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Sato I, Narita D. Does expanding wild venison consumption substitute livestock meat consumption? Evidence from the demand systems analysis of meat products in Hokkaido, Japan. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:173980. [PMID: 38879030 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
In many countries, growing deer populations cause environmental, economic, and traffic safety problems. This study sheds light on the potential implications of expanding the consumption of venison from hunted wild deer through deer population management efforts. It focuses on changes in environmental impacts resulting from changes in the demand for livestock meat due to increased consumption of wild venison. We analyzed the demand system between them using the Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System (QUAIDS) model and scanner data from a grocery store chain in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. The results show that wild venison is a substitute good for pork and lamb. By contrast, wild venison is a complementary good for imported and domestic beef. Based on the estimated demand system model, we conducted an environmental footprint analysis to estimate the changes in environmental impacts when venison consumption increased. This shows that the greenhouse gas, water, and land footprints would increase, indicating greater environmental impacts, under a scenario of expanded venison consumption. The results demonstrate that increased venison consumption does not necessarily reduce the net environmental impacts of meat consumption, which depends on the demand system for meat products and the environmental footprint intensities of the respective products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichiro Sato
- Graduate Program on Environmental Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan.
| | - Daiju Narita
- Graduate Program on Environmental Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
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2
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Shamsi S, Brown K, Francis N, Barton DP, Jenkins DJ. First findings of Sarcocystis species in game deer and feral pigs in Australia. Int J Food Microbiol 2024; 421:110780. [PMID: 38909489 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2024.110780] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Several wild game meat species, including deer and feral pigs are hunted and consumed in Australia. Feral pigs and deer are not indigenous to Australia, but they have proliferated extensively and established their presence in every state and territory. Following the report of a sambar deer displaying Sarcocystis like white cysts in its rump muscles, the present study was conducted to explore the prevalence of Sarcocystis infections in wild deer and feral pigs in the southeastern regions of Australia. Oesophagus, diaphragm, and heart tissue from 90 deer and eight feral pigs were examined visually for sarcocysts. All results were negative. PCR testing of randomly selected deer and feral pigs yielded positive results, which were subsequently supported by histopathology. This is the first study to report the presence of Sarcocystis spp. in deer and feral pigs in Australia. As no visual cysts were found on the heart or oesophagus that came back positive with PCR, infected animals, particularly those reared free-range, could be passing through meat quality checks unidentified. If people consume this meat without cooking it properly, it may lead to a human infection of Sarcocystis. However, a more targeted study focused on determining the parasite's prevalence and assessing its risks is necessary to determine if it constitutes a food safety issue. As this species has been found not only in feral pigs but also in domestic pigs, the potential for infection spreading between feral pigs and pigs in free-range livestock systems is high, potentially posing a large problem for the Australian pork industry, particularly with the increased emphasis on free-range pig husbandry. Future studies should concentrate on determining the species of Sarcocystis in feral animals commonly consumed as game meat to determine potential zoonotic risks. This could also include a more in-depth look at the prevalence of Sarcocystis infections in other game animals. Identifying where these parasites are present and to what extent, are important areas for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokoofeh Shamsi
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga 2678, Australia.
| | - Keira Brown
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga 2678, Australia.
| | - Nidhish Francis
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga 2678, Australia
| | - Diane P Barton
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga 2678, Australia
| | - David J Jenkins
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga 2678, Australia
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Brown K, Jenkins DJ, Gofton AW, Smith I, Francis N, Shamsi S, Barton DP. The first finding of Dictyocaulus cervi and Dictyocaulus skrjabini (Nematoda) in feral fallow deer ( Dama dama) in Australia. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 24:100953. [PMID: 38938270 PMCID: PMC11209017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100953] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Feral deer are widespread throughout Australia with the capacity to impact livestock production via transmission of parasites. Samples of Dama dama (fallow deer), Rusa unicolor (sambar deer), Cervus elaphus (red deer) and an unidentified deer were sourced from various locations in south-eastern Australia for examination for parasites. Adult nematodes were collected from the lungs of all deer species across four separate geographical locations. The nematodes were identified as species of Dictyocaulus through both morphological and molecular means. Species identification based on morphological features was difficult, with many measurements from described species overlapping. Molecular analyses targeting three markers, namely 18S rRNA, ITS2, and cox1 revealed the presence of two distinct species: Dictyocaulus cervi and Dictyocaulus skrjabini. These are the first genetically confirmed reports of species of Dictyocaulus in feral deer in Australia, and although cross-transmission of species of Dictyocaulus with livestock has not yet been reported, it cannot be completely discounted without further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keira Brown
