1
|
Wojczulanis-Jakubas K, Hoover B, Jakubas D, Fort J, Grémillet D, Gavrilo M, Zielińska S, Zagalska-Neubauer M. Diversity of major histocompatibility complex of II B gene and mate choice in a monogamous and long-lived seabird, the Little Auk (Alle alle). PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304275. [PMID: 38865310 PMCID: PMC11168636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a key role in the adaptive immune system of vertebrates, and is known to influence mate choice in many species. In birds, the MHC has been extensively examined but mainly in galliforms and passerines while other taxa that represent specific ecological and evolutionary life-histories, like seabirds, are underexamined. Here, we characterized diversity of MHC Class II B exon 2 in a colonial pelagic seabird, the Little Auk (or Dovekie Alle alle). We further examined whether MHC variation could be maintained through balancing selection and disassortative mating. We found high polymorphism at the genotyped MHC fragment, characterizing 99 distinct alleles across 140 individuals from three populations. The alleles frequencies exhibited a similar skewed distribution in both sexes, with the four most commonly occurring alleles representing approximately 35% of allelic variation. The results of a Bayesian site-by-site selection analysis suggest evidence of balancing selection and no direct evidence for MHC-dependent disassortative mating preferences in the Little Auk. The latter result might be attributed to the high overall polymorphism of the examined fragment, which itself may be maintained by the large population size of the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian Hoover
- Farallon Institute, Petaluma, California, United States of America
| | - Dariusz Jakubas
- Department of Vertebrate Ecology and Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Jérôme Fort
- Littoral, Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS – La Rochelle University, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - David Grémillet
- Excellence Chair Nouvelle Aquitaine - CEBC UMR 7372 CNRS, La Rochelle Université, Villiers-en-Bois, France & FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | | | - Sylwia Zielińska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sgarioni AZ, Serafini P, Pereira A, Emmerich T, Pontes TPD, Machado DC, Ribeiro PR, Amorim DBD, Klafke G, Reck J. Molecular Survey of Haemosporidian Parasites in Procellariiformes Sampled in Southern Brazil, 2013-22. J Wildl Dis 2024; 60:413-420. [PMID: 38294761 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00087] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The order Procellariiformes includes several species of seabirds that perform long-distance migrations crossing all the oceans. These movements may contribute to the dispersal and exchange of hemoparasites, such as haemosporidians. There is a lack of studies regarding the order Haemosporida in Procellariiformes, and, to date, only the genus Plasmodium has been reported. This survey investigated the occurrence of the three genera of haemosporidians, Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon, in samples collected between 2013 and 2022 from 95 individuals of 14 species of Procellariiformes from southern Brazil, including live animals in rehabilitation centers, individuals caught as incidental bycatch, and carcasses found along the coast. A total of 171 samples of blood and fragments of liver and spleen were analyzed, with extracted DNA being subjected to a nested PCR followed by phylogeny analysis. All animals were negative for Plasmodium spp. and Leucocytozoon spp., but one Black-browed Albatross (Thalassarche melanophris) and one Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) specimen were positive for Haemoproteus spp. The sequences obtained from positive seabirds did not show 100% similarity with other known lineages available in the MalAvi database and thus were probably novel lineages. However, one sequence clustered together with Haemoproteus noctuae, a parasite from Strigiformes, while the other was grouped with Haemoproteus columbae, which is classically related to Columbiformes. These results suggest that both positive animals may have become infected when beached or in rehabilitation centers by a spillover of vectors from local birds. This highlights the importance of surveillance of the health of Procellariiformes regarding the possibility of dissemination of new pathogens in different bird populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelise Zabel Sgarioni
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, 92990-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Patricia Serafini
- Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Aves Silvestres (CEMAVE), Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBio), Rodovia Maurício Sirotski Sobrinho s/n, Florianópolis, 88053-700, SC, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores de Contaminação Aquática e Imunoquímica (LABCAI), Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Rua João Pio Duarte Silva, 241, bloco F, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil
| | - Alice Pereira
- Projeto Albatroz, Rodovia SC 402, Km 2, Rio Vermelho, Florianópolis, 88061-500, SC, Brazil
| | - Tiffany Emmerich
- Unidade de Estabilização de Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale de Itajaí (UNIVALI), Avenida Itacolumi, 228, Penha, 88385-000, SC, Brazil
| | - Thamires Pires de Pontes
- Unidade de Estabilização de Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale de Itajaí (UNIVALI), Avenida Itacolumi, 228, Penha, 88385-000, SC, Brazil
