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Guilhon GN, Braga C, De Oliveira JA. Pelage variation and reproduction in the gray short-tailed opossum Monodelphis domestica (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae). J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Marsupials have short gestation periods, with altricial neonates completing their development attached to a teat, a condition that induces remarkable structural changes in the inguinal region of reproductive females. In this study, we analyzed the morphological variation in the inguinal region of female museum specimens of Monodelphis domestica in search for external traits reminiscent of their reproductive condition when collected. We examined 427 taxidermied skins of wild females from northeastern Brazil and classified their inguinal region by color, density of fur, shape, and the presence of spots and teats. We determined relative age based on tooth eruption and wear, to infer the chronological order of inguinal changes. These conditions were computed for each age class and for each month over 4 years for samples from two mesoregions in northeastern Brazil, identified from climatic characteristics. Four distinct morphological patterns recognized in the inguinal region of females were associated with the following reproductive conditions: 1) non-lactating: general shape of the pelvic region indistinct from the rest of body (straight), inguinal region lacking teats, same fur density and color (grayish) as the rest of the body; 2) pre-lactating: pelvic and inguinal regions similar to non-lactating, but yellowish fur and presence of small teats; 3) early-lactating: inguinal region with well-developed teats, fur yellowish (rarely whitish) and less dense, and form of the pelvic region rounded; and 4) late or post-lactating: inguinal region with well-developed teats and dark orange and less dense fur, pelvic region rounded. Lactating females were only recorded from age class 4 on. We also found indications that pelage changes in the inguinal region do not revert after reproduction in the wild. Monthly frequencies of the different conditions recorded for lactating females corroborate previous studies that suggested that M. domestica breeds all year long in northeastern Brazil.
Marsupiais caracterizam-se por apresentar um curto período de gestação, com neonatos altriciais completando seu desenvolvimento ligados à teta, uma condição que induz mudanças estruturais marcantes na região inguinal de fêmeas reprodutivas. No presente estudo analisamos a variação morfológica da região inguinal de fêmeas taxidermizadas de Monodelphis domestica, buscando traços reminiscentes de suas condições reprodutivas quando coletadas. Examinamos 427 peles taxidermizadas de fêmeas silvestres obtidas no Nordeste do Brasil, e classificamos a região inguinal pela cor, densidade de pelos, presença de manchas e tetas, e forma da região pélvica. Determinamos a idade relativa com base na erupção e no desgaste dentário, para inferir a ordem cronológica das mudanças inguinais. Essas condições foram registradas para cada idade e por cada mês ao longo de 4 anos para amostras de duas mesorregiões no Nordeste do Brasil, identificadas com base em características climáticas. Quatro padrões morfológicos distintos reconhecidos na região inguinal das fêmeas foram associadas às seguintes condições reprodutivas: 1) não-lactante: forma geral da região pélvica indistinta do resto do corpo (retas), região inguinal sem tetas e mesma cor e densidade da pelagem (cinza) que o resto do corpo; 2) pré-lactante: regiões inguinal e pélvica similares às do padrão não-lactante, mas pelagem amarelada e presença de tetas pequenas; 3) lactante inicial: região inguinal com tetas bem desenvolvidas, pelagem inguinal amarelada (raramente branca) e menos densa, forma da região pélvica arredondada; 4) lactante tardia ou pós-lactante: região inguinal com tetas bem desenvolvidas, pelagem laranja escura e menos densa, região pélvica arredondada. Fêmeas lactantes foram observadas apenas da classe de idade 4 em diante. Encontramos evidências de que a mudança da pelagem na região inguinal não é revertida depois da reprodução na natureza. Frequências mensais das diferentes condições reprodutivas das fêmeas observadas corroboram estudos prévios que sugerem que M. domestica pode se reproduzir ao longo de todo o ano no Nordeste do Brasil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabby Neves Guilhon
- Museu Nacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Departamento de Vertebrados, Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Caryne Braga
- Museu Nacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Departamento de Vertebrados, Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Biodiversidade e Sustentabilidade - NUPEM/UFRJ, Barreto, Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | - João Alves De Oliveira