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David J. Jenkins
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alexander W. Gofton
- CSIRO, Health and Biosecurity, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Ina Smith
- CSIRO, Health and Biosecurity, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Nidhish Francis
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shokoofeh Shamsi
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Diane P. Barton
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Doyle M, Forsyth DM, Helbig KJ, Carvalho TG. Evidence of Australian wild deer exposure to N. caninum infection and potential implications for the maintenance of N. caninum sylvatic cycle. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:153. [PMID: 37705000 PMCID: PMC10498561 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03712-2] [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: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections with the coccidian parasite Neospora caninum affect domestic and wild animals worldwide. In Australia, N. caninum infections cause considerable losses to the cattle industry with seroprevalence of 8.7% in beef and 10.9% in dairy cattle. Conversely, the role of wild animals, in maintaining the parasite cycle is also unclear. It is possible that native or introduced herbivorous species could be reservoir hosts of N. caninum in Australia, but to date, this has not been investigated. We report here the first large-scale screening of N. caninum antibodies in Australian wild deer, spanning three species (fallow, red and sambar deer). Consequently, we also assessed two commercial cELISA tests validated for detecting N. caninum in cattle for their ability to detect N. caninum antibodies in serum samples of wild deer. N. caninum antibodies were detected in 3.7% (7/189, 95% CI 1.8 - 7.45) of the wild deer serum samples collected in south-eastern Australia (n = 189), including 97 fallow deer (Dama dama), 14 red deer (Cervus elaphus), and 78 sambar deer (Rusa unicolor). Overall, our study provides the first detection of N. caninum antibodies in wild deer and quantifies deer's potential role in the sylvatic cycle of N. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Huaman
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Land, Water and Planning, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Mark Doyle
- South East Local Land Services, Bega, NSW, Australia
| | - David M Forsyth
- Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW, Orange Agricultural Institute, Orange, NSW, Australia
| | - Karla J Helbig
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Teresa G Carvalho
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Pchelnikov AV, Yatsenyuk SP, Krasnikova MS. [Circulation of bovine herpesvirus (Herpesviridae: Varicellovirus) and bovine viral diarrhea virus (Flaviviridae: Pestivirus) among wild artiodactyls of the Moscow region]. Vopr Virusol 2023; 68:142-151. [PMID: 37264849 DOI: 10.36233/0507-4088-167] [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: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pestiviruses and viruses of the Herpesviridae family are widely distributed among different species of ungulates, but the main information about these pathogens is related to their effect on farm animals. Data on detection of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and bovine herpes virus (BoHV) in wild ungulates reported from different countries in recent years raises the question of the role of wild animals in the epidemiology of cattle diseases. AIM OF WORK To study the prevalence of herpesviruses and pestiviruses in the population of wild artiodactyls of the Moscow region. MATERIALS AND METHODS Samples of parenchymal organs and mucosal swabs from 124 wild deer (moose and roe deer) shot during hunting seasons 20192022 in Moscow Region were examined by PCR, virological and serological methods for the presence of genetic material and antibodies to bovine infectious rhinotracheitis and viral diarrhea. RESULTS BVDV RNA was found in a sample from one moose, BoHV DNA was detected in samples from three roe deer and two moose shot in the Moscow region. Seropositive animals were of different sex and age, the total BoHVs and BVDV seroprevalence rates in wild artiodactyls were 46 and 29%, respectively. CONCLUSION Wild ruminant artiodactyls of the Moscow Region can be a natural reservoir of BoHV-1, and this must be taken into account when planning and organizing measures to control the infectious bovine rhinotracheitis. Cases of BVDV infection in wild artiodactyls are less common, so more research is needed to definitively establish their role in the epidemiology of this disease in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Pchelnikov
- All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Medicines for Animals and Feed
- Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology - MBA named after K.I. Skryabin
| | - S P Yatsenyuk
- All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Medicines for Animals and Feed
- Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology - MBA named after K.I. Skryabin
| | - M S Krasnikova
- All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Medicines for Animals and Feed
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6