| | - Douglas Coutinho Machado
- Unidade de Estabilização de Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale de Itajaí (UNIVALI), Avenida Itacolumi, 228, Penha, 88385-000, SC, Brazil
| | - Paula Reis Ribeiro
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9090, Porto Alegre, 90650-001, RS, Brazil
| | - Derek Blaese de Amorim
- Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9090, Porto Alegre, 90650-001, RS, Brazil
- Centro de Estudos Costeiros, Limnológicos e Marinhos (CECLIMAR), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Tramandaí, 976, Imbé, 95625-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, 92990-000, RS, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, 92990-000, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dubiec A, Atamas N, Ledwoń M. Very low prevalence of haemosporidian parasites in two species of marsh terns. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:3063-3075. [PMID: 37907627 PMCID: PMC10667446 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07997-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Vector-transmitted haemosporidians are among the most common parasites in birds, but our knowledge of the inter-specific patterns of infection rates and the parasite community composition is far from complete because of the unequal distribution of the screening effort across bird families and genera. To assess infection rates and the diversity of haemosporidians from the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon in marsh terns, which represent poorly explored in this regard genus of the family gulls, terns, and skimmers (Laridae), we screened two species: the Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) and the Black Tern (Chlidonias niger). We sampled these long-distance migratory birds on breeding grounds: the Whiskered Tern in south-central Poland and north-central Ukraine, and the Black Tern-in north-central Ukraine. We found that birds from both species were infected only sporadically, with prevalence at the population level not exceeding 3.4%. Only parasites from the genera Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon were detected. There was neither an inter-specific difference nor a difference between populations of the Whiskered Tern in infection rates. In total, we registered three lineages-one Plasmodium and two Leucocytozoon-that were previously recorded in other bird species, and two unidentified Plasmodium infections. One of the lineages (Leucocytozoon LARCAC02) represents a specialist parasite with the host range restricted to larids and geographic range restricted to Poland, and two others (Plasmodium SGS1 and Leucocytozoon CIAE02) represent generalist parasites with very broad host and geographic ranges. This study reinforces the existing evidence that terns host parasites from genera Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon only sporadically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Dubiec
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wilcza 64, 00-679, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Natalia Atamas
- Department of Animal Monitoring and Conservation, Laboratory of Population Ecology, I. I. Schmalhausen Institute of Zoology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, B. Khmelnytskoho Str., 15, Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine
| | - Mateusz Ledwoń
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Cracow, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vanstreels RET, Chagas CRF, Valkiūnas G, Dos Anjos CC, Parsons NJ, Roberts DG, Snyman A, Hurtado R, Kirchgatter K, Ludynia K, Pistorius PA. Haemoproteus jenniae (Haemoproteidae, Haemosporida) infects gulls ( Larus spp.) in South Africa, with redescription of Haemoproteus skuae. Parasitology 2023; 150:1286-1295. [PMID: 36951108 PMCID: PMC10941229 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202300029x] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Haemoproteus spp. are dipteran-borne protozoa that infect erythrocytes and reticulo-endothelial cells of birds. These parasites are not usually transmitted between birds belonging to different orders. The suborder Lari (order Charadriiformes) comprises ~170 avian species, the majority of which are aquatic, including gulls, terns, auklets, murres and skuas, among others. In spite of the diversity of this avian group, there is limited known diversity of haemosporidian parasites, with only 4 recorded Haemoproteus morphospecies thus far. We examined the blood smears of 21 kelp gulls (Larus dominicanus) captured at a breeding colony in South Africa, as well as Haemoproteus-positive archival blood smears of 15 kelp gulls and 1 Hartlaub's gull (Larus hartlaubii) sampled while under care at seabird rehabilitation facilities in South Africa. Haemoproteus sp. infection was detected in 19% of wild-caught kelp gulls. All parasites from the gulls were morphologically identified as Haemoproteus jenniae, a species previously recorded in Lari birds at the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Rocas Atoll (Brazil) and Poland. Gene sequencing uncovered a new cytochrome b lineage, LARDOM01, which was closely related to the previously reported H. jenniae lineage CREFUR01. Additionally, we evaluated a hapantotype blood smear of Haemoproteus skuae, which had been described infecting a brown skua (Catharacta antarctica) in South Africa. We provide a redescription of H. skuae and discuss the morphological characters distinguishing it from H. jenniae. Further research is necessary to improve our knowledge about the host and geographic distribution, health effects and phylogeny of H. jenniae and H. skuae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph E T Vanstreels
- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | | | | | - Carolina C Dos Anjos
- Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nola J Parsons
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David G Roberts
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Albert Snyman
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Renata Hurtado
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto Pasteur, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Katrin Ludynia
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Pierre A Pistorius
- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sgarioni AZ, Serafini PP, Pereira A, Emmerich T, Pontes TP, Ribeiro PR, Echenique J, Amorim DB, Klafke G, Reck J. A novel variant of Babesia sp. (Piroplasmida) as a hemoparasite in procellariiform seabirds. Parasitol Res 2023:10.1007/s00436-023-07894-4. [PMID: 37314510 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07894-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Procellariiformes includes pelagic seabirds that only use land for breeding; and also, these sites mostly occur in insular habitats. These peculiar habits make the investigation of hemoparasites a challenging issue. Thus, the data on the blood parasites of Procellariiformes are still scarce. In the order Piroplasmida, 16 species of Babesia have been described in terrestrial birds and seabirds. However, there is no register for Babesia spp. in procellariiform seabirds. Hence, the objective of this survey was to investigate the occurrence of Babesia spp. in these seabirds. A total of 220 tissue samples from 18 different seabird species were analyzed; the samples comprised blood and fragments of liver and spleen. The samples were obtained from live rescued animals and carcasses found along the southern coast of Brazil. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Only one blood sample yielded a positive result, from an adult female Thalassarche chlororhynchos (Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross). The sequence obtained showed the highest identity with sequences of Babesia spp. of birds from the South Pacific, and the isolate was named Babesia sp. strain Albatross. In the phylogenetic analysis, the sequence was grouped within the Babesia sensu stricto group, and further still into a subgroup including Babesia spp. of the Kiwiensis clade (parasites from birds). The phylogenetic analysis also showed that Babesia sp. strain Albatross clustered apart from the Peircei group, a clade that includes Babesia spp. from seabirds. As far as it is known, this is the first report of Babesia sp. in procellariiform seabirds. Babesia sp. strain Albatross may constitute a novel variant of tick-borne piroplasmids associated with the Procellariiformes order.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelise Zabel Sgarioni
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, RS, 92990-000, Brazil
| | - Patricia P Serafini
- Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Aves Silvestres (CEMAVE), Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBio), Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores de Contaminação Aquática e Imunoquímica (LABCAI), Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | | | - Tiffany Emmerich
- Unidade de Estabilização de Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale de Itajaí (UNIVALI), Penha, SC, Brazil
| | - Thamires P Pontes
- Unidade de Estabilização de Animais Marinhos, Universidade do Vale de Itajaí (UNIVALI), Penha, SC, Brazil
| | - Paula R Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Veterinária (FAVET), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Joanna Echenique
- Faculdade de Veterinária (FAVET), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Derek B Amorim
- Faculdade de Veterinária (FAVET), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Centro de Estudos Costeiros, Limnológicos e Marinhos (CECLIMAR), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Imbé, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, RS, 92990-000, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000, Eldorado do Sul, RS, 92990-000, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kleinschmidt B, Dorsch M, Heinänen S, Morkūnas J, Schumm YR, Žydelis R, Quillfeldt P. Prevalence of Haemosporidian Parasites in an Arctic Breeding Seabird Species-The Red-Throated Diver ( Gavia stellata). Microorganisms 2022; 10:2147. [PMID: 36363741 PMCID: PMC9698892 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Haemosporida, vector-transmitted blood parasites, can have various effects and may also exert selection pressures on their hosts. In this study we analyse the presence of Haemosporida in a previously unstudied migratory seabird species, the red-throated diver Gavia stellata. Red-throated divers were sampled during winter and spring in the eastern German Bight (North Sea). We used molecular methods and data from a related tracking study to reveal (i) if red-throated divers are infected with Haemosporida of the genera Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium and Haemoproteus, and (ii) how infection and prevalence are linked with the breeding regions of infected individuals. Divers in this study were assigned to western Palearctic breeding grounds, namely Greenland, Svalbard, Norway and Arctic Russia. We found a prevalence of Leucocytozoon of 11.0% in all birds sampled (n = 45), of 33.0% in birds breeding in Norway (n = 3) and of 8.3% in birds breeding in Arctic Russia (n = 25). For two birds that were infected no breeding regions could be assigned. We identified two previously unknown lineages, one each of Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon. Haemosporida have not been detected in birds from Greenland (n = 2) and Svalbard (n = 2). In summary, this study presents the first record of Haemosporida in red-throated divers and reports a new lineage of each, Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon GAVSTE01 and GAVSTE02, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Kleinschmidt