- Museu Nacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Departamento de Vertebrados, Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hamilton DG, Jones ME, Cameron EZ, McCallum H, Storfer A, Hohenlohe PA, Hamede RK. Rate of intersexual interactions affects injury likelihood in Tasmanian devil contact networks. Behav Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arz054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Identifying the types of contacts that result in disease transmission is important for accurately modeling and predicting transmission dynamics and disease spread in wild populations. We investigated contacts within a population of adult Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) over a 6-month period and tested whether individual-level contact patterns were correlated with accumulation of bite wounds. Bite wounds are important in the spread of devil facial tumor disease, a clonal cancer cell line transmitted through direct inoculation of tumor cells when susceptible and infected individuals bite each other. We used multimodel inference and network autocorrelation models to investigate the effects of individual-level contact patterns, identities of interacting partners, and position within the social network on the propensity to be involved in bite-inducing contacts. We found that males were more likely to receive potentially disease-transmitting bite wounds than females, particularly during the mating season when males spend extended periods mate-guarding females. The number of bite wounds individuals received during the mating season was unrelated to any of the network metrics examined. Our approach illustrates the necessity for understanding which contact types spread disease in different systems to assist the management of this and other infectious wildlife diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David G Hamilton
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania Australia
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania Australia
| | - Elissa Z Cameron
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Hamish McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland Australia
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Paul A Hohenlohe
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Rodrigo K Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ruiz-Aravena M, Jones ME, Carver S, Estay S, Espejo C, Storfer A, Hamede RK. Sex bias in ability to cope with cancer: Tasmanian devils and facial tumour disease. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:rspb.2018.2239. [PMID: 30464069 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the ecological dynamics between hosts and pathogens during the initial stages of disease emergence is crucial to understanding the potential for evolution of new interspecific interactions. Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) populations have declined precipitously owing to infection by a transmissible cancer (devil facial tumour disease, DFTD) that emerged approximately 20 years ago. Since the emergence of DFTD, and as the disease spreads across Tasmania, the number of devils has dropped up to 90% across 80% of the species's distributional range. As a result, the disease is expected to act as a strong selective force on hosts to develop mechanisms of tolerance and/or resistance to the infection. We assessed the ability of infected devils to cope with infection, which translates into host tolerance to the cancer, by using the reaction norm of the individual body condition by tumour burden. We found that body condition of infected hosts is negatively affected by cancer progression. Males and females presented significant differences in their tolerance levels to infection, with males suffering declines of up to 25% of their body condition, in contrast to less than 5% in females. Sex-related differences in tolerance to cancer progression may select for changes in life-history strategies of the host and could also alter the selective environment for the tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Scott Carver
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Sergio Estay
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Evolutivas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Espejo
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Rodrigo K Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lazenby BT, Tobler MW, Brown WE, Hawkins CE, Hocking GJ, Hume F, Huxtable S, Iles P, Jones ME, Lawrence C, Thalmann S, Wise P, Williams H, Fox S, Pemberton D. Density trends and demographic signals uncover the long-term impact of transmissible cancer in Tasmanian devils. J Appl Ecol 2018; 55:1368-1379. [PMID: 30089931 PMCID: PMC6078421 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
1. Monitoring the response of wild mammal populations to threatening processes is fundamental to effective conservation management. This is especially true for infectious diseases, which may have dynamic and therefore unpredictable interactions with their host. 2. We investigate the long-term impact of a transmissible cancer, devil facial tumour disease (DFTD), on the endemic Tasmanian devil. We analyse trends in devil spot-light counts and density across the area impacted by the disease. We investigate the demographic parameters which might be driving these trends, and use spatial capture-recapture models to examine whether DFTD has affected home range size. 3. We found that devils have declined by an average of 77% in areas affected by DFTD, and that there is a congruent trend of ongoing small decline in spotlight counts and density estimates. Despite this, devils have persisted to date within each of nine monitoring sites. One site is showing as yet unexplained small increases in density 8-10 years after the emergence of DFTD. 4. We also found the prevalence of DFTD has not abated despite large declines in density and that diseased sites continue to be dominated by young devils. The long-term impact of the disease has been partially offset by increased fecundity in the form of precocial breeding in 1-year-old females, and more pouch young per female in diseased sites. The lower densities resulting from DFTD did not affect home range size. 5. Synthesis and applications. Transmission of devil facial tumour disease continues despite large declines in devil density over multiple generations. Plasticity in life history traits has ameliorated the impact of devil facial tumour disease, however broad-scale trends in density show ongoing decline. In light of this, devil facial tumour disease and the impact of stochastic events on the reduced densities wrought by the disease, continue to threaten devils. In the absence of methods to manage disease in wild populations, we advocate managing the low population densities resulting from disease rather than disease per se.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Billie T Lazenby