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Voss L, Huaman J, Pacioni C, Tolpinrud A, Helbig K, Carvalho TG, Firestone SM. Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii antibodies in wild deer populations in eastern Australia. Aust Vet J 2023; 101:106-114. [PMID: 36544232 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii causes significant reproduction losses in livestock and the disease Q fever in humans. Transmission of C. burnetii is facilitated by the stability of the bacterium in the environment and the susceptibility of a variety of host species to infection. Consequently, inter-species transmission occurs frequently through either direct or indirect contact. Wildlife may represent reservoirs of C. burnetii and could therefore be a source of infection for domestic animals. Understanding the prevalence of C. burnetii infections at the wildlife-livestock interface is important for disease control. This study aimed to investigate the extent of C. burnetii exposure in wild deer in eastern Australia. Serum samples were obtained from 413 wild deer from seven regions in four eastern Australian states from 2017 to 2020. Antibodies were detected using a commercial Q fever antibody kit validated for ruminants. Seroprevalence of C. burnetii antibodies in deer was determined and true prevalence estimated, for each region. The overall seroprevalence of C. burnetii antibodies in wild deer was 3.4% (14 seropositive of 413 deer sampled) with true prevalence estimated to be 4.3% (95% credible interval: 0.6%, 10.9%). Seropositive deer were identified only in Queensland (7/108 seropositive) and northern New South Wales (7/120 seropositive). This geospatial distribution is consistent with seropositivity in other animal species and indicative of the level of C. burnetii in the environment. The low seroprevalence suggests that wild deer are unlikely to be a major reservoir species for C. burnetii in eastern Australia but may still be implicated in inter-species transmission cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Voss
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Huaman
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - C Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - A Tolpinrud
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Helbig
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - T G Carvalho
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - S M Firestone
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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7
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Santodomingo A, Robbiano S, Thomas R, Parragué-Migone C, Cabello-Stom J, Vera-Otarola F, Valencia-Soto C, Moreira-Arce D, Moreno L, Hidalgo-Hermoso E, Muñoz-Leal S. A search for piroplasmids and spirochetes in threatened pudu (Pudu puda) and associated ticks from Southern Chile unveils a novel Babesia sp. and a variant of Borrelia chilensis. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:3737-3748. [PMID: 36317891 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cervids are important hosts for ticks and although they are refractory to some tick-borne agents such as Borrelia, they do act as reservoirs for others such as Babesia. Babesia and Borrelia are commonly transmitted by Ixodes spp. associated with deer, and most of the knowledge on their biological cycles comes from northern latitudes of the globe. In this study, we performed genetic screenings to detect tick-borne agents in blood and Ixodes stilesi ticks collected from an insular population of threatened pudu (Pudu puda), a pygmy deer species that inhabits temperate rainforests of southern South America. Inferred by phylogenetic analyses for 18S rRNA, COI and cytb genes, our results unveiled a novel genospecies of Babesia (Babesia sp. pudui) genetically related to Babesia odocoilei, a species that infects Odocoileus virginianus deer in North America. Although blood of the deer was negative for Borrelia infection, multilocus sequencing typing performed in one I. stilesi tick revealed the occurrence of a novel genetic variant of Borrelia chilensis, differing 0.93% and 0.18% in flaB and pepX genes with the type of strain for the species, respectively. Such a genetic divergence could be the result of thousands of years of isolation because of recent glaciation events that separated pudus and their tick populations at Chiloé Island approximately 437,000 years ago. The finding of a Babesia sp. has no precedents for wild and domestic ungulates in Chile and shows a novel piroplasmid that must be considered now on in rehabilitation centres and zoos that attend pudu deer. Further research is now necessary to confirm pathogenic roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Santodomingo
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Sofía Robbiano
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Richard Thomas
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Catalina Parragué-Migone
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | | | - Frank Vera-Otarola
- Escuela de Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Universidad San Sebastián, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Carola Valencia-Soto
- Escuela de Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Universidad San Sebastián, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Darío Moreira-Arce
- Departamento de Gestión Agraria, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB), Santiago, Chile
| | - Lucila Moreno
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | | | - Sebastián Muñoz-Leal
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
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Yatsentyuk SP, Pchelnikov AV, Safina ER, Krasnikova MS. The first study on the occurrence of bovine herpesviruses in the wild fauna of the Moscow region, Russia. Vet World 2022; 15:2052-2058. [PMID: 36313846 PMCID: PMC9615503 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2052-2058] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Some pathogens that cause infections in cattle are found in wild artiodactyls. Their prevalence, possible impact on the population of free-living animals, and the spread of infectious pathology in livestock have yet to be studied. We investigated the occurrence of bovine herpesviruses (BoHV-1, BoHV-4, and BoHV-6) among wild moose and roe deer in 8 areas of the Moscow region in the Russian Federation. Materials and Methods: One hundred and one tissue samples and nasal swabs of 24 moose and seven roe deer were studied using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for BoHV-1 DNA and conventional PCR for BoHV-4 and BoHV-6 DNA. A virus neutralization test (VNT) was used to detect antibodies to BoHV-1 in 19 serum samples. The final antibody titer was calculated with the Spearman-Kärber method. Results: BoHV-4 and BoHV-6 DNA were not detected in all studied samples of 31 animals. BoHV-1 DNA was detected using a real-time PCR in nasal swabs from 2 adult roe deer. For BoHV-1, only 9/19 tested serum samples reacted positive in VNT with the titer range from 0.67 ± 0.19 to 3.75 ± 0.10 log2. Antibodies were detected in all age groups, more often in fawns under 1-year-old. The seropositivity of females was higher than in males. Conclusion: Wild ungulates can potentially represent a reservoir of new pathogenic livestock viruses. To study the prevalence and genetic diversity of wild ungulate herpesviruses, detailed molecular studies of the cervid herpesvirus 1, cervid herpesvirus 2, and elk herpesvirus 1 are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana P. Yatsentyuk