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- BioConsult SH, 25813 Husum, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Heinänen
- DHI, 2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
- Raasepori Campus (Raseborg), Novia University of Applied Sciences, Raseborgsvägen 9, 10600 Ekenäs, Finland
| | - Julius Morkūnas
- Marine Research Institute, Klaipėda University, 92294 Klaipėda, Lithuania
| | - Yvonne R. Schumm
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ramūnas Žydelis
- DHI, 2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
- Ornitela UAB, 03228 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Petra Quillfeldt
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
González-Olvera M, Hernandez-Colina A, Pérez JG, Ulloa GM, Montero S, Maguiña JL, Lescano AG, Santolalla ML, Baylis M, Mayor P. Haemosporidians from a Neglected Group of Terrestrial Wild Birds in the Peruvian Amazonia. ECOHEALTH 2022; 19:402-416. [PMID: 36030330 PMCID: PMC9573858 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-022-01612-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Haemosporidians are a widespread group of blood parasites transmitted by vectors. Despite their relevance for bird conservation, few studies have been conducted in the Amazonia and even less in terrestrial wild birds. We analysed blood samples from 168 game birds, collected from 2008 to 2015 by subsistence hunters of an indigenous rural community in the Peruvian Amazonia. DNA was tested for Haemoproteus spp., Plasmodium spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. and positive amplicons were sequenced and curated for phylogenetic analysis. Haemosporidian prevalence was 72% overall, 66.7% for Haemoproteus spp. and 5.4% for Plasmodium spp. and respectively by bird species: Spix's Guan (Penelope jacquacu, n = 72) 87.5% and 0%, Razor-billed Curassow (Mitu tuberosum, n = 45) 77.8% and 6.7%, White-winged Trumpeter (Psophia leucoptera, n = 20) 6.3% and 12.5%, Blue-throated Piping-guan (Pipile cumanensis, n = 16) 73.3% and 6.7%, and Great Tinamou (Tinamus major, n = 15) 10% and 15%. Leucocytozoon spp. was not found. P. leucoptera and T. major were less likely to be infected with Haemoproteus spp. Fruit abundance had a negative association with Haemoproteus spp. prevalence and precipitation was negatively associated with Plasmodium spp. prevalence. The 106 sequences examined represented 29 lineages, 82.8% of them were new lineages (Plasmodium n = 3, Haemoproteus n = 21). Novel host-parasite associations and lineages were unveiled, including probably new species of Plasmodium spp. Our results highlight the scientific value of alternative sampling methods and the collaboration with local communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merit González-Olvera
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, IC2 Liverpool Science Park, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Arturo Hernandez-Colina
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, IC2 Liverpool Science Park, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
- , Coventry, UK
| | - Jocelyn G Pérez
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, IC2 Liverpool Science Park, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Gabriela M Ulloa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Grupo Enfermedades Emergentes, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Stephanie Montero
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Jorge L Maguiña
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Andrés G Lescano
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Meddly L Santolalla
- Emerge, Emerging Diseases and Climate Change Research Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Matthew Baylis
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, IC2 Liverpool Science Park, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
- Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Pedro Mayor
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia (UFRA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Departamento de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
- ComFauna, Comunidad de Manejo de Fauna Silvestre en la Amazonía y en Latinoamérica, 332 Malecón Tarapacá, Iquitos, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Włodarczyk R, Bouwhuis S, Bichet C, Podlaszczuk P, Chyb A, Indykiewicz P, Dulisz B, Betleja J, Janiszewski T, Minias P. Contrasting haemoparasite prevalence in larid species with divergent ecological niches and migration patterns. Parasitology 2022; 149:1479-1486. [PMID: 35768413 PMCID: PMC11010501 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022000920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Haemoparasites represent a diverse group of vector-borne parasites that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts. In birds, haemoparasite infection rates may be associated with various ecological and life history traits, including habitat choice, colony size and migration