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Pathak A, Marquez M, Stothard P, Chukwujindu C, Su JQ, Zhou Y, Zhou XY, Jagoe CH, Chauhan A. A seasonal study on the microbiomes of Diploid vs. Triploid eastern oysters and their denitrification potential. iScience 2024; 27:110193. [PMID: 38984199 PMCID: PMC11231605 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110193] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Oyster reefs are hotspots of denitrification mediated removal of dissolved nitrogen (N), however, information on their denitrifier microbiota is scarce. Furthermore, in oyster aquaculture, triploids are often preferred over diploids, yet again, microbiome differences between oyster ploidies are unknown. To address these knowledge gaps, farmed diploid and triploid oysters were collected over an annual growth cycle and analyzed using shotgun metagenomics and quantitative microbial elemental cycling (QMEC) techniques. Regardless of ploidy, Psychrobacter genus was abundant, with positive correlations found for genes of central metabolism, DNA metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism. MAGs (metagenome-assembled genomes) yielded multiple Psychrobacter genomes harboring norB, narH, narI, and nirK denitrification genes, indicating their functional relevance within the eastern oysters. QMEC analysis indicated the predominance of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling genes, with no discernable patterns between ploidies. Among the N-cycling genes, the nosZII clade was overrepresented, suggesting its role in the eastern oyster's N removal processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Pathak
- School of the Environment, Florida A&M University, 1515 S. Martin Luther King Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Mario Marquez
- Texas Sea Grant College Program, 4115 TAMU Eller O&M 306, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Paul Stothard
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, General Services Bldg, Edmonton, AB 2-31 T6G 2H1, Canada
| | - Christian Chukwujindu
- Material & Energy Technology Department, Projects Development Institute, Emene Industrial Layout, Enugu-Nigeria 400104
| | - Jian-Qiang Su
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yanyan Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Charles H. Jagoe
- School of the Environment, Florida A&M University, 1515 S. Martin Luther King Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Ashvini Chauhan
- School of the Environment, Florida A&M University, 1515 S. Martin Luther King Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
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2
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Niu X, Lin L, Zhang T, An X, Li Y, Yu Y, Hong M, Shi H, Ding L. Comparison of the intestinal flora of wild and artificial breeding green turtles ( Chelonia mydas). Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1412015. [PMID: 38873159 PMCID: PMC11170157 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1412015] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Gut microbes are pivotal reference indicators for assessing the health status of animals. Before introducing artificially bred species into the wild, examining their gut microbe composition is crucial to help mitigate potential threats posed to wild populations. However, gut microbiological trait similarities between wild and artificially bred green turtles remain unexplored. Therefore, this study compared the gut microbiological characteristics of wild and artificially bred green turtles (Chelonia mydas) through high-throughput Illumina sequencing technology. The α-diversity of intestinal bacteria in wild green turtles, as determined by Shannon and Chao indices, significantly surpasses that of artificial breeding green turtles (p < 0.01). However, no significant differences were detected in the fungal α-diversity between wild and artificially bred green turtles. Meanwhile, the β-diversity analysis revealed significant differences between wild and artificially bred green turtles in bacterial and fungal compositions. The community of gut bacteria in artificially bred green turtles had a significantly higher abundance of Fusobacteriota including those belonging to the Paracoccus, Cetobacterium, and Fusobacterium genera than that of the wild green turtle. In contrast, the abundance of bacteria belonging to the phylum Actinobacteriota and genus Nautella significantly decreased. Regarding the fungal community, artificially bred green turtles had a significantly higher abundance of Fusarium, Sterigmatomyces, and Acremonium and a lower abundance of Candida and Rhodotorula than the wild green turtle. The PICRUSt2 analyses demonstrated significant differences in the functions of the gut bacterial flora between groups, particularly in carbohydrate and energy metabolism. Fungal functional guild analysis further revealed that the functions of the intestinal fungal flora of wild and artificially bred green turtles differed significantly in terms of animal pathogens-endophytes-lichen parasites-plant pathogens-soil saprotrophs-wood saprotrophs. BugBase analysis revealed significant potential pathogenicity and stress tolerance variations between wild and artificially bred green turtles. Collectively, this study elucidates the distinctive characteristics of gut microbiota in wild and artificially bred green turtles while evaluating their health status. These findings offer valuable scientific insights for releasing artificially bred green turtles and other artificially bred wildlife into natural habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Niu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Liu Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Xiaoyu An
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Yupei Li
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha, China
| | - Yangfei Yu
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha, China
| | - Meiling Hong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Haitao Shi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
| | - Li Ding
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha, China
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Prekrasna-Kviatkovska Y, Parnikoza I, Yerkhova A, Stelmakh O, Pavlovska M, Dzyndra M, Yarovyi O, Dykyi E. From acidophilic to ornithogenic: microbial community dynamics in moss banks altered by gentoo penguins. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1362975. [PMID: 38525081 PMCID: PMC10959021 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1362975] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The study explores the indirect impact of climate change driven by gentoo's penguin colonization pressure on the microbial communities of moss banks formed by Tall moss turf subformation in central maritime Antarctica. Methods Microbial communities and chemical composition of the differently affected moss banks (Unaffected, Impacted and Desolated) located on Galindez Island and Сape Tuxen on the mainland of Kyiv Peninsula were analyzed. Results The native microbiota of the moss banks' peat was analyzed for the first time, revealing a predominant presence of Acidobacteria (32.2 ± 14.4%), followed by Actinobacteria (15.1 ± 4.0%) and Alphaproteobacteria (9.7 ± 4.1%). Penguin colonization and subsequent desolation of moss banks resulted in an increase in peat pH (from 4.7 ± 0.05 to 7.2 ± 0.6) and elevated concentrations of soluble nitrogen (from 1.8 ± 0.4 to 46.9 ± 2.1 DIN, mg/kg) and soluble phosphorus compounds (from 3.6 ± 2.6 to 20.0 ± 1.8 DIP, mg/kg). The contrasting composition of peat and penguin feces led to the elimination of the initial peat microbiota, with an increase in Betaproteobacteria (from 1.3 ± 0.8% to 30.5 ± 23%) and Bacteroidota (from 5.5 ± 3.7% to 19.0 ± 3.7%) proportional to the intensity of penguins' impact, accompanied by a decrease in community diversity. Microbial taxa associated with birds' guts, such as Gottschalkia and Tissierella, emerged in Impacted and Desolated moss banks, along with bacteria likely benefiting from eutrophication. The changes in the functional capacity of the penguin-affected peat microbial communities were also detected. The nitrogen-cycling genes that regulate the conversion of urea into ammonia, nitrite oxide, and nitrate oxide (ureC, amoA, nirS, nosZ, nxrB) had elevated copy numbers in the affected peat. Desolated peat samples exhibit the highest nitrogen-cycle gene numbers, significantly differing from Unaffected peat (p < 0.05). Discussion The expansion of gentoo penguins induced by climate change led to the replacement of acidophilic microbiomes associated with moss banks, shaping a new microbial community influenced by penguin guano's chemical and microbial composition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivan Parnikoza
- Biology and Ecology Department, State Institution National Antarctic Scientific Center, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Department of Cell Population Genetics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Faculty of Natural Science, National University of “Kyiv-Mohyla Academy”, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anna Yerkhova
- Biomedical Institute, Open International University of Human Development Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Olesia Stelmakh
- Faculty of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Kyiv Academic University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Mariia Pavlovska
- Biology and Ecology Department, State Institution National Antarctic Scientific Center, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Faculty of Plant Protection, Biotechnology and Ecology, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Marta Dzyndra
- Biology and Ecology Department, State Institution National Antarctic Scientific Center, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Oleksandr Yarovyi
- Biology and Ecology Department, State Institution National Antarctic Scientific Center, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Evgen Dykyi
- Biology and Ecology Department, State Institution National Antarctic Scientific Center, Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ochoa-Sánchez M, Acuña Gomez EP, Moreno L, Moraga CA, Gaete K, Eguiarte LE, Souza V. Body site microbiota of Magellanic and king penguins inhabiting the Strait of Magellan follow species-specific patterns. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16290. [PMID: 37933257 PMCID: PMC10625763 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal hosts live in continuous interaction with bacterial partners, yet we still lack a clear understanding of the ecological drivers of animal-associated bacteria, particularly in seabirds. Here, we investigated the effect of body site in the structure and diversity of bacterial communities of two seabirds in the Strait of Magellan: the Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) and the king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus). We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to profile bacterial communities associated with body sites (chest, back, foot) of both penguins and the nest soil of Magellanic penguin. Taxonomic composition showed that Moraxellaceae family (specifically Psychrobacter) had the highest relative abundance across body sites in both penguin species, whereas Micrococacceae had the highest relative abundance in nest soil. We were able to detect a bacterial core among 90% of all samples, which consisted of Clostridium sensu stricto and Micrococcacea taxa. Further, the king penguin had its own bacterial core across its body sites, where Psychrobacter and Corynebacterium were the most prevalent taxa. Microbial alpha diversity across penguin body sites was similar in most comparisons, yet we found subtle differences between foot and chest body sites of king penguins. Body site microbiota composition differed across king penguin body sites, whereas it remained similar across Magellanic penguin body sites. Interestingly, all Magellanic penguin body site microbiota composition differed from nest soil microbiota. Finally, bacterial abundance in penguin body sites fit well under a neutral community model, particularly in the king penguin, highlighting the role of stochastic process and ecological drift in microbiota assembly of penguin body sites. Our results represent the first report of body site bacterial communities in seabirds specialized in subaquatic foraging. Thus, we believe it represents useful baseline information that could serve for long-term comparisons that use marine host microbiota to survey ocean health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ochoa-Sánchez
- Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
- Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario de Fuego, Patagonia y Antártica (CEQUA), Punta Arenas, Chile
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Lucila Moreno
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Claudio A. Moraga
- Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario de Fuego, Patagonia y Antártica (CEQUA), Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Katherine Gaete
- Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario de Fuego, Patagonia y Antártica (CEQUA), Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Luis E. Eguiarte
- Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Valeria Souza
- Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
- Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario de Fuego, Patagonia y Antártica (CEQUA), Punta Arenas, Chile
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5
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Olmstead ARB, Mathieson OL, McLellan WA, Pabst DA, Keenan TF, Goldstein T, Erwin PM. Gut bacterial communities in Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) throughout a disease-driven (Morbillivirus) unusual mortality event. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2023; 99:fiad097. [PMID: 37591660 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiad097] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiomes are important determinants of animal health. In sentinel marine mammals where animal and ocean health are connected, microbiome impacts can scale to ecosystem-level importance. Mass mortality events affect cetacean populations worldwide, yet little is known about the contributory role of their gut bacterial communities to disease susceptibility and progression. Here, we characterized bacterial communities from fecal samples of common bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, across an unusual mortality event (UME) caused by dolphin Morbillivirus (DMV). 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed similar diversity and structure of bacterial communities in individuals stranding before, during, and after the 2013-2015 Mid-Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin UME and these trends held in a subset of dolphins tested by PCR for DMV infection. Fine-scale shifts related to the UME were not common (10 of 968 bacterial taxa) though potential biomarkers for health monitoring were identified within the complex bacterial communities. Accordingly, acute DMV infection was not associated with a distinct gut bacterial community signature in T. truncatus. However, temporal stratification of DMV-positive dolphins did reveal changes in bacterial community composition between early and late outbreak periods, suggesting that gut community disruptions may be amplified by the indirect effects of accumulating health burdens associated with chronic morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa R B Olmstead