- Department of Biotechnology, Russian State Center for Animal Feed and Drug Standardization and Quality, Zvenigorodskoe Highway, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander V. Pchelnikov
- Department of Biotechnology, Russian State Center for Animal Feed and Drug Standardization and Quality, Zvenigorodskoe Highway, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elizaveta R. Safina
- Department of Biotechnology, Russian State Center for Animal Feed and Drug Standardization and Quality, Zvenigorodskoe Highway, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria S. Krasnikova
- Department of Biotechnology, Russian State Center for Animal Feed and Drug Standardization and Quality, Zvenigorodskoe Highway, Moscow, Russia
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9
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Kenchington-Evans L, Doyle M, Helbig KJ, Carvalho TG. First Evidence of Entamoeba Parasites in Australian Wild Deer and Assessment of Transmission to Cattle. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:883031. [PMID: 35755840 PMCID: PMC9226911 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.883031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Australian wild deer populations have significantly expanded in size and distribution in recent decades. Due to their role in pathogen transmission, these deer populations pose a biosecurity risk to the livestock industry. However, little is known about the infection status of wild deer in Australia. The intestinal parasite Entamoeba bovis has been previously detected in farm and wild ruminants worldwide, but its epidemiology and distribution in wild ruminants remain largely unexplored. To investigate this knowledge gap, faecal samples of wild deer and domestic cattle from south-eastern Australia were collected and analysed for the presence of Entamoeba spp. using PCR and phylogenetic analysis of the conserved 18S rRNA gene. E. bovis parasites were detected at high prevalence in cattle and wild deer hosts, and two distinct Entamoeba ribosomal lineages (RLs), RL1 and RL8, were identified in wild deer. Phylogenetic analysis further revealed the existance of a novel Entamoeba species in sambar deer and a novel Entamoeba RL in fallow deer. While we anticipated cross-species transmission of E. bovis between wild deer and cattle, the data generated in this study demonstrated transmission is yet to occur in Australia. Overall, this study has identified novel variants of Entamoeba and constitutes the first report of Entamoeba in fallow deer and sambar deer, expanding the host range of this parasite. Epidemiological investigations and continued surveillance of Entamoeba parasites in farm ruminants and wild animals will be required to evaluate pathogen emergence and transmission to livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Huaman
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Lily Kenchington-Evans
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Doyle
- Far South Coast, South East Local Land Services, Bega, NSW, Australia
| | - Karla J Helbig
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Teresa G Carvalho
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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10
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Sarker S, Doyle M, Forsyth DM, Pople A, Carvalho TG, Helbig KJ. Novel Picornavirus Detected in Wild Deer: Identification, Genomic Characterisation, and Prevalence in Australia. Viruses 2021; 13:v13122412. [PMID: 34960681 PMCID: PMC8706930 DOI: 10.3390/v13122412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of high-throughput sequencing has facilitated virus discovery in wild animals and helped determine their potential threat to humans and other animals. We report the complete genome sequence of a novel picornavirus identified by next-generation sequencing in faeces from Australian fallow deer. Genomic analysis revealed that this virus possesses a typical picornavirus-like genomic organisation of 7554 nt with a single open reading frame (ORF) encoding a polyprotein of 2225 amino acids. Based on the amino acid identity comparison and phylogenetic analysis of the P1, 2C, 3CD, and VP1 regions, this novel picornavirus was closely related to but distinct from known bopiviruses detected to date. This finding suggests that deer/bopivirus could belong to a novel species within the genus Bopivirus, tentatively designated as "Bopivirus C". Epidemiological investigation of 91 deer (71 fallow, 14 sambar and 6 red deer) and 23 cattle faecal samples showed that six fallow deer and one red deer (overall prevalence 7.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.8-15.0%) tested positive, but deer/bopivirus was undetectable in sambar deer and cattle. In addition, phylogenetic and sequence analyses indicate that the same genotype is circulating in south-eastern Australia. To our knowledge, this study reports for the first time a deer-origin bopivirus and the presence of a member of genus Bopivirus in Australia. Further epidemiological and molecular studies are needed to investigate the geographic distribution and pathogenic potential of this novel Bopivirus species in other domestic and wild animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L. Huaman
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia; (J.L.H.); (S.S.); (T.G.C.)