distance. Here, we molecularly assessed the prevalence of 3 main haemoparasite genera (Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) in 2 bird species with different habitat preferences and migratory behaviour: black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and common terns (Sterna hirundo). We found that gulls showed a much higher prevalence and diversity of Plasmodium or Haemoproteus (ca. 60% of individuals infected) than terns (zero prevalence). The prevalence of Leucocytozoon was low in both species (<3%). The differences in haemoparasite prevalences may be primarily driven by varying vector encounter rate resulting from different habitat preferences, as black-headed gulls mainly use vector-rich vegetated freshwater habitats, whereas common terns often use vector-poor coastal and brackish habitats. Since common terns migrate further than black-headed gulls, our results did not provide support for an association between haemoparasite prevalence and migratory distance. In gulls, we found a negative association between colony size and infection rates, suggestive of an ideal despotic distribution, and phylogenetic analyses of detected haemoparasite lineages provided evidence for higher host specificity in Haemoproteus than Plasmodium. Our results suggest that the preference for coastal areas and less vegetated habitats in terns may reduce haemoparasite infection rates compared to other larids, regardless of their migratory distance, emphasizing the role of ecological niches in parasite exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radosław Włodarczyk
- Department of Biodiversity Studies and Bioeducation, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 1/3, 90-237 Łódź, Poland
| | | | - Coraline Bichet
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, UMR 7372, CNRS-La Rochelle Université, Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Patrycja Podlaszczuk
- Department of Biodiversity Studies and Bioeducation, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 1/3, 90-237 Łódź, Poland
| | - Amelia Chyb
- Department of Biodiversity Studies and Bioeducation, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 1/3, 90-237 Łódź, Poland
| | - Piotr Indykiewicz
- Department of Biology and Animal Environment, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Mazowiecka 28, 85-084 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Beata Dulisz
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Plac Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jacek Betleja
- Department of Natural History, Upper Silesian Museum, Plac Jana III Sobieskiego 2, 41-902 Bytom, Poland
| | - Tomasz Janiszewski
- Department of Biodiversity Studies and Bioeducation, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 1/3, 90-237 Łódź, Poland
| | - Piotr Minias
- Department of Biodiversity Studies and Bioeducation, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Banacha 1/3, 90-237 Łódź, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Seabirds Health and Conservation Medicine in Brazil. J Nat Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2022.126238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
10
|
Roldán-Zurabián F, José Ruiz-López M, de la Puente JM, Figuerola J, Drummond H, Ancona S. Apparent absence of avian malaria and malaria-like parasites in northern blue-footed boobies breeding on Isla Isabel. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6892. [PMID: 35477963 PMCID: PMC9046203 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11075-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemosporidian parasites are common in birds but are seldom reported in seabirds. The absence of vectors or genetic resistance to infection have been proposed to explain this pattern. However, screening of blood parasites in many seabirds has been done only by visual inspection of blood smears, which can miss low-intensity infections, and molecular detection of blood parasites must be supported by detection in blood smears to confirm the presence of haemosporidians and avoid false positive cases. Here, we tested for the presence of blood parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon, combining inspection of blood smears and PCR-based detection methods in a highly philopatric colony of blue-footed boobies (Sula nebouxii) in the Tropical North Pacific. Our results indicate that adults in this colony are likely free of these blood parasites, probably due to unsuitable conditions for insect vectors in booby breeding sites, although potential genetic resistance of blue-footed boobies to infection deserves examination. Apparent absence of blood parasites in Isla Isabel boobies indirectly adds to the growing evidence of variation in parasite infections among avian host species that coexist locally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Roldán-Zurabián
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, 04510, Mexico.,Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Mexico City, 09230, Mexico
| | - María José Ruiz-López
- Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), 41092, Sevilla, Spain.,Ciber de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josué Martínez de la Puente
- Universidad de Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.,Ciber de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Figuerola
- Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), 41092, Sevilla, Spain.,Ciber de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hugh Drummond
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, 04510, Mexico
| | - Sergio Ancona