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Mathias W Tobler
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Global Zoo, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - William E Brown
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Clare E Hawkins
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Greg J Hocking
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Fiona Hume
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Stewart Huxtable
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Philip Iles
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Clare Lawrence
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Sam Thalmann
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Phil Wise
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Howel Williams
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - Samantha Fox
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| | - David Pemberton
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Hobart, Tas., Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wells K, Hamede RK, Kerlin DH, Storfer A, Hohenlohe PA, Jones ME, McCallum HI. Infection of the fittest: devil facial tumour disease has greatest effect on individuals with highest reproductive output. Ecol Lett 2017; 20:770-778. [PMID: 28489304 PMCID: PMC6759051 DOI: 10.1111/ele.12776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases rarely affect all members of a population equally and determining how individuals' susceptibility to infection is related to other components of their fitness is critical to understanding disease impacts at a population level and for predicting evolutionary trajectories. We introduce a novel state-space model framework to investigate survival and fecundity of Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) affected by a transmissible cancer, devil facial tumour disease. We show that those devils that become host to tumours have otherwise greater fitness, with higher survival and fecundity rates prior to disease-induced death than non-host individuals that do not become infected, although high tumour loads lead to high mortality. Our finding that individuals with the greatest reproductive value are those most affected by the cancer demonstrates the need to quantify both survival and fecundity in context of disease progression for understanding the impact of disease on wildlife populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstans Wells
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Rodrigo K. Hamede
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tas 7001, Australia
| | - Douglas H. Kerlin
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Paul A. Hohenlohe
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
| | - Menna E. Jones
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, Tas 7001, Australia
| | - Hamish I. McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rose RK, Pemberton DA, Mooney NJ, Jones ME. Sarcophilus harrisii (Dasyuromorphia: Dasyuridae). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/mspecies/sex001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
|
13
|
Morrow GE, Jones SM, Nicol SC. Frozen embryos? Torpor during pregnancy in the Tasmanian short-beaked echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus setosus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 244:139-145. [PMID: 26562301 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We studied the interaction between torpor and reproduction in free-ranging female Tasmanian echidnas using a combination of techniques including urogenital smears, hormone analysis, ultrasonography, external temperature loggers and camera traps. Male echidnas initiated mating activity by locating hibernating females. All females that mated or were disturbed by males prior to July 27 re-entered hibernation, including many that were pregnant. Pregnant females only entered hibernation in early pregnancy when plasma progesterone concentrations were about twice basal and progesterone then remained constant during torpor. By re-entering hibernation pregnant females extended their gestation period and delayed egg-laying. Progesterone peaked 4-6days before egg-laying, then dropped rapidly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma E Morrow
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sue M Jones
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Stewart C Nicol
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Peck S, Corkrey R, Hamede R, Jones M, Canfield P. Hematologic and serum biochemical reference intervals for wild Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii). Vet Clin Pathol 2015; 44:519-29. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Peck
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
- Wildlife Management Branch; Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment; Hobart Tas. Australia
| | - Ross Corkrey
- School of Agricultural Science; Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture; Hobart Tas. Australia