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia;
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Subir Sarker
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia; (J.L.H.); (S.S.); (T.G.C.)
| | - Mark Doyle
- South East Local Land Services, Bega, NSW 2550, Australia;
| | - David M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, Department of Primary Industries, Orange Agricultural Institute, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia;
| | - Anthony Pople
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Invasive Plants & Animals Research, Biosecurity Queensland, Ecosciences Precinct, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia;
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia; (J.L.H.); (S.S.); (T.G.C.)
| | - Karla J. Helbig
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia; (J.L.H.); (S.S.); (T.G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-9479-6650
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Sudholz A, Denman S, Pople A, Brennan M, Amos M, Hamilton G. A comparison of manual and automated detection of rusa deer (. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/wr20169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Context Monitoring is an essential part of managing invasive species; however, accurate, cost-effective detection techniques are necessary for it to be routinely undertaken. Current detection techniques for invasive deer are time consuming, expensive and have associated biases, which may be overcome by exploiting new technologies. Aims We assessed the accuracy and cost effectiveness of automated detection methods in comparison to manual detection of thermal footage of deer captured by remotely piloted aircraft systems. Methods Thermal footage captured by RPAS was assessed using an algorithm combining two object-detection techniques, namely, YOLO and Faster-RCNN. The number of deer found using manual review on each sampling day was compared with the number of deer found on each day using machine learning. Detection rates were compared across survey areas and sampling occasions. Key results Overall, there was no difference in the mean number of deer detected using manual and that detected by automated review (P = 0.057). The automated-detection algorithm identified between 66.7% and 100% of deer detected using manual review of thermal imagery on all but one of the sampling days. There was no difference in the mean proportion of deer detected using either manual or automated review at three repeated sampling events (P = 0.174). However, identifying deer using the automated review algorithm was 84% cheaper than the cost of manual review. Low cloud cover appeared to affect detectability using the automated review algorithm. Conclusions Automated methods provide a fast and effective way to detect deer. For maximum effectiveness, imagery that encompasses a range of environments should be used as part of the training dataset, as well as large groups for herding species. Adequate sensing conditions are essential to gain accurate counts of deer by automated detection. Implications Machine learning in combination with RPAS may decrease the cost and improve the detection and monitoring of invasive species.
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Forsyth DM, Pople A, Hampton JO, Helbig KJ, Carvalho TG. Evaluation of haemoparasite and Sarcocystis infections in Australian wild deer. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:262-269. [PMID: 34277336 PMCID: PMC8261462 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Wild animals are natural reservoir hosts for a variety of pathogens that can be transmitted to other wildlife, livestock, other domestic animals, and humans. Wild deer (family Cervidae) in Europe, Asia, and North and South America have been reported to be infected with gastrointestinal and vector-borne parasites. In Australia, wild deer populations have expanded considerably in recent years, yet there is little information regarding which pathogens are present and whether these pathogens pose biosecurity threats to humans, wildlife, livestock, or other domestic animals. To address this knowledge gap, PCR-based screening for five parasitic genera was conducted in blood samples (n = 243) sourced from chital deer (Axis axis), fallow deer (Dama dama), rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) and sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) sampled in eastern Australia. These blood samples were tested for the presence of DNA from Plasmodium spp., Trypanosoma spp., Babesia spp., Theileria spp. and Sarcocystis spp. Further, the presence of antibodies against Babesia bovis was investigated in serum samples (n = 105) by immunofluorescence. In this study, neither parasite DNA nor antibodies were detected for any of the five genera investigated. These results indicate that wild deer are not currently host reservoirs for Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Babesia, Theileria or Sarcocystis parasites in eastern Australia. We conclude that in eastern Australia, wild deer do not currently play a significant role in the transmission of these parasites. This survey represents the first large-scale molecular study of its type in Australian wild deer and provides important baseline information about the parasitic infection status of these animals. The expanding populations of wild deer throughout Australia warrant similar surveys in other parts of the country and surveillance efforts to continually assess the level of threat wild deer could pose to humans, wildlife, livestock and other domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L. Huaman