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, 04510, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dunlop JA, Watson MJ. The hitchhiker's guide to Australian conservation: A parasitological perspective on fauna translocations. AUSTRAL ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Judy A. Dunlop
- School of Agriculture and Environment University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
- Western Australian Feral Cat Working Group Perth Western Australia Australia
- Institute for Land, Water & Society Charles Sturt University Albury New South Wales Australia
- Western Australian Biodiversity Science Institute 2/133 St George's Terrace Perth Western Australia 6000 Australia
| | - Maggie J. Watson
- Institute for Land, Water & Society Charles Sturt University Albury New South Wales Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Campbell K, Paparini A, Gomez AB, Cannell B, Stephens N. Fatal toxoplasmosis in Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor) from Penguin Island, Western Australia. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 17:211-217. [PMID: 35198375 PMCID: PMC8850582 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Routine post mortems of deceased penguins from Penguin Island, Western Australia, found that a temporal cluster of cases presented with characteristic gross and microscopic changes, namely birds in good body condition with hepatomegaly and splenomegaly, multifocal hepatic and splenic necrosis and numerous, 1–2 μm diameter protozoan parasites within the necrotic foci. Electron microscopy identified the protozoa as belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. Molecular investigations by PCR gave inconsistent results. PCR performed by an external laboratory identified a novel Haemoproteus spp. organism in samples from 4 of 10 cases from this group, while PCR at Murdoch University identified Toxoplasma gondii in 12 of 13 cases (including 9 of the 10 assayed at the external laboratory). Immunohistochemistry of formalin fixed tissues also identified Toxoplasma in the hepatic and splenic lesions. The distinctive mortalities which were observed in this group of penguins are attributed to a fulminant toxoplasmosis, with a concurrent Haemoproteus infection in some cases. Though the clinical signs of infection are unknown, the gross and microscopic appearance at post mortem is sufficiently characteristic to allow a diagnosis to be made on these features. Definitive confirmation of Toxoplasma infection can be made by immunohistochemistry or PCR. Deaths in Little Penguins were associated with necrosis in the liver and spleen. The necrotic lesions contained protozoa, free and in cysts. The protozoa were identified as Toxoplasma by PCR and immunohistochemistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kym Campbell
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Kensington, WA, Australia
- Corresponding author.
| | - Andrea Paparini
- Econumerics Consultants, Hilton, WA, Australia
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Adriana Botero Gomez
- Department of Diagnostic Genomics, Pathwest Laboratory Medicine, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Belinda Cannell
- Department of Diagnostic Genomics, Pathwest Laboratory Medicine, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, WA, Australia
| | - Nahiid Stephens
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Massive Infection of Lungs with Exo-Erythrocytic Meronts in European Robin Erithacus rubecula during Natural Haemoproteus attenuatus Haemoproteosis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113273. [PMID: 34828005 PMCID: PMC8614495 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Haemoproteus parasites are cosmopolitan bird pathogens belonging to the order Haemosporida (Apicomplexa). A majority of the described species are transmitted by Culicoides biting midges, which inject infective stages (sporozoites) in birds during blood meals. The sporozoites initiate tissue merogony, resulting in numerous merozoites, part of which penetrate red blood cells and produce blood stages (gametocytes), which are infective for vectors. The blood stages of Haemoproteus parasites have been relatively well-investigated, although tissue stages and patterns of their development remain unidentified in the majority of Haemoproteus species. Nevertheless, they often damage various organs which makes them important for bird health. This study contributes new knowledge about tissue merogony of Haemoproteus attenuatus, which parasitize birds of the Muscicapidae. Naturally infected European robins Erithacus rubecula were caught in Lithuania during autumnal migration. Parasites were identified using morphological features of gametocytes and DNA sequence analysis. Organs of infected birds were examined using histological methods. Tissue stages (meronts) were present only in the lungs, where they were numerous and markedly varied in shape, size and maturation stage. Description of meronts was provided and molecular phylogenetic analysis identified closely related lineages that could present similar exo-erythrocytic development in lungs. Lung damage caused by meronts of H. attenuatus and closely related lineages is worth attention due to their possible implications on a bird’s health. Abstract Haemoproteus species are widespread avian blood parasites belonging to Haemoproteidae (Haemosporida). Blood stages of these pathogens have been relatively well-investigated, though exo-erythrocytic (tissue) stages remain unidentified for the majority of species. However, recent histopathological studies show that haemoproteins