| | - Rodrigo Hamede
- School of Zoology; University of Tasmania; Hobart Tas. Australia
| | - Menna Jones
- School of Zoology; University of Tasmania; Hobart Tas. Australia
| | - Paul Canfield
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mills HR, Bradshaw FJ, Lambert C, Bradshaw SD, Bencini R. Reproduction in the marsupial dibbler, Parantechinus apicalis; differences between island and mainland populations. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2012; 178:347-54. [PMID: 22750511 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Details of the reproductive endocrinology of the dibbler, Parantechinus apicalis, an endangered member of the Family Dasyuridae, are presented from two geographically-separated populations, living either on the mainland or on islands in Jurien Bay, Western Australia. Plasma free cortisol in males measured in the island population during 1998/9 did not differ between the breeding and non-breeding season, but during the March rut in 2000, when males died after breeding, free cortisol levels were significantly raised. Post-mating mortality in dibbler males is facultative, rather than obligatory and the cortisol data implicate the same physiological sequelae described in other dasyurids. In females, a single annual oestrus was recorded during late summer to autumn in both populations with an onset earlier by 12 days in the mainland animals. Faecal steroids excreted as progesterone metabolites (PM) and oestradiol-17β were measured during the annual oestrous period and showed significantly higher PM concentrations in island animals. Oestradiol, although raised, was not different between the two populations. A profile of PM levels throughout gestation revealed a small peak at the time of ovulation, followed by slowly rising levels to peak 8 days before birth, indicating slow development of the corpora lutea. Using collective data, the presumptive day of ovulation could be identified, allowing the calculation of a presumptive gestation length of 45days in dibblers from mainland populations. This gestation length compares with that of a related species, Pseudantechinus macdonnellensis, reported at 45-55 days. A surprising finding is the significantly shorter gestation period of approximately 38 days in island animals compared with those from the mainland. This and other differences between reproductive parameters of island and mainland populations are discussed in the context of the 'island syndrome'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H R Mills
- School of Animal Biology M092, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hogan L, Phillips C, Lisle A, Keeley T, Horsup A, Janssen T, Johnston S. Non-invasive methods of oestrus detection in captive southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons). Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 119:293-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2009] [Revised: 01/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
17
|
Oestrus in the Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) is associated with wheel running behaviour but not necessarily changes in body weight, food consumption or pouch morphology. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 117:135-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2009] [Revised: 03/06/2009] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
18
|
Stannard HJ, Old JM. Observation of reproductive strategies of captive kultarrs (Antechinomys laniger). AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2010. [DOI: 10.1071/am10011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Captive kultarrs (Antechinomys laniger) were bred from June to February. Their gestation period was longer than 12 days, as suggested by previous research. Pouches were observed to determine whether births occurred. Individuals were capable of producing offspring in their second and third year of life, which has been suspected previously, but never demonstrated in other published studies.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hamede RK, Bashford J, McCallum H, Jones M. Contact networks in a wild Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) population: using social network analysis to reveal seasonal variability in social behaviour and its implications for transmission of devil facial tumour disease. Ecol Lett 2009; 12:1147-57. [PMID: 19694783 DOI: 10.1111/j.1461-0248.2009.01370.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The structure of the contact network between individuals has a profound effect on the transmission of infectious disease. Using a novel technology--proximity sensing radio collars--we described the contact network in a population of Tasmanian devils. This largest surviving marsupial carnivore is threatened by a novel infectious cancer. All devils were connected in a single giant component, which would permit disease to spread throughout the network from any single infected individual. Unlike the contact networks for many human diseases, the degree distribution was not highly aggregated. Nevertheless, the empirically derived networks differed from random networks. Contact networks differed between the mating and non-mating seasons, with more extended male-female associations in the mating season and a greater frequency of female-female associations outside the mating season. Our results suggest that there is limited potential to control the disease by targeting highly connected age or sex classes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo K Hamede
- School of Zoology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|