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - David M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, New South Wales, 2800, Australia
| | - Anthony Pople
- Invasive Plants & Animals Research, Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Ecosciences Precinct, Brisbane, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Jordan O. Hampton
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
- Ecotone Wildlife, PO Box 76, Inverloch, Victoria, 3996, Australia
| | - Karla J. Helbig
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
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Molecular Epidemiology and Characterization of Picobirnavirus in Wild Deer and Cattle from Australia: Evidence of Genogroup I and II in the Upper Respiratory Tract. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081492. [PMID: 34452357 PMCID: PMC8402760 DOI: 10.3390/v13081492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Picobirnaviruses (PBVs) have been detected in several species of animals worldwide; however, data pertaining to their presence in Australian wild and domestic animals are limited. Although PBVs are mostly found in faecal samples, their detection in blood and respiratory tract samples raises questions concerning their tropism and pathogenicity. We report here PBV detection in wild deer and cattle from southeastern Australia. Through metagenomics, the presence of PBV genogroups I (GI) and II (GII) were detected in deer serum and plasma. Molecular epidemiology studies targeting the partial RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene were performed in a wide range of specimens (serum, faeces, spleen, lung, nasal swabs, and trachea) collected from wild deer and cattle, with PCR amplification obtained in all specimen types except lung and spleen. Our results reveal the predominance of GI and concomitant detection of both genogroups in wild deer and cattle. In concordance with other studies, the detected GI sequences displayed high genetic diversity, however in contrast, GII sequences clustered into three distinct clades. Detection of both genogroups in the upper respiratory tract (trachea and nasal swab) of deer in the present study gives more evidence about the respiratory tract tropism of PBV. Although much remains unknown about the epidemiology and tropism of PBVs, our study suggests a wide distribution of these viruses in southeastern Australia.
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Casals P, Fernández J, Batet A, Taüll M, Ruiz-Olmo J. Disentangling landscape features and vegetation composition effects on wild ungulate use of hay meadows in high Pyrenees. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-021-01471-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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A historical review of Babesia spp. associated with deer in Europe: Babesia divergens/Babesia divergens-like, Babesia capreoli, Babesia venatorum, Babesia cf. odocoilei. Vet Parasitol 2021; 294:109433. [PMID: 33930692 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This review is intended to provide an overview of the occurrence and diversity of Babesia spp. in European deer. Babesiosis is an emerging vector-borne disease with negative implications on animal and public health. Cervidae are important hosts for Ixodidae ticks, playing a critical role in the epidemiology of the parasite. Deer are susceptible to different Babesia spp., some of them with zoonotic potential. The infection is usually asymptomatic with high prevalence rates, although some fatal cases due to B. capreoli and B. venatorum have been reported. In Europe, 3 main Babesia spp. have been described in deer: Babesia divergens/B. divergens-like, B. capreoli and B. venatorum. Additionally, close relatives of B. odocoilei, the Babesia species of the American white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), have been isolated in several European countries. The occurrence of B. divergens/B. divergens-like generated concerns about the role of cervidae in the life cycle of the parasite, and the potential threat for public health. Few human cases have been attributed to B. venatorum so far, including hunters. Although this species is strictly related to the presence of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), it has been occasionally reported in moose (Alces alces) and captive reindeer (Rangifer tarandus). Over recent years, vector-borne diseases received increased attention from International Organizations. However, technical difficulties persist, affecting surveillance efficiency. Given the veterinary and zoonotic importance of babesiosis, the author advocates the need for an effective monitoring at wildlife-domestic animals-humans interface and the implementation of management plans to reduce the risk of Babesia spp. infection for both humans and domestic animals.
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16
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Lamb J, Doyle E, Barwick J, Chambers M, Kahn L. Prevalence and pathology of liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) in fallow deer (Dama dama). Vet Parasitol 2021; 293:109427. [PMID: 33872935 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109427] [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: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A survey conducted on fallow deer (n = 79) in northern New South Wales Australia, aimed to ascertain the prevalence and gross pathology of liver fluke. In total, three deer populations were assessed (1 farmed and 2 wild) across 2 sites (site A and B) by conducting total fluke counts in the liver and fluke egg counts in faecal samples. At site A, 16 of 19 farmed deer (84.2 %) and 9 of 20 wild deer (45 %) had active or resolved infections. At site B, 16 of 40 wild deer (40 %) had active or resolved infections. Deer with active infections had low fluke burdens (1-11 fluke) which were in the adult development stage, shedding eggs with faeces (0-121.7 eggs per gram). Liver pathology score did not exceed 3.5 out of 5 with gross pathomorphological lesions predominately confined to the peripheral regions of the left lobe. Farmed deer, confined within a fluky habitat, attained the highest group mean pathology score, with dense fibrosis and concomitant atrophy of the left lobe (site A: farmed - 1.8, wild- 0.6; site B: wild - 0.3). Well-defined fibrotic capsules captured and restricted fluke migration beyond the peripheral region of the left lobe of the liver. The presence of live and dead fluke within the fibrotic capsules confirms the inherent ability of fallow deer to resolve infections. This survey has highlighted the susceptibility of fallow deer to liver fluke within an endemic region. Recurrent exposure, as seen in the farmed deer confined within a fluky habitat, appears to strengthen tissue response in terms of gross pathology and may impede the release of fluke eggs from the liver. Low fluke burdens and limited lesions suggest fallow deer have a strong level of resistance to liver fluke. Nevertheless, within this endemic region, fallow deer are widespread and clearly facilitating the liver fluke life cycle. Further research is warranted to ascertain the impact of fallow deer on disease transmission in livestock production when cohabiting the grazing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Lamb
- University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia.
| | - Emma Doyle
- University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Jamie Barwick
- University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia; Precision Agricultural Research Group, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Michael Chambers
- Invetus Pty Ltd, Locked Bag 6865, West Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia
| | - Lewis Kahn
- University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
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Davies C, Wright W, Wedrowicz F, Pacioni C, Hogan FE. Delineating genetic management units of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in south-eastern Australia, using opportunistic tissue sampling and targeted scat collection. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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18
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Grattarola F, Rodríguez-Tricot L. Mammals of Paso Centurión, an area with relicts of Atlantic Forest in Uruguay. NEOTROPICAL BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/neotropical.15.e53062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Paso Centurión is one of the most diverse areas of Uruguay. It is legally protected at local and national level, however, there are different interests competing for its land use and management. With the aim to document the biodiversity of the area together with the local people, the NGO JULANA has been conducting a participatory monitoring process with camera traps since 2013. Here, we present a list of 23 medium and large-size mammal species documented in the area and a standardised dataset of occurrence records. Top observations include the last Chrysocyon brachyurus seen in Uruguay, the first record of Herpailurus yagouaroundi in the country and the second report of Leopardus munoai in the area. We also highlight the frequent observation of numerous rare species such as Tamandua tetradactyla, Leopardus wiedii, Cabassous tatouay, Coendou spinosus and Cuniculus paca. Although the cameras were located within only a few metres of the houses of the local people, some of the rarest and most elusive species in the country were reported. This suggests a possible coexistence between people – their socio-economic practices – and nature in the area. Our work underlines the importance of the recent inclusion of Paso Centurión and Sierra de Ríos to the National System of Protected Areas under the proposed category of ‘Protected Landscape’. Collectively, in a context of global change and lack of biodiversity data on species distribution, we emphasise the value of these records for the knowledge of mammals in Uruguay and the need to extend and continue monitoring this area.
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Huaman JL, Pacioni C, Forsyth DM, Pople A, Hampton JO, Carvalho TG, Helbig KJ. Serosurveillance and Molecular Investigation of Wild Deer in Australia Reveals Seroprevalence of Pestivirus Infection. Viruses 2020; 12:v12070752. [PMID: 32668730 PMCID: PMC7412320 DOI: 10.3390/v12070752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since deer were introduced into Australia in the mid-1800s, their wild populations have increased in size and distribution, posing a potential risk to the livestock industry, through their role in pathogen transmission cycles. In comparison to livestock, there are limited data on viral infections in all wildlife, including deer. The aim of this study was to assess blood samples from wild Australian deer for serological evidence of exposure to relevant viral livestock diseases. Blood samples collected across eastern Australia were tested by ELISA to detect antigens and antibodies against Pestivirus and antibodies against bovine herpesvirus 1. A subset of samples was also assessed by RT-PCR for Pestivirus, Simbu serogroup, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus and bovine ephemeral fever virus. Our findings demonstrated a very low seroprevalence (3%) for ruminant Pestivirus, and none of the other viruses tested were detected. These results suggest that wild deer may currently be an incidental spill-over host (rather than a reservoir host) for Pestivirus. However, deer could be a future source of viral infections for domestic animals in Australia. Further investigations are needed to monitor pathogen activity and quantify possible future infectious disease impacts of wild deer on the Australian livestock industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L. Huaman
- Department of Physiology, Molecular Virology Laboratory, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia;
- Department of Physiology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia;
| | - Carlo Pacioni
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg 3084, Australia;
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia;
| | - David M. Forsyth
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, Orange 2800, Australia;
| | - Anthony Pople
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Invasive Plants & Animals Research, Biosecurity Queensland, Ecosciences Precinct, Brisbane 4102, Australia;
| | - Jordan O. Hampton
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia;
- Ecotone Wildlife, P.O. Box 76, Inverloch, VIC 3996, Australia
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- Department of Physiology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia;
| | - Karla J. Helbig
- Department of Physiology, Molecular Virology Laboratory, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3086, Australia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-9479-6650
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Rahman DA, Condro AA, Rianti P, Masy’ud B, Aulagnier S, Semiadi G. Geographical analysis of the Javan deer distribution in Indonesia and priorities for landscape conservation. J Nat Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2020.125795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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21
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Davies C, Wright W, Wedrowicz F, Hogan FE. A DNA toolbox for non-invasive genetic studies of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor). AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am18032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Invasive sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) are having significant detrimental impacts on natural environments in south-eastern Australia. Little, however, is known about their ecology, limiting evidence-based management strategies directed at reducing deer impacts. Genetic data, generated from DNA isolated from deer scats, can be used to fill ecological knowledge gaps. This study outlines a non-invasive genetic sampling strategy by which good-quality DNA from a single deer scat can be used to determine (1) species of origin, (2) sex and (3) a unique DNA profile. DNA from deer tissue and sambar deer scat samples were used to develop and optimise molecular methods to collect reliable genetic information. A DNA toolbox is presented that describes how to find, collect and store scat samples, isolate DNA and use molecular markers to generate informative genetic data. Generating genetic data using this approach will support studies aimed at acquiring ecological knowledge about sambar deer. Such knowledge will be critical for developing evidence-based recommendations to improve on-ground management decisions for sambar deer.
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Davies C, Wright W, Hogan FE, Davies H. Detectability and activity patterns of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in Baw Baw National Park, Victoria. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am19029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduced sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) are increasing in abundance and distribution across much of south-eastern Australia and causing damage to native ecosystems. However, the current paucity of knowledge surrounding many aspects of sambar deer ecology is limiting our capacity to make informed management decisions, and properly gauge the extent of deer impacts. Here we investigate correlates of sambar deer detectability and describe activity patterns of sambar deer in Baw Baw National Park (BBNP) to inform control operations. Camera traps were deployed in BBNP between October and December 2016. We used an occupancy modelling framework to investigate sambar deer detectability and camera trap record time stamps to determine sambar deer activity patterns. Sambar deer were found to be significantly more detectable near roads and in areas of sparse tree density and displayed strong crepuscular activity patterns. Control operations carried out along roads at dawn and dusk could be effective, at least in the short term. Likewise, aerial culling could be an effective control option for sambar deer populations in BBNP. This study highlights the utility of camera trap data to inform the application of control operations for cryptic invasive species.
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Forsyth DM, Pople A, Woodford L, Brennan M, Amos M, Moloney PD, Fanson B, Story G. Landscape-scale effects of homesteads, water, and dingoes on invading chital deer in Australia’s dry tropics. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Identifying landscape features and processes that facilitate the persistence of populations is particularly important for invasive mammal species, because it can focus management interventions on relatively small areas. We used camera traps to test predictions concerning the relative abundance of invading chital deer (Axis axis) on seven cattle ranches in northern Australia: that abundance of chital deer would be highest near permanent water and near homesteads, and that dingoes (Canis dingo) reduce abundance of chital deer. Distance from the nearest homestead determined deer abundance (as indexed by images per camera-day), with negligible abundance > 4 km from homesteads. In contrast, distance from homestead did not predict abundance of feral pigs (Sus scrofa), macropods, or dingoes. Abundance of chital deer also declined with increasing distance from water, as did feral pig abundance. There was no relationship between either macropod or dingo abundance and distance to water. The abundance of chital deer was unaffected by dingo abundance, but 75–100% of dingo scats collected within 1 km of homesteads contained chital deer. The high abundances of chital deer near homesteads are likely due to increased food quality or quantity, or protection from dingoes, but these hypotheses require further testing. We conclude that homesteads and permanent water are important determinants of the distribution and abundance of invasive chital deer in northern Australia (i.e., they are “invasion hubs” for this species). Our results suggest that, during the dry season, managers should survey for and attempt to control chital deer within 4 km of homesteads and within 3 km of water.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Pople
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Luke Woodford
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Brennan
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matt Amos
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul D Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Fanson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Georgeanna Story
- Scats About Ecological, Majors Creek, New South Wales, Australia
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