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
| | - Olivia L Mathieson
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
| | - William A McLellan
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
| | - D Ann Pabst
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
| | - Tiffany F Keenan
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
| | - Tracey Goldstein
- Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, United States
| | - Patrick M Erwin
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
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Pirotta E, Schick RS, Hamilton PK, Harris CM, Hewitt J, Knowlton AR, Kraus SD, Meyer‐Gutbrod E, Moore MJ, Pettis HM, Photopoulou T, Rolland RM, Tyack PL, Thomas L. Estimating the effects of stressors on the health, survival and reproduction of a critically endangered, long‐lived species. OIKOS 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.09801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pirotta
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Robert S. Schick
- Marine Geospatial Ecology Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke Univ. Durham NC USA
| | - Philip K. Hamilton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Catriona M. Harris
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Joshua Hewitt
- Dept of Statistical Science, Duke Univ. Durham NC USA
| | - Amy R. Knowlton
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Scott D. Kraus
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Erin Meyer‐Gutbrod
- School of Earth, Ocean and Environment, Univ. of South Carolina Columbia SC USA
| | | | - Heather M. Pettis
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium Boston MA USA
| | - Theoni Photopoulou
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | | | - Peter L. Tyack
- School of Biology, Scottish Oceans Inst., Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
| | - Len Thomas
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, Univ. of St Andrews St Andrews UK
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7
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Remote and non-invasive quantification of ‘Tattoo Skin Disease-Like’ dermatopathy in endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales using drone photography. Mamm Biol 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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8
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Zhang X, Ying C, Jiang M, Lin D, You L, Yin D, Zhang J, Liu K, Xu P. The bacteria of Yangtze finless porpoise ( Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) are site-specific and distinct from freshwater environment. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1006251. [PMID: 36605503 PMCID: PMC9808046 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1006251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria play an essential role in the health of marine mammals, and the bacteria of marine mammals are widely concerned, but less is known about freshwater mammals. In this study, we investigated the bacteria of various body sites of Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) and analyzed their association with freshwater environmental bacteria. The bacterial community and function of Yangtze finless porpoise showed apparent site-specificity. Various body sites have distinct differences in bacteria and have their dominant bacteria. Romboutsia, Plesiomonas, Actinobacillus, Candidatus Arthromitus dominated in the intestine (fecal and rectal samples). Fusobacterium, Streptococcus, and Acinetobacter dominated in the oral. The dominant genera in the blowhole include Suttonella, Psychrobacter, and two uncultured genera. Psychrobacter, Flavobacterium, and Acinetobacter were dominant in the skin. The alpha diversity of intestinal (fecal and rectal) bacteria was the lowest, while that of skin was the highest. The oral and skin bacteria of Yangtze finless porpoise significantly differed between the natural and semi-natural conditions, but no sex difference was observed. A clear boundary was found between the animal and the freshwater environmental bacteria. Even the skin bacteria, which are more affected by the environment, are significantly different from the environmental bacteria and harbor indigenous bacteria. Our results provide a comprehensive preliminary exploration of the bacteria of Yangtze finless porpoise and its association with bacteria in the freshwater environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xizhao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Congping Ying
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Danqing Lin
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Lei You
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Denghua Yin
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Jialu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China,Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, China,*Correspondence: Kai Liu,
| | - Pao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuxi, China,Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, China,Pao Xu,
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9
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Yang Z, Yu X, Dedman S, Rosso M, Zhu J, Yang J, Xia Y, Tian Y, Zhang G, Wang J. UAV remote sensing applications in marine monitoring: Knowledge visualization and review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:155939. [PMID: 35577092 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
With the booming development of information technology and the growing demand for remote sensing data, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing technology has emerged. In recent years, UAV remote sensing technology has developed rapidly and has been widely used in the fields of military defense, agricultural monitoring, surveying and mapping management, and disaster and emergency response and management. Currently, increasingly serious marine biological and environmental problems are raising the need for effective and timely monitoring. Compared with traditional marine monitoring technologies, UAV remote sensing is becoming an important means for marine monitoring thanks to its flexibility, efficiency and low cost, while still producing systematic data with high spatial and temporal resolutions. This study visualizes the knowledge domain of the application and research advances of UAV remote sensing in marine monitoring by analyzing 1130 articles (from 1993 to early 2022) using a bibliometric approach and provides a review of the application of UAVs in marine management mapping, marine disaster and environmental monitoring, and marine wildlife monitoring. It aims to promote the extensive application of UAV remote sensing in the field of marine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyao Yang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xueying Yu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Simon Dedman
- Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove Pacific Grove, 93950, California, USA
| | | | - Jingmin Zhu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Yuxiang Xia
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Yichao Tian
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Guangping Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China
| | - Jingzhen Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster in the Beibu Gulf, Beibu Gulf University, Qinzhou 535011, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove Pacific Grove, 93950, California, USA; CIMA Research Foundation, Savona 17100, Italy.
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10
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Beduk T, Beduk D, Hasan MR, Guler Celik E, Kosel J, Narang J, Salama KN, Timur S. Smartphone-Based Multiplexed Biosensing Tools for Health Monitoring. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:583. [PMID: 36004979 PMCID: PMC9406027 DOI: 10.3390/bios12080583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Many emerging technologies have the potential to improve health care by providing more personalized approaches or early diagnostic methods. In this review, we cover smartphone-based multiplexed sensors as affordable and portable sensing platforms for point-of-care devices. Multiplexing has been gaining attention recently for clinical diagnosis considering certain diseases require analysis of complex biological networks instead of single-marker analysis. Smartphones offer tremendous possibilities for on-site detection analysis due to their portability, high accessibility, fast sample processing, and robust imaging capabilities. Straightforward digital analysis and convenient user interfaces support networked health care systems and individualized health monitoring. Detailed biomarker profiling provides fast and accurate analysis for disease diagnosis for limited sample volume collection. Here, multiplexed smartphone-based assays with optical and electrochemical components are covered. Possible wireless or wired communication actuators and portable and wearable sensing integration for various sensing applications are discussed. The crucial features and the weaknesses of these devices are critically evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tutku Beduk
- Silicon Austria Labs GmbH: Sensor Systems, 9524 Villach, Austria;
| | - Duygu Beduk
- Central Research Test and Analysis Laboratory Application and Research Center, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey;
| | - Mohd Rahil Hasan
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India; (M.R.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Emine Guler Celik
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey;
| | - Jurgen Kosel
- Silicon Austria Labs GmbH: Sensor Systems, 9524 Villach, Austria;
| | - Jagriti Narang
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India; (M.R.H.); (J.N.)
| | - Khaled Nabil Salama
- Sensors Lab, Advanced Membranes and Porous Materials Center, Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Suna Timur
- Central Research Test and Analysis Laboratory Application and Research Center, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey;
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
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11
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Schilling AK, Mazzamuto MV, Romeo C. A Review of Non-Invasive Sampling in Wildlife Disease and Health Research: What's New? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1719. [PMID: 35804619 PMCID: PMC9265025 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, wildlife diseases and the health status of animal populations have gained increasing attention from the scientific community as part of a One Health framework. Furthermore, the need for non-invasive sampling methods with a minimal impact on wildlife has become paramount in complying with modern ethical standards and regulations, and to collect high-quality and unbiased data. We analysed the publication trends on non-invasive sampling in wildlife health and disease research and offer a comprehensive review on the different samples that can be collected non-invasively. We retrieved 272 articles spanning from 1998 to 2021, with a rapid increase in number from 2010. Thirty-nine percent of the papers were focussed on diseases, 58% on other health-related topics, and 3% on both. Stress and other physiological parameters were the most addressed research topics, followed by viruses, helminths, and bacterial infections. Terrestrial mammals accounted for 75% of all publications, and faeces were the most widely used sample. Our review of the sampling materials and collection methods highlights that, although the use of some types of samples for specific applications is now consolidated, others are perhaps still underutilised and new technologies may offer future opportunities for an even wider use of non-invasively collected samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Katarina Schilling
- Previously Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
| | - Maria Vittoria Mazzamuto
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, 1000 E. University Ave., Laramie, WY 82072, USA;
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Claudia Romeo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy
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12
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Ramos EA, Landeo-Yauri S, Castelblanco-Martínez N, Arreola MR, Quade AH, Rieucau G. Drone-based photogrammetry assessments of body size and body condition of Antillean manatees. Mamm Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-022-00228-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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13
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Rhodes LD, Emmons CK, Wisswaesser G, Wells AH, Hanson MB. Bacterial microbiomes from mucus and breath of southern resident killer whales ( Orcinus orca). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac014. [PMID: 35492424 PMCID: PMC9041426 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Opportunities to assess odontocete health are restricted due to their limited time at the surface, relatively quick movements and large geographic ranges. For endangered populations such as the southern resident killer whales (SKRWs) of the northeast Pacific Ocean, taking advantage of non-invasive samples such as expelled mucus and exhaled breath is appealing. Over the past 12 years, such samples were collected, providing a chance to analyse and assess their bacterial microbiomes using amplicon sequencing. Based on operational taxonomic units, microbiome communities from SRKW and transient killer whales showed little overlap between mucus, breath and seawater from SRKW habitats and six bacterial phyla were prominent in expelled mucus but not in seawater. Mollicutes and Fusobacteria were common and abundant in mucus, but not in breath or seawater, suggesting these bacterial classes may be normal constituents of the SRKW microbiome. Out of 134 bacterial families detected, 24 were unique to breath and mucus, including higher abundances of Burkholderiaceae, Moraxellaceae and Chitinophagaceae. Although there were multiple bacterial genera in breath or mucus that include pathogenic species (e.g. Campylobacter, Hemophilus, Treponema), the presence of these bacteria is not necessarily evidence of disease or infection. Future emphasis on genotyping mucus samples to the individual animal will allow further assessment in the context of that animal's history, including body condition index and prior contaminants burden. This study is the first to examine expelled mucus from cetaceans for microbiomes and demonstrates the value of analysing these types of non-invasive samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda D Rhodes
- Corresponding author: Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA.
| | - Candice K Emmons
- Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - GabrielS Wisswaesser
- Lynker Technologies, under contract to Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - Abigail H Wells
- Lynker Technologies, under contract to Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - M Bradley Hanson
- Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
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14
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Atkinson S, Rogan A, Baker CS, Dagdag R, Redlinger M, Polinski J, Urban J, Sremba A, Branson M, Mashburn K, Pallin L, Klink A, Steel D, Bortz E, Kerr I. Genetic, Endocrine, and Microbiological Assessments of Blue, Humpback and Killer Whale Health using Unoccupied Aerial Systems. WILDLIFE SOC B 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.1240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Atkinson
- University of Alaska Fairbanks, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences 17101 Pt Lena Loop Rd. Juneau AK 99801 USA
| | | | - C. Scott Baker
- Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Dr. Newport OR 97365 USA
| | - Ralf Dagdag
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Department of Biological Sciences 3211 Providence Dr. Anchorage AK 99508 USA
| | - Matthew Redlinger
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Department of Biological Sciences 3211 Providence Dr. Anchorage AK 99508 USA
| | - Jennifer Polinski
- Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute, 417 Main St Gloucester MA 01930 USA
| | - Jorge Urban
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, La Paz Baja California Sur México
| | - Angie Sremba
- Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Dr. Newport OR 97365 USA
| | - Maile Branson
- University of Alaska Fairbanks, Department of Biology and Wildlife 2090 Koyukuk Dr. Fairbanks AK 99775 USA
| | - Kendall Mashburn
- University of Alaska Fairbanks, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences 17101 Pt Lena Loop Rd. Juneau AK 99801 USA
| | - Logan Pallin
- Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Dr. Newport OR 97365 USA
| | - Amy Klink
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Department of Biological Sciences 3211 Providence Dr. Anchorage AK 99508 USA
| | - Debbie Steel
- Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Dr. Newport OR 97365 USA
| | - Eric Bortz
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Department of Biological Sciences 3211 Providence Dr. Anchorage AK 99508 USA
| | - Iain Kerr
- Ocean Alliance Gloucester MA 01930 USA
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15
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Dalle Luche G, Boggs ASP, Kucklick JR, Hawker DW, Wisse JH, Bengtson Nash S. Steroid hormone profiles and body conditions of migrating male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 313:113888. [PMID: 34425085 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Simultaneous analysis of multiple steroid hormones from remotely obtained blubber biopsies has the potential to concurrently provide information regarding stress and reproductive status from free-swimming cetaceans, while also investigating correlations between hormone concentrations and other health biomarkers. In this study we measured blubber concentration profiles of eight reproductive and adrenal steroid hormones (17α-hydroxy-progesterone, testosterone, androstenedione, progesterone, cortisol, 11-deoxy-corticosterone, oestrone, and oestradiol) together with body condition, as determined by the inverse Adipocyte Index, of 101 male humpback whales. Whales were sampled randomly at two time points, while migrating to and from their northeast Australian breeding grounds, allowing for intra- and inter-seasonal profile analysis. Testosterone, progesterone and cortisol together with androstenedione 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, and oestrone concentrations (the latter quantified for the first time in live biopsied male humpback whales) decreased between the northward and southward migrations. Decreasing testosterone levels during the height of humpback whale conceptions suggests asynchronicity between blubber testosterone levels and the expected peak of male fertility. Statistically significant relationships between levels of certain steroid analytes were observed and appeared to change between the early and late breeding seasons. During the northward migration, testosterone, progesterone, androstenedione, oestrone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone levels were positively correlated. Cortisol concentrations correlated positively with those of testosterone during the northward migration, but negatively during the southward migration. Androstenedione and testosterone were positively correlated with adiposity during the late breeding season. These hormone-hormone and hormone-adiposity correlations may be reflective of the activation of certain steroid hormone synthesis pathways, or alternatively, of concomitant physiological stimuli. As steroid hormones work in concert, information on multiple steroid hormones is needed to interpret endocrinological status and understand the relationships between these compounds and ancillary health markers. This study provides steroid hormone profiles of wild male humpback whales, as well as the first insight into seasonal male endocrinology as a function of adiposity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Dalle Luche
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
| | - Ashley S P Boggs
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - John R Kucklick
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC 29412, USA
| | - Darryl W Hawker
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Jillian H Wisse
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Susan Bengtson Nash
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
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16
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Filek K, Trotta A, Gračan R, Di Bello A, Corrente M, Bosak S. Characterization of oral and cloacal microbial communities of wild and rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Anim Microbiome 2021; 3:59. [PMID: 34479653 PMCID: PMC8417999 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-021-00120-5] [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: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microbial communities of wild animals are being increasingly investigated to provide information about the hosts’ biology and promote conservation. Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) are a keystone species in marine ecosystems and are considered vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, which led to growing efforts in sea turtle conservation by rescue centers around the world. Understanding the microbial communities of sea turtles in the wild and how affected they are by captivity, is one of the stepping stones in improving the conservation efforts. Describing oral and cloacal microbiota of wild animals could shed light on the previously unknown aspects of sea turtle holobiont biology, ecology, and contribute to best practices for husbandry conditions. Results We describe the oral and cloacal microbiota of Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtles by 16S rRNA gene sequencing to compare the microbial communities of wild versus turtles in, or after, rehabilitation at the Adriatic Sea rescue centers and clinics. Our results show that the oral microbiota is more sensitive to environmental shifts than the cloacal microbiota, and that it does retain a portion of microbial taxa regardless of the shift from the wild and into rehabilitation. Additionally, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes dominated oral and cloacal microbiota, while Kiritimatiellaeota were abundant in cloacal samples. Unclassified reads were abundant in the aforementioned groups, which indicates high incidence of yet undiscovered bacteria of the marine reptile microbial communities. Conclusions We provide the first insights into the oral microbial communities of wild and rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles, and establish a framework for quick and non-invasive sampling of oral and cloacal microbial communities, useful for the expansion of the sample collection in wild loggerhead sea turtles. Finally, our investigation of effects of captivity on the gut-associated microbial community provides a baseline for studying the impact of husbandry conditions on turtles’ health and survival upon their return to the wild. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42523-021-00120-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Filek
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Adriana Trotta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Str. Prov. Per Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Romana Gračan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Antonio Di Bello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Str. Prov. Per Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Marialaura Corrente
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Str. Prov. Per Casamassima Km 3, 70010, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Sunčica Bosak
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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17
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Phelps CM, McMahon K, Bissett A, Bernasconi R, Steinberg PD, Thomas T, Marzinelli EM, Huggett MJ. The surface bacterial community of an Australian kelp shows cross-continental variation and relative stability within regions. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2021; 97:fiab089. [PMID: 34156064 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiab089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epiphytic microbial communities often have a close relationship with their eukaryotic host, assisting with defence, health, disease prevention and nutrient transfer. Shifts in the structure of microbial communities could therefore have negative effects on the individual host and indirectly impact the surrounding ecosystem, particularly for major habitat-forming hosts, such as kelps in temperate rocky shores. Thus, an understanding of the structure and dynamics of host-associated microbial communities is essential for monitoring and assessing ecosystem changes. Here, samples were taken from the ecologically important kelp, Ecklonia radiata, over a 17-month period, from six different sites in two distinct geographic regions (East and West coasts of Australia), separated by ∼3,300 kms, to understand variation in the kelp bacterial community and its potential environmental drivers. Differences were observed between kelp bacterial communities between the largely disconnected geographical regions. In contrast, within each region and over time the bacterial communities were considerably more stable, despite substantial seasonal changes in environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlie M Phelps
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Kathryn McMahon
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Andrew Bissett
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esp, Battery Point, Tas, 7004, Australia
| | - Rachele Bernasconi
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Peter D Steinberg
- Sydney Institute of Marine Science, 19 Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman, NSW, 2088, Australia
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Dr, Singapore 637551
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ezequiel M Marzinelli
- Sydney Institute of Marine Science, 19 Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman, NSW, 2088, Australia
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Dr, Singapore 637551
- The University of Sydney, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Coastal and Marine Ecosystems, City Rd, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Megan J Huggett
- Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research, School of Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, 10 Chittaway Rd, Ourimbah, NSW, 2258, Australia
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18
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Powell AL. North Atlantic right whales: 2017-present. THE CANADIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL = LA REVUE VETERINAIRE CANADIENNE 2021; 62:765-766. [PMID: 34219789 PMCID: PMC8218948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
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19
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McNally KL, Mott CR, Guertin JR, Bowen JL. Microbial communities of wild-captured Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) and green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas). ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Conservation efforts for endangered sea turtle species, such as Kemp’s ridley turtles Lepidochelys kempii and green turtles Chelonia mydas, may benefit from information on the microbial communities that contribute to host health. Previous studies examining host-associated microbiomes of these species have been limited in geographic region, life stage, and/or health. Here, we characterized the microbiome of the oral cavity and cloaca from wild-captured Kemp’s ridley and green turtles off the west coast of Florida, USA, by using Illumina sequencing to analyze the 16S rRNA gene. Microbial communities were distinct between body sites as well as between turtle species, suggesting that the turtle species is more important than the local environment in determining the microbiome of sea turtles. We identified the core microbiome for each species at each body site and determined that there were very few bacteria shared among the oral samples of both species, and no taxa co-occurred in the cloaca samples among both species. The core microbiome of the green turtle cloaca was primarily from the order Clostridiales, which plays an important role in digestion for other herbivorous species. Due to high prevalence of fibropapillomatosis in the green turtles (90%), we also investigated the correlation between the microbiome and the severity of fibropapillomatosis, and we identified changes in beta diversity associated with the total number of tumors. This study provides the first glimpse of the microbiome in 2 sympatric species of sea turtle and sheds an important species-specific light on the microbiome of these endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- KL McNally
- Animal Health Department, New England Aquarium, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, USA
- University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts 20125, USA
| | - CR Mott
- Inwater Research Group, Inc., Jensen Beach, Florida 34957, USA
| | - JR Guertin
- Inwater Research Group, Inc., Jensen Beach, Florida 34957, USA
| | - JL Bowen
- Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences, Marine Science Center, Northeastern University, Nahant, Massachusetts 01908, USA
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20
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Toro F, Alarcón J, Márquez S, Capella J, Bahamonde P, Esperón F, Moreno-Switt A, Castro-Nallar E. Composition and structure of the skin microbiota of rorquals off the Eastern South Pacific. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2021; 97:6179854. [PMID: 33749784 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing have enabled the large-scale interrogation of microbiota in the most diverse environments, including host-associated microbiota. This has led to the recognition that the skin microbiota of rorquals is specific and structurally different from that of the ocean. This study reveals the skin microbiome of 85 wild individuals along the Chilean coast belonging to Megaptera novaeangliae, Balaenoptera musculus and Balaenoptera physalus. Alpha diversity analysis revealed significant differences in richness and phylogenetic diversity, particularly among humpback whales from different locations and between blue and humpback whales. Beta diversity was partially explained by host and location but only accounting for up to 17% of microbiota variability (adjusted VPA). Overall, we found that microbiota composition was dominated by bacterial genera such as Cardiobacter, Moraxella, Tenacibaculum, Stenotrophomonas, Flavobacteria and Pseudomonas. We also found that no ASVs were associated with the three rorqual species. Up to four ASVs were specific of a location, indicating a great variability in the microbiota. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the composition and structure of the skin microbiota of whales off the coast of Chile, providing a foundational dataset to understand the microbiota's role in rorquals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Toro
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Avenida Republica 330, Santiago 8370186, Chile.,Doctorate in Conservation Medicine, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Departamento de Ecologia y Recursos Naturales, Avenida Republica 330, Santiago 8370186, Chile.,Panthalassa, Red de Estudios de Vertebrados Marinos de Chile Toesca 2002 P6, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Santo Tomás, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Avenida Limonares 190, Viña del Mar, Chile
| | - Jaime Alarcón
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Avenida Republica 330, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Sebastián Márquez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Avenida Republica 330, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Juan Capella
- Whalesound Ltda., Lautaro Navarro 1163, 2do piso. Punta Arenas, Chile.,Fundación Yubarta, Apartado Aéreo 33141, Cali, Colombia
| | - Paulina Bahamonde
- Melimoyu Ecosystem Research Institute, Avenida Kennedy 5682, Vitacura, Chile.,Universidad de Playa Ancha, HUB AMBIENTAL UPLA - Centro de Estudios Avanzados, Playa Ancha 850, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Fernando Esperón
- Animal Health Research Center, INIA-CISA, Valdeolmos, Carretera Algete-El Casar de Talamanca, Km. 8,1, 28130 Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea Moreno-Switt
- Millennium Initiative for Collaborative Research on Bacterial Resistance (MICROB-R), Avenida Las Condes 12.461, torre 3, oficina 205. Las Condes, Chile.,Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
| | - Eduardo Castro-Nallar
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Avenida Republica 330, Santiago 8370186, Chile
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21
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Abstract
Host-adapted microorganisms are generally assumed to have evolved from free-living, environmental microorganisms, as examples of the reverse process are rare. In the phylum Gammaproteobacteria, family Moraxellaceae, the genus Psychrobacter includes strains from a broad ecological distribution including animal bodies as well as sea ice and other nonhost environments. To elucidate the relationship between these ecological niches and Psychrobacter's evolutionary history, we performed tandem genomic analyses with phenotyping of 85 Psychrobacter accessions. Phylogenomic analysis of the family Moraxellaceae reveals that basal members of the Psychrobacter clade are Moraxella spp., a group of often-pathogenic organisms. Psychrobacter exhibited two broad growth patterns in our phenotypic screen: one group that we called the "flexible ecotype" (FE) had the ability to grow between 4 and 37°C, and the other, which we called the "restricted ecotype" (RE), could grow between 4 and 25°C. The FE group includes phylogenetically basal strains, and FE strains exhibit increased transposon copy numbers, smaller genomes, and a higher likelihood to be bile salt resistant. The RE group contains only phylogenetically derived strains and has increased proportions of lipid metabolism and biofilm formation genes, functions that are adaptive to cold stress. In a 16S rRNA gene survey of polar bear fecal samples, we detect both FE and RE strains, but in in vivo colonizations of gnotobiotic mice, only FE strains persist. Our results indicate the ability to grow at 37°C, seemingly necessary for mammalian gut colonization, is an ancestral trait for Psychrobacter, which likely evolved from a pathobiont.IMPORTANCE Host-associated microbes are generally assumed to have evolved from free-living ones. The evolutionary transition of microbes in the opposite direction, from host associated toward free living, has been predicted based on phylogenetic data but not studied in depth. Here, we provide evidence that the genus Psychrobacter, particularly well known for inhabiting low-temperature, high-salt environments such as sea ice, permafrost soils, and frozen foodstuffs, has evolved from a mammalian-associated ancestor. We show that some Psychrobacter strains retain seemingly ancestral genomic and phenotypic traits that correspond with host association while others have diverged to psychrotrophic or psychrophilic lifestyles.
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22
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Nelms SE, Alfaro-Shigueto J, Arnould JPY, Avila IC, Bengtson Nash S, Campbell E, Carter MID, Collins T, Currey RJC, Domit C, Franco-Trecu V, Fuentes MMPB, Gilman E, Harcourt RG, Hines EM, Hoelzel AR, Hooker SK, Johnston DW, Kelkar N, Kiszka JJ, Laidre KL, Mangel JC, Marsh H, Maxwell SM, Onoufriou AB, Palacios DM, Pierce GJ, Ponnampalam LS, Porter LJ, Russell DJF, Stockin KA, Sutaria D, Wambiji N, Weir CR, Wilson B, Godley BJ. Marine mammal conservation: over the horizon. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2021. [DOI: 10.3354/esr01115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine mammals can play important ecological roles in aquatic ecosystems, and their presence can be key to community structure and function. Consequently, marine mammals are often considered indicators of ecosystem health and flagship species. Yet, historical population declines caused by exploitation, and additional current threats, such as climate change, fisheries bycatch, pollution and maritime development, continue to impact many marine mammal species, and at least 25% are classified as threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable) on the IUCN Red List. Conversely, some species have experienced population increases/recoveries in recent decades, reflecting management interventions, and are heralded as conservation successes. To continue these successes and reverse the downward trajectories of at-risk species, it is necessary to evaluate the threats faced by marine mammals and the conservation mechanisms available to address them. Additionally, there is a need to identify evidence-based priorities of both research and conservation needs across a range of settings and taxa. To that effect we: (1) outline the key threats to marine mammals and their impacts, identify the associated knowledge gaps and recommend actions needed; (2) discuss the merits and downfalls of established and emerging conservation mechanisms; (3) outline the application of research and monitoring techniques; and (4) highlight particular taxa/populations that are in urgent need of focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- SE Nelms
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
| | - J Alfaro-Shigueto
- ProDelphinus, Jose Galvez 780e, Miraflores, Perú
- Facultad de Biologia Marina, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - JPY Arnould
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - IC Avila
- Grupo de Ecología Animal, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - S Bengtson Nash
- Environmental Futures Research Institute (EFRI), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - E Campbell
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
- ProDelphinus, Jose Galvez 780e, Miraflores, Perú
| | - MID Carter
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
| | - T Collins
- Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10460, USA
| | - RJC Currey
- Marine Stewardship Council, 1 Snow Hill, London, EC1A 2DH, UK
| | - C Domit
- Laboratory of Ecology and Conservation, Marine Study Center, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Brazil
| | - V Franco-Trecu
- Departamento de Ecología y Evolución, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Uruguay
| | - MMPB Fuentes
- Marine Turtle Research, Ecology and Conservation Group, Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - E Gilman
- Pelagic Ecosystems Research Group, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - RG Harcourt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - EM Hines
- Estuary & Ocean Science Center, San Francisco State University, 3150 Paradise Dr. Tiburon, CA 94920, USA
| | - AR Hoelzel
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - SK Hooker
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
| | - DW Johnston
- Duke Marine Lab, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
| | - N Kelkar
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), Royal Enclave, Srirampura, Jakkur PO, Bangalore 560064, Karnataka, India
| | - JJ Kiszka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Coastlines and Oceans Division, Institute of Environment, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - KL Laidre
- Polar Science Center, APL, University of Washington, 1013 NE 40th Street, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - JC Mangel
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
- ProDelphinus, Jose Galvez 780e, Miraflores, Perú
| | - H Marsh
- James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 48111, Australia
| | - SM Maxwell
- School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, University of Washington Bothell, Bothell WA 98011, USA
| | - AB Onoufriou
- School of Biology, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
- Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - DM Palacios
- Marine Mammal Institute, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, Newport, OR, 97365, USA
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA
| | - GJ Pierce
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Eduardo Cabello 6, 36208 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - LS Ponnampalam
- The MareCet Research Organization, 40460 Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - LJ Porter
- SMRU Hong Kong, University of St. Andrews, Hong Kong
| | - DJF Russell
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
| | - KA Stockin
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - D Sutaria
- School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, University of Washington Bothell, Bothell WA 98011, USA
| | - N Wambiji
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 81651, Mombasa-80100, Kenya
| | - CR Weir
- Ketos Ecology, 4 Compton Road, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 2BP, UK
| | - B Wilson
- Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban, Argyll, PA37 1QA, UK
| | - BJ Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, UK
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Is Harbor Porpoise ( Phocoena phocoena) Exhaled Breath Sampling Suitable for Hormonal Assessments? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030907. [PMID: 33810041 PMCID: PMC8004923 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The progress of animal welfare in wildlife conservation and research calls for more non-invasive sampling techniques. In cetaceans, exhaled breath condensate (blow)—a mixture of cells, mucus and fluids expelled through the force of a whale’s exhale—is a unique sampling matrix for hormones, bacteria and genetic material, among others. Especially the detection of steroid hormones, such as cortisol, is being investigated as stress indicators in several species. As the only native cetacean in Germany, harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are of special conservation concern and research interest. So far, strandings and live captures have been the only method to obtain samples from free-ranging individuals, and novel, non-invasive monitoring methods are desirable for this small cetacean species. Hence, three different blow collection devices were tested on harbor porpoises. All samples were analyzed for cortisol using a commercially available immunosorbent assay. The most suitable protocol for sampling, storage and processing is using a sterile 50 mL centrifuge tube. This pilot study shows that cortisol can be detected in the exhale of harbor porpoises, thus paving the way for future studies and most likely successful non-invasive small cetacean health monitoring through blow. Abstract Over the last decades, exhaled breath sampling has been established for laboratory analysis in various cetacean species. Due to their small size, the usability of respiratory vapor for hormone assessments was questionable in harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). This pilot study compared three different blow collection devices for their suitability in the field and during laboratory processing: a sterile petri dish covered by a Nitex membrane, as well as sterile 50 mL centrifuge tubes with or without manganese(II) chloride as a stabilizer. Collected exhales varied between three, five or ten, depending on feasibility. Hormones were extracted through an ether mix, followed by centrifugal evaporation and cortisol analysis using an immunoassay. Although close to the lower end of the assay’s dynamic range, the ELISA produced results (n = 110, 0.102–0.937 ng/mL). Hence, a simple 50 mL centrifuge tube was determined as the best suited blow collection device, while three consecutive exhales proved sufficient to yield results. These findings are promising regarding the suitability of exhaled breath as a matrix for future endocrine and immune system-related studies in harbor porpoises. If further advanced, blow sampling can become an important, non-invasive tool for studying and monitoring health, stress levels and diseases in harbor porpoises.
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Sehnal L, Brammer-Robbins E, Wormington AM, Blaha L, Bisesi J, Larkin I, Martyniuk CJ, Simonin M, Adamovsky O. Microbiome Composition and Function in Aquatic Vertebrates: Small Organisms Making Big Impacts on Aquatic Animal Health. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:567408. [PMID: 33776947 PMCID: PMC7995652 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.567408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems are under increasing stress from global anthropogenic and natural changes, including climate change, eutrophication, ocean acidification, and pollution. In this critical review, we synthesize research on the microbiota of aquatic vertebrates and discuss the impact of emerging stressors on aquatic microbial communities using two case studies, that of toxic cyanobacteria and microplastics. Most studies to date are focused on host-associated microbiomes of individual organisms, however, few studies take an integrative approach to examine aquatic vertebrate microbiomes by considering both host-associated and free-living microbiota within an ecosystem. We highlight what is known about microbiota in aquatic ecosystems, with a focus on the interface between water, fish, and marine mammals. Though microbiomes in water vary with geography, temperature, depth, and other factors, core microbial functions such as primary production, nitrogen cycling, and nutrient metabolism are often conserved across aquatic environments. We outline knowledge on the composition and function of tissue-specific microbiomes in fish and marine mammals and discuss the environmental factors influencing their structure. The microbiota of aquatic mammals and fish are highly unique to species and a delicate balance between respiratory, skin, and gastrointestinal microbiota exists within the host. In aquatic vertebrates, water conditions and ecological niche are driving factors behind microbial composition and function. We also generate a comprehensive catalog of marine mammal and fish microbial genera, revealing commonalities in composition and function among aquatic species, and discuss the potential use of microbiomes as indicators of health and ecological status of aquatic ecosystems. We also discuss the importance of a focus on the functional relevance of microbial communities in relation to organism physiology and their ability to overcome stressors related to global change. Understanding the dynamic relationship between aquatic microbiota and the animals they colonize is critical for monitoring water quality and population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludek Sehnal
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Elizabeth Brammer-Robbins
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Alexis M. Wormington
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ludek Blaha
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Joe Bisesi
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Iske Larkin
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Christopher J. Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marie Simonin
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, Angers, France
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Moore MJ, Rowles TK, Fauquier DA, Baker JD, Biedron I, Durban JW, Hamilton PK, Henry AG, Knowlton AR, McLellan WA, Miller CA, Pace RM, Pettis HM, Raverty S, Rolland RM, Schick RS, Sharp SM, Smith CR, Thomas L, der Hoop JMV, Ziccardi MH. REVIEW: Assessing North Atlantic right whale health: threats, and development of tools critical for conservation of the species. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2021; 143:205-226. [PMID: 33629663 DOI: 10.3354/dao03578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Whaling has decimated North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis (NARW) since the 11th century and southern right whales E. australis (SRW) since the 19th century. Today, NARWs are Critically Endangered and decreasing, whereas SRWs are recovering. We review NARW health assessment literature, NARW Consortium databases, and efforts and limitations to monitor individual and species health, survival, and fecundity. Photographs are used to track individual movement and external signs of health such as evidence of vessel and entanglement trauma. Post-mortem examinations establish cause of death and determine organ pathology. Photogrammetry is used to assess growth rates and body condition. Samples of blow, skin, blubber, baleen and feces quantify hormones that provide information on stress, reproduction, and nutrition, identify microbiome changes, and assess evidence of infection. We also discuss models of the population consequences of multiple stressors, including the connection between human activities (e.g. entanglement) and health. Lethal and sublethal vessel and entanglement trauma have been identified as major threats to the species. There is a clear and immediate need for expanding trauma reduction measures. Beyond these major concerns, further study is needed to evaluate the impact of other stressors, such as pathogens, microbiome changes, and algal and industrial toxins, on NARW reproductive success and health. Current and new health assessment tools should be developed and used to monitor the effectiveness of management measures and will help determine whether they are sufficient for a substantive species recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Moore
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole MA 02543, USA Co-authors' addresses given in a supplement; www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/d143p205_supp.pdf
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Vendl C, Nelson T, Ferrari B, Thomas T, Rogers T. Highly abundant core taxa in the blow within and across captive bottlenose dolphins provide evidence for a temporally stable airway microbiota. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:20. [PMID: 33421992 PMCID: PMC7796641 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-020-02076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The analysis of blow microbiota has been proposed as a biomarker for respiratory health analysis in cetaceans. Yet, we lack crucial knowledge on the long-term stability of the blow microbiota and its potential changes during disease. Research in humans and mice have provided evidence that respiratory disease is accompanied by a shift in microbial communities of the airways. We investigate here the stability of the community composition of the blow microbiota for 13 captive bottlenose dolphins over eight months including both sick and healthy individuals. We used barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Four of the dolphins experienced distinct medical conditions and received systemic antimicrobial treatment during the study. Results We showed that each dolphin harboured a unique community of zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) that was present throughout the entire sampling period (‘intra-core’). Although for most dolphins there was significant variation over time, overall the intra-core accounted for an average of 73% of relative abundance of the blow microbiota. In addition, the dolphins shared between 8 and 66 zOTUs on any of the sampling occasions (‘inter-core’), accounting for a relative abundance between 17 and 41% of any dolphin’s airway microbiota. The majority of the intra-core and all of the inter-core zOTUs in this study are commonly found in captive and free-ranging dolphins and have previously been reported from several different body sites. While we did not find a clear effect of microbial treatment on blow microbiota, age and sex of the dolphins did have such an effect. Conclusions The airways of dolphins were colonized by an individual intra-core ‘signature’ that varied in abundance relative to more temporary bacteria. We speculate that the intra-core bacteria interact with the immune response of the respiratory tract and support its function. This study provides the first evidence of individual-specific airway microbiota in cetaceans that is stable over eight months. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12866-020-02076-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Vendl
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Tiffanie Nelson
- Queensland Facility for Advanced Bioinformatics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Belinda Ferrari
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Tracey Rogers
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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Hyun CU, Park M, Lee WY. Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)-Based Wildlife Detection: A Review and Case Studies in Maritime Antarctica. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122387. [PMID: 33327472 PMCID: PMC7764989 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122387] [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: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) have been successfully applied in wildlife monitoring with imaging sensors to improve or to supplement conventional field observations. To effectively utilize this technique, we reviewed previous studies related to wildlife detection with RPAS. First, this study provides an overview of the applications of RPAS for wild animal studies from the perspective of individual detection and population surveys as well as behavioral studies. In terms of the RPAS payload, applying thermal-imaging sensors was determined to be advantageous in detecting homeothermic animals due to the thermal contrast with background habitat using case studies detecting southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) using RGB and thermal imaging sensors in King George Island, maritime Antarctica. Abstract In wildlife biology, it is important to conduct efficient observations and quantitative monitoring of wild animals. Conventional wildlife monitoring mainly relies on direct field observations by the naked eyes or through binoculars, on-site image acquisition at fixed spots, and sampling or capturing under severe areal constraints. Recently, remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), also called drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), were successfully applied to detect wildlife with imaging sensors, such as RGB and thermal-imaging sensors, with superior detection capabilities to those of human observation. Here, we review studies with RPAS which has been increasingly used in wildlife detection and explain how an RPAS-based high-resolution RGB image can be applied to wild animal studies from the perspective of individual detection and population surveys as well as behavioral studies. The applicability of thermal-imaging sensors was also assessed with further information extractable from image analyses. In addition, RPAS-based case studies of acquisition of high-resolution RGB images for the purpose of detecting southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) and shape property extraction using thermal-imaging sensor in King George Island, maritime Antarctica is presented as applications in an extreme environment. The case studies suggest that currently available cost-effective small-sized RPAS, which are capable of flexible operation and mounting miniaturized imaging sensors, and are easily maneuverable even from an inflatable boat, can be an effective and supportive technique for both the visual interpretation and quantitative analysis of wild animals in low-accessible extreme or maritime environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Uk Hyun
- Center of Remote Sensing and GIS, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon 21990, Korea;
| | - Mijin Park
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon 21990, Korea;
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Won Young Lee
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon 21990, Korea;
- Correspondence:
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Groch KR, Blazquez DNH, Marcondes MCC, Santos J, Colosio A, Díaz Delgado J, Catão-Dias JL. Cetacean morbillivirus in Humpback whales' exhaled breath. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:1736-1743. [PMID: 33070446 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The humpback whale (HW; Megaptera novaeangliae) population that seasonally resides along the Brazilian coast concentrates in the Abrolhos Bank (Bahia and Espírito Santo states) for breeding during austral winter and spring. Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV, Paramyxoviridae family) is currently one of the most significant biological threats to cetaceans worldwide with high infection and mortality rates. CeMV is pleiotropic yet it has special tropism for the respiratory, lymphoid and nervous system and is primarily transmitted by the aerogenous route. A new lineage of CeMV, the Guiana dolphin morbillivirus (GDMV), is known to affect cetaceans off Brazil. GDMV was first detected in a Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) stranded in the Abrolhos Bank region, in 2010. In addition to pathologic examinations on stranded HW, pathogen survey of free-ranging HW may provide valuable insight into the epidemiology of diseases. We hypothesized that HW in the Brazilian breeding ground could be exposed to CeMV. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the presence of CeMV in exhaled breath condensates (EBC) of HW in the Abrolhos Bank. Overall, 73 samples of EBC from 48 groups of HW were collected during the breeding seasons of 2011 (n = 16) and 2012 (n = 57). One sample failed to have the reference gene amplified and was excluded from the study. CeMV was detected by a RT-qPCR method in 2 EBC samples, representing 2 whale groups. Phylogenetic analysis of partial morbillivirus phosphoprotein gene showed 100% homology to GDMV. Our results show that HW in Brazil are infected by CeMV with a relative prevalence of 4.3% (2/47) and demonstrate the suitability of using EBC and RT-qPCR as a non-invasive tool for CeMV survey in free-ranging whales. This pioneer study provides scientific basis for non-invasive CeMV monitoring of HW, suggests HW may play a role in the dynamics of CeMV and raises concern for potential conservation implications for this species.
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Van Cise AM, Wade PR, Goertz CEC, Burek-Huntington K, Parsons KM, Clauss T, Hobbs RC, Apprill A. Skin microbiome of beluga whales: spatial, temporal, and health-related dynamics. Anim Microbiome 2020; 2:39. [PMID: 33499987 PMCID: PMC7807513 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-020-00057-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Host-specific microbiomes play an important role in individual health and ecology; in marine mammals, epidermal microbiomes may be a protective barrier between the host and its aqueous environment. Understanding these epidermal-associated microbial communities, and their ecological- or health-driven variability, is the first step toward developing health indices for rapid assessment of individual or population health. In Cook Inlet, Alaska, an endangered population of beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) numbers fewer than 300 animals and continues to decline, despite more than a decade of conservation effort. Characterizing the epidermal microbiome of this species could provide insight into the ecology and health of this endangered population and allow the development of minimally invasive health indicators based on tissue samples. RESULTS We sequenced the hypervariable IV region of bacterial and archaeal SSU rRNA genes from epidermal tissue samples collected from endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales (n = 33) and the nearest neighboring population in Bristol Bay (n = 39) between 2012 and 2018. We examined the sequences using amplicon sequence variant (ASV)-based analyses, and no ASVs were associated with all individuals, indicating a greater degree of epidermal microbiome variability among beluga whales than in previously studied cetacean species and suggesting the absence of a species-specific core microbiome. Epidermal microbiome composition differed significantly between populations and across sampling years. Comparing the microbiomes of Bristol Bay individuals of known health status revealed 11 ASVs associated with potential pathogens that differed in abundance between healthy individuals and those with skin lesions or dermatitis. Molting and non-molting individuals also differed significantly in microbial diversity and the abundance of potential pathogen-associated ASVs, indicating the importance of molting in maintaining skin health. CONCLUSIONS We provide novel insights into the dynamics of Alaskan beluga whale epidermal microbial communities. A core epidermal microbiome was not identified across all animals. We characterize microbial dynamics related to population, sampling year and health state including level of skin molting. The results of this study provide a basis for future work to understand the role of the skin microbiome in beluga whale health and to develop health indices for management of the endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales, and cetaceans more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M Van Cise
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA.
- North Gulf Oceanic Society, Visiting Scientist at Northwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Paul R Wade
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Kim M Parsons
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Seattle, WA, USA
- Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tonya Clauss
- Animal & Environmental Heath, Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Roderick C Hobbs
- Marine Mammal Laboratory (retired), Alaska Fisheries Science Center, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Amy Apprill
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA.
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Abstract
The use of drones to study marine animals shows promise for the examination of numerous aspects of their ecology, behaviour, health and movement patterns. However, the responses of some marine phyla to the presence of drones varies broadly, as do the general operational protocols used to study them. Inconsistent methodological approaches could lead to difficulties comparing studies and can call into question the repeatability of research. This review draws on current literature and researchers with a wealth of practical experience to outline the idiosyncrasies of studying various marine taxa with drones. We also outline current best practice for drone operation in marine environments based on the literature and our practical experience in the field. The protocols outlined herein will be of use to researchers interested in incorporating drones as a tool into their research on marine animals and will help form consistent approaches for drone-based studies in the future.
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Abstract
Advances in sequencing, bioinformatics and analytics now allow the structure, function and interrelations of whole microbial communities to be studied in greater detail. Collaborative efforts and multidisciplinary studies, crossing the boundary between environmental and medical microbiology, have allowed specific environmental, animal and human microbiomes to be characterized. One of the main challenges for microbial ecology is to link the phylogenetic diversity of host-associated microbes to their functional roles within the community. Much remains to be learned on the way microbes colonize the skin of different living organisms and the way the skin microbiome reacts to the surrounding environment (air, water, etc.). In this review, we discuss examples of recent studies that have used modern technology to provide insights into microbial communities in water and on skin, such as those in natural resources (thermal spring water), large mammals (humpback whales) and humans (the skin microbiome). The results of these studies demonstrate how a greater understanding of the structure and functioning of microbiota, together with their interactions with the environment, may facilitate the discovery of new probiotics or postbiotics, provide indicators for the quality of the environment, and show how changes in lifestyle and living environment, such as urbanization, can impact on the skin microbiome and skin health and disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Callewaert
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Katia Ravard Helffer
- Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique R&D Center, 3 Avenue Hubert Curien, 31035, Toulouse Cedex 01, France
| | - Philippe Lebaron
- Laboratoire de Biodiversité et Biotechnologies Microbiennes (LBBM), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls-sur-Mer, Avenue Pierre Fabre, 66650, Banyuls-sur-Mer, France.
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Kratofil MA, Ylitalo GM, Mahaffy SD, West KL, Baird RW. Life history and social structure as drivers of persistent organic pollutant levels and stable isotopes in Hawaiian false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 733:138880. [PMID: 32446048 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
False killer whales are long-lived, slow to mature, apex predators, and therefore susceptible to bioaccumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Hawaiian waters are home to three distinct populations: pelagic; Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) insular; and main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) insular. Following a precipitous decline over recent decades, the MHI population was listed as "endangered" under the Endangered Species Act in 2012. This study assesses the risk of POP exposure to these populations by examining pollutant concentrations and ratios from blubber samples (n = 56) related to life history characteristics and MHI social clusters. Samples were analyzed for PCBs, DDTs, PBDEs, and some organochlorine pesticides. Skin samples (n = 52) were analyzed for stable isotopes δ13C and δ15N to gain insight into MHI false killer whale foraging ecology. Pollutant levels were similar among populations, although MHI whales had a significantly higher mean ratio of DDTs/PCBs than NWHI whales. The ∑PCB concentrations of 28 MHI individuals (68%) sampled were equal to or greater than suggested thresholds for deleterious health effects in marine mammals. The highest POP values among our samples were found in four stranded MHI animals. Eight of 24 MHI adult females have not been documented to have given birth; whether they have yet to reproduce, are reproductive senescent, or are experiencing reproductive dysfunction related to high POP exposure is unknown. Juvenile/sub-adults had significantly higher concentrations of certain contaminants than those measured in adults, and may be at greater risk of negative health effects during development. Multivariate analyses, POP ratios, and stable isotope ratios indicate varying risk of POP exposure, foraging locations and potentially prey items among MHI social clusters. Our findings provide invaluable insight into the ongoing risk POPs pose to the MHI population's viability, as well as consideration of risk for the NWHI and pelagic stocks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gina M Ylitalo
- Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA.
| | - Sabre D Mahaffy
- Cascadia Research Collective, 218½ W. 4th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
| | - Kristi L West
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, PO Box 1346, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA; Human Nutrition Food and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, 1955 East West Road, Ag Sci 216, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
| | - Robin W Baird
- Cascadia Research Collective, 218½ W. 4th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA; Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, PO Box 1346, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA.
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Respiratory microbiota of humpback whales may be reduced in diversity and richness the longer they fast. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12645. [PMID: 32724137 PMCID: PMC7387350 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Humpback whales endure several months of fasting while undertaking one of the longest annual migrations of any mammal, which depletes the whales’ energy stores and likely compromises their physiological state. Airway microbiota are linked to respiratory health in mammals. To illuminate the dynamics of airway microbiota in a physiologically challenged mammal, we investigated the bacterial communities in the blow of East Australian humpback whales at two stages of their migration: at the beginning (n = 20) and several months into their migration (n = 20), using barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. We show that early in the fasting the whale blow samples had a higher diversity and richness combined with a larger number of core taxa and a different bacterial composition than later in the fasting. This study provides some evidence that the rich blow microbiota at the beginning of their fasting might reflect the whales’ uncompromised physiology and that changes in the microbiota occur during the whales’ migration.
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Volokhov DV, Blom J, Amselle M, Delmonte P, Gao Y, Shen Z, Zhang S, Gulland FM, Chizhikov VE, Eisenberg T. Oceanivirga miroungae sp. nov., isolated from oral cavity of northern elephant seal ( Mirounga angustirostris). Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2020; 70:3037-3048. [PMID: 32223835 DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.004127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Two independent strains of a Leptotrichia species (ES3154-GLUT and ES2714_GLU) were isolated from the oral cavity of northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) that were admitted to The Marine Mammal Centre facilities in California, USA. The strains were isolated from oral swabs by cultivation in PPLO broth supplemented with serum, penicillin and colistin in anaerobic conditions. The strains were Gram-negative, pleomorphic, indole-, oxidase- and catalase-negative, non-spore-forming, non-motile rods/coccobacilli in short chains. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of these strains shared 94.42 % nucleotide similarity with Oceanivirga salmonicida AVG 2115T but demonstrated ≤86.00-92.50 % nucleotide similarity to the 16S rRNA genes of other species of the family Leptotrichiaceae. The genome was sequenced for strain ES3154-GLUT. Average nucleotide identity values between strain ES3154-GLUT and 15 type strain genomes from the family Leptotrichiaceae ranged from 66.74 % vs. Sebaldella termitidis to 73.35 % vs. O. salmonicida. The whole genome phylogeny revealed that the novel species was most closely related to O. salmonicida AVG 2115T. This relationship was also confirmed by nucleotide similarity and multilocus phylogenetic analyses employing various housekeeping genes (partial 23S rRNA, rpoB, rpoC, rpoD, polC, adh, gyrA and gyrB genes). Chemotaxonomic and phenotypical features of strain ES3154-GLUT were in congruence with closely related members of the family Leptotrichiaceae, represented by similar enzyme profiles and fatty acid patterns. MALDI-TOF MS analysis was capable to clearly discriminate strain ES3154-GLUT from all currently described taxa of the family Leptotrichiaceae. Based on these data, we propose a novel species of the genus Oceanivirga, for which the name Oceanivirga miroungae sp. nov. is proposed with the type strain ES3154-GLUT (=DSM 109740T=CCUG 73653T=ATCC TSD-189T=NCTC 14411T) and one representative strain ES2714_GLU. The G+C content is 26.82 %, genome size is 1 356 983 bp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitriy V Volokhov
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Jochen Blom
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich Buff Ring 58, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Megan Amselle
- American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), 10801 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Pierluigi Delmonte
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Dr., College Park, MD 20740, USA
| | - Yamei Gao
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Zhenyu Shen
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 901 East Campus Loop, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Shuping Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 901 East Campus Loop, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Frances M Gulland
- Wildlife Health Center, University of California, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Dr., Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Vladimir E Chizhikov
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Tobias Eisenberg
- Hessian State Laboratory (LHL), Department of Veterinary Medicine, Schubertstrasse 60, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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Centelleghe C, Carraro L, Gonzalvo J, Rosso M, Esposti E, Gili C, Bonato M, Pedrotti D, Cardazzo B, Povinelli M, Mazzariol S. The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to sample the blow microbiome of small cetaceans. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235537. [PMID: 32614926 PMCID: PMC7332044 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies describe the use of UAVs in collecting blow samples from large whales to analyze the microbial and viral community in exhaled air. Unfortunately, attempts to collect blow from small cetaceans have not been successful due to their swimming and diving behavior. In order to overcome these limitations, in this study we investigated the application of a specific sampling tool attached to a UAV to analyze the blow from small cetaceans and their respiratory microbiome. Preliminary trials to set up the sampling tool were conducted on a group of 6 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under human care, housed at Acquario di Genova, with approximately 1 meter distance between the blowing animal and the tool to obtain suitable samples. The same sampling kit, suspended via a 2 meter rope assembled on a waterproof UAV, flying 3 meters above the animals, was used to sample the blows of 5 wild bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Ambracia (Greece) and a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy), to investigate whether this experimental assembly also works for large whale sampling. In order to distinguish between blow-associated microbes and seawater microbes, we pooled 5 seawater samples from the same area where blow samples’ collection were carried out. The the respiratory microbiota was assessed by using the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene via Illumina Amplicon Sequencing. The pooled water samples contained more bacterial taxa than the blow samples of both wild animals and the sequenced dolphin maintained under human care. The composition of the bacterial community differed between the water samples and between the blow samples of wild cetaceans and that under human care, but these differences may have been mediated by different microbial communities between seawater and aquarium water. The sperm whale’s respiratory microbiome was more similar to the results obtained from wild bottlenose dolphins. Although the number of samples used in this study was limited and sampling and analyses were impaired by several limitations, the results are rather encouraging, as shown by the evident microbial differences between seawater and blow samples, confirmed also by the meta-analysis carried out comparing our results with those obtained in previous studies. Collecting exhaled air from small cetaceans using drones is a challenging process, both logistically and technically. The success in obtaining samples from small cetacean blow in this study in comparison to previous studies is likely due to the distance the sampling kit is suspended from the drone, which reduced the likelihood that the turbulence of the drone propeller interfered with successfully sampling blow, suggested as a factor leading to poor success in previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | | | - Erika Esposti
- Costa Edutainment spa c/o Acquario di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Marco Bonato
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Davide Pedrotti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Barbara Cardazzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Michele Povinelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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You L, Ying C, Liu K, Zhang X, Lin D, Yin D, Zhang J, Xu P. Changes in the fecal microbiome of the Yangtze finless porpoise during a short-term therapeutic treatment. Open Life Sci 2020; 15:296-310. [PMID: 33817218 PMCID: PMC7988435 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2020-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The fecal microbiome is an integral part of aquatic mammals, like an inner organ. But we know very little about this inner organ of the threatened aquatic species, Yangtze finless porpoise (YFP). Four YFPs were placed into a purse seine for skin ulceration treatment, and this opportunity was taken to nurse the animals closer. In particular, we collected the feces of the YFPs before and after the paired healing and therapeutic treatment, along with samples of their fish diet and water habitat, to explore the changes in their fecal microbiome. Firmicutes (20.9–96.1%), Proteobacteria (3.8–78.7%), Actinobacteria (0.1–35.0%) and Tenericutes (0.8–17.1%) were the most dominant phyla present in the feces. The proportion of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria increased after the treatment. Firmicutes showed a significant decrease, and most potential pathogens were absent, which reflected the administration of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride. Moreover, environmental shifts can also contribute to changes in the fecal microbiome. These results indicate that certain microbial interactions can be affected by environmental shifts, dietary changes and health-care treatments, which can also help maintain the internal environment of YFPs. These findings will inform the future enhanced protection and management of endangered YFPs and other vulnerable aquatic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei You
- Wuxi Fisheries College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, China
| | - Congping Ying
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xizhao Zhang
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Danqing Lin
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Denghua Yin
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jialu Zhang
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pao Xu
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Fishery Resources and Environment in the Lower Reaches of the Changjiang River, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, CAFS, Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
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37
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Vendl C, Ferrari BC, Thomas T, Slavich E, Zhang E, Nelson T, Rogers T. Interannual comparison of core taxa and community composition of the blow microbiota from East Australian humpback whales. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2020; 95:5526219. [PMID: 31260051 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiz102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cetacean represent vulnerable species impacted by multiple stressors, including reduction in prey species, habitat destruction, whaling and infectious disease. The composition of blow microbiota has been claimed to provide a promising tool for non-invasive health monitoring aiming to inform conservation management. Still, little is known about the temporal stability and composition of blow microbiota in whales. We used East Australian humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) as a model species and collected blow and control samples in August 2016 and 2017 for an interannual comparison. We analysed the blow by barcode tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. We found that the microbial communities in 2016 and 2017 were statistically similar regarding alpha and beta diversity but distinct to seawater. Zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) shared by both groups accounted for about 50% of all zOTUs present. Still, the large individual variability in the blow microbiota resulted in a small number of core taxa (defined as present in at least 60% of whales). We conclude that the blow microbiota of humpback whales is either generally limited and of transient nature or the reduced airway microbiota is the symptom of a compromised physiological state potentially due to the challenges of the whales' annual migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Vendl
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - B C Ferrari
- The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - T Thomas
- Centre of Marine Bio-Innovation (CMB), School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - E Slavich
- Stats Central, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - E Zhang
- The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - T Nelson
- Queensland Facility for Advanced Bioinformatics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia
| | - T Rogers
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Vendl C, Slavich E, Nelson T, Acevedo-Whitehouse K, Montgomery K, Ferrari B, Thomas T, Rogers T. Does sociality drive diversity and composition of airway microbiota in cetaceans? ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2020; 12:324-333. [PMID: 32162479 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.12835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The number of social contacts of mammals is positively correlated with the diversity of their gut microbes. There is some evidence that sociality also affects microbes in the respiratory tract. We tested whether the airway microbiota of cetacean species differ depending on the whales' level of sociality. We sampled the blow of blue (Balaenoptera musculus), grey (Eschrichtius robustus), humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) and long-finned pilot whales (PWs) (Globicephala melas) and analysed the blow microbiota by barcode tag sequencing targeting the V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Humpback whales (HWs) show higher levels of sociality than blue (BW) and grey (GW), while PWs are the most gregarious among the four species. The blow samples of the HWs showed the highest richness and diversity. HWs were also the only species with a species-specific clustering of their microbial community composition and a relatively large number of core taxa. Therefore, we conclude that it cannot be sociality alone shaping the diversity and composition of airway microbiota. We suggest the whale species' lung volume and size of the plume of exhaled air as an additional factor impacting the transmission potential of blow microbiota from one individual whale to another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Vendl
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Eve Slavich
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Stats Central, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, UNSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Tiffanie Nelson
- Queensland Facility for Advanced Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Building G40, Level 9, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Karina Acevedo-Whitehouse
- Unit for Basic and Applied Microbiology, School of Natural Sciences, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro, 76230, Mexico
| | - Kate Montgomery
- The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Belinda Ferrari
- The School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre of Marine Bio-Innovation (CMB), School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Tracey Rogers
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Science, UNSW Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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Palmer R, Fleming GTA, Glaeser S, Semmler T, Flamm A, Ewers C, Kämpfer P, Budich O, Berrow S, O'Brien J, Siebert U, Collins E, Ruttledge M, Eisenberg T. Marine mammals are natural hosts of Oceanivirga salmonicida, a bacterial pathogen of Atlantic salmon. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2020; 139:161-174. [PMID: 32406871 DOI: 10.3354/dao03478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
During 1992 and 1993, a bacterial disease occurred in a seawater Atlantic salmon Salmo salar farm, causing serious mortalities. The causative agent was subsequently named as Oceanivirga salmonicida, a member of the Leptotrichiaceae. Searches of 16S rRNA gene sequence databases have shown sequence similarities between O. salmonicida and uncultured bacterial clones from the digestive tracts of marine mammals. In the current study, oral samples were taken from stranded dolphins (common dolphin Delphinus delphis, striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba) and healthy harbour seals Phoca vitulina. A bacterium with growth characteristics consistent with O. salmonicida was isolated from a common dolphin. The isolate was confirmed as O. salmonicida, by comparisons to the type strain, using 16S rRNA gene, gyrB, groEL, and recA sequence analyses, average nucleotide identity analysis, and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Metagenomic analysis indicated that the genus Oceanivirga represented a significant component of the oral bacterial microbiomes of the dolphins and seals. However, sequences consistent with O. salmonicida were only found in the dolphin samples. Analyses of marine mammal microbiome studies in the NCBI databases showed sequences consistent with O. salmonicida from the common dolphin, striped dolphin, bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus, humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae, and harbour seal. Sequences from marine environmental studies in the NCBI databases showed no sequences consistent with O. salmonicida. The findings suggest that several species of marine mammals are natural hosts of O. salmonicida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Palmer
- Discipline of Microbiology, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway H91TK33, Ireland
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Apprill A, Miller CA, Van Cise AM, U'Ren JM, Leslie MS, Weber L, Baird RW, Robbins J, Landry S, Bogomolni A, Waring G. Marine mammal skin microbiotas are influenced by host phylogeny. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2020; 7:192046. [PMID: 32537203 PMCID: PMC7277249 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.192046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Skin-associated microorganisms have been shown to play a role in immune function and disease of humans, but are understudied in marine mammals, a diverse animal group that serve as sentinels of ocean health. We examined the microbiota associated with 75 epidermal samples opportunistically collected from nine species within four marine mammal families, including: Balaenopteridae (sei and fin whales), Phocidae (harbour seal), Physeteridae (sperm whales) and Delphinidae (bottlenose dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, short-finned pilot whales and melon-headed whales). The skin was sampled from free-ranging animals in Hawai'i (Pacific Ocean) and off the east coast of the United States (Atlantic Ocean), and the composition of the bacterial community was examined using the sequencing of partial small subunit (SSU) ribosomal RNA genes. Skin microbiotas were significantly different among host species and taxonomic families, and microbial community distance was positively correlated with mitochondrial-based host genetic divergence. The oceanic location could play a role in skin microbiota variation, but skin from species sampled in both locations is necessary to determine this influence. These data suggest that a phylosymbiotic relationship may exist between microbiota and their marine mammal hosts, potentially providing specific health and immune-related functions that contribute to the success of these animals in diverse ocean ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Apprill
- Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Carolyn A. Miller
- Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Amy M. Van Cise
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Jana M. U'Ren
- BIO5 Institute and Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Laura Weber
- Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Scott Landry
- Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, MA, USA
| | - Andrea Bogomolni
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Gordon Waring
- NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Protected Species Branch, Woods Hole, MA, USA
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Zemanova MA. Towards more compassionate wildlife research through the 3Rs principles: moving from invasive to non-invasive methods. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam A. Zemanova
- M. A. Zemanova (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5002-3388) ✉ , Dept of Philosophy, Univ. of Basel, Steinengraben 5, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
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Barratclough A, Wells RS, Schwacke LH, Rowles TK, Gomez FM, Fauquier DA, Sweeney JC, Townsend FI, Hansen LJ, Zolman ES, Balmer BC, Smith CR. Health Assessments of Common Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus): Past, Present, and Potential Conservation Applications. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:444. [PMID: 31921905 PMCID: PMC6923228 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is a global marine mammal species for which some populations, due to their coastal accessibility, have been monitored diligently by scientists for decades. Health assessment examinations have developed a comprehensive knowledge base of dolphin biology, population structure, and environmental or anthropogenic stressors affecting their dynamics. Bottlenose dolphin health assessments initially started as stock assessments prior to acquisition. Over the last four decades, health assessments have evolved into essential conservation management tools of free-ranging dolphin populations. Baseline data enable comparison of stressors between geographic locations and associated changes in individual and population health status. In addition, long-term monitoring provides opportunities for insights into population shifts over time, with retrospective application of novel diagnostic tests on archived samples. Expanding scientific knowledge enables effective long-term conservation management strategies by facilitating informed decision making and improving social understanding of the anthropogenic effects. The ability to use bottlenose dolphins as a model for studying marine mammal health has been pivotal in our understanding of anthropogenic effects on multiple marine mammal species. Future studies aim to build on current knowledge to influence management decisions and species conservation. This paper reviews the historical approaches to dolphin health assessments, present day achievements, and development of future conservation goals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Randall S Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL, United States
| | - Lori H Schwacke
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Teresa K Rowles
- NOAA, National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Forrest M Gomez
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Deborah A Fauquier
- NOAA, National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Larry J Hansen
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Eric S Zolman
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Brian C Balmer
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Cynthia R Smith
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
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Coordinated transformation of the gut microbiome and lipidome of bowhead whales provides novel insights into digestion. ISME JOURNAL 2019; 14:688-701. [PMID: 31787747 PMCID: PMC7031289 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-019-0549-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Whale digestion plays an integral role in many ocean ecosystems. By digesting enormous quantities of lipid-rich prey, whales support their energy intensive lifestyle, but also excrete nutrients important to ocean biogeochemical cycles. Nevertheless, whale digestion is poorly understood. Gastrointestinal microorganisms play a significant role in vertebrate digestion, but few studies have examined them in whales. To investigate digestion of lipids, and the potential contribution of microbes to lipid digestion in whales, we characterized lipid composition (lipidomes) and bacterial communities (microbiotas) in 126 digesta samples collected throughout the gastrointestinal tracts of 38 bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) harvested by Alaskan Eskimos. Lipidomes and microbiotas were strongly correlated throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Lipidomes and microbiotas were most variable in the small intestine and most similar in the large intestine, where microbiota richness was greatest. Our results suggest digestion of wax esters, the primary lipids in B. mysticetus prey representing more than 80% of total dietary lipids, occurred in the mid- to distal small intestine and was correlated with specific microorganisms. Because wax esters are difficult to digest by other marine vertebrates and constitute a large reservoir of carbon in the ocean, our results further elucidate the essential roles that whales and their gastrointestinal microbiotas play in the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nutrients in high-latitude seas.
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Raudino HC, Tyne JA, Smith A, Ottewell K, McArthur S, Kopps AM, Chabanne D, Harcourt RG, Pirotta V, Waples K. Challenges of collecting blow from small cetaceans. Ecosphere 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.2901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Holly C. Raudino
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kensington Western Australia Australia
| | - Julian A. Tyne
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
- Aquatic Megafauna Research Unit Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Alastair Smith
- Heliguy Scientific Pty. Ltd Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Kym Ottewell
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kensington Western Australia Australia
| | - Shelley McArthur
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kensington Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Delphine Chabanne
- Environmental and Conservation Sciences Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
- Aquatic Megafauna Research Unit Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Robert G. Harcourt
- Marine Predator Research Group Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Vanessa Pirotta
- Marine Predator Research Group Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Kelly Waples
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kensington Western Australia Australia
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Whale counting in satellite and aerial images with deep learning. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14259. [PMID: 31582780 PMCID: PMC6776647 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50795-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite their interest and threat status, the number of whales in world’s oceans remains highly uncertain. Whales detection is normally carried out from costly sighting surveys, acoustic surveys or through high-resolution images. Since deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are achieving great performance in several computer vision tasks, here we propose a robust and generalizable CNN-based system for automatically detecting and counting whales in satellite and aerial images based on open data and tools. In particular, we designed a two-step whale counting approach, where the first CNN finds the input images with whale presence, and the second CNN locates and counts each whale in those images. A test of the system on Google Earth images in ten global whale-watching hotspots achieved a performance (F1-measure) of 81% in detecting and 94% in counting whales. Combining these two steps increased accuracy by 36% compared to a baseline detection model alone. Applying this cost-effective method worldwide could contribute to the assessment of whale populations to guide conservation actions. Free and global access to high-resolution imagery for conservation purposes would boost this process.
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Poljak M, Šterbenc A. Use of drones in clinical microbiology and infectious diseases: current status, challenges and barriers. Clin Microbiol Infect 2019; 26:425-430. [PMID: 31574337 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2019.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles are autonomous or remotely controlled multipurpose aerial vehicles driven by aerodynamic forces and capable of carrying a payload. Whereas initially used exclusively for military purposes, the use of drones has gradually spread into other areas. Given their great flexibility and favourable costs, the use of drones has also been piloted in various healthcare settings. OBJECTIVES We briefly summarize current knowledge regarding the use of drones in healthcare, focusing on infectious diseases and/or microbiology when applicable. SOURCES Information was sought through PubMed and extracted from peer-reviewed literature published between January 2010 and August 2019 and from reliable online news sources. The search terms 'drones', 'unmanned aerial vehicles', 'microbiology' and 'medicine' were used. CONTENT Peer-reviewed literature on the use of drones in healthcare has steadily increased in recent years. Drones have been successfully evaluated in various pilot programmes and are already implemented in some settings for transporting samples and delivering blood, vaccines, medicines, organs, life-saving medical supplies and equipment. In addition, a promising proof-of-concept 'lab-on-a-drone' was recently presented, as well as several pilot studies showing the benefits of drone use in surveillance and epidemiology of infectious diseases. IMPLICATIONS The potential for drone use in clinical microbiology, infectious diseases and epidemiology is vast. Drones may help to increase access to healthcare for individuals that might otherwise not benefit from appropriate care due to remoteness and lack of infrastructure or funds. However, factors such as national airspace legislation and legal medical issues, differences in topography and climates, cost-effectiveness, and community attitudes and acceptance in different cultures and societies currently impede the widespread use of drones. Significant cost savings compared with ground transportation, speed and convenience of delivery, and the booming drone sector will probably drive drone implementation in various areas of medicine in the next 5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - A Šterbenc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Microbiota fingerprints within the oral cavity of cetaceans as indicators for population biomonitoring. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13679. [PMID: 31548611 PMCID: PMC6757053 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50139-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The composition of mammalian microbiota has been related with the host health status. In this study, we assessed the oral microbiome of 3 cetacean species most commonly found stranded in Iberian Atlantic waters (Delphinus delphis, Stenella coeruleoalba and Phocoena phocoena), using 16S rDNA-amplicon metabarcoding. All oral microbiomes were dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria bacteria, which were also predominant in the oral cavity of Tursiops truncatus. A Constrained Canonical Analysis (CCA) showed that the major factors shaping the composition of 38 oral microbiomes (p-value < 0.05) were: (i) animal species and (ii) age class, segregating adults and juveniles. The correlation analysis also grouped the microbiomes by animal stranding location and health status. Similar discriminatory patterns were detected using the data from a previous study on Tursiops truncatus, indicating that this correlation approach may facilitate data comparisons between different studies on several cetacean species. This study identified a total of 15 bacterial genera and 27 OTUs discriminating between the observed CCA groups, which can be further explored as microbiota fingerprints to develop (i) specific diagnostic assays for cetacean population conservation and (ii) bio-monitoring approaches to assess the health of marine ecosystems from the Iberian Atlantic basin, using cetaceans as bioindicators.
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Grosser S, Sauer J, Paijmans AJ, Caspers BA, Forcada J, Wolf JBW, Hoffman JI. Fur seal microbiota are shaped by the social and physical environment, show mother–offspring similarities and are associated with host genetic quality. Mol Ecol 2019; 28:2406-2422. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.15070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Grosser
- Department of Animal Behaviour Bielefeld University Bielefeld Germany
- Division of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology LMU Munich Planegg‐Martinsried Germany
| | - Jan Sauer
- Department of Animal Behaviour Bielefeld University Bielefeld Germany
| | | | | | - Jaume Forcada
- British Antarctic Survey Natural Environment Research Council Cambridge UK
| | - Jochen B. W. Wolf
- Division of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology LMU Munich Planegg‐Martinsried Germany
- Department of Evolutionary Biology Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
| | - Joseph I. Hoffman
- Department of Animal Behaviour Bielefeld University Bielefeld Germany
- British Antarctic Survey Natural Environment Research Council Cambridge UK
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Taking Advantage of the Genomics Revolution for Monitoring and Conservation of Chondrichthyan Populations. DIVERSITY-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/d11040049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chondrichthyes (sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras) are among the oldest extant predators and are vital to top-down regulation of oceanic ecosystems. They are an ecologically diverse group occupying a wide range of habitats and are thus, exploited by coastal, pelagic and deep-water fishing industries. Chondrichthyes are among the most data deficient vertebrate species groups making design and implementation of regulatory and conservation measures challenging. High-throughput sequencing technologies have significantly propelled ecological investigations and understanding of marine and terrestrial species’ populations, but there remains a paucity of NGS based research on chondrichthyan populations. We present a brief review of current methods to access genomic and metagenomic data from Chondrichthyes and discuss applications of these datasets to increase our understanding of chondrichthyan taxonomy, evolution, ecology and population structures. Last, we consider opportunities and challenges offered by genomic studies for conservation and management of chondrichthyan populations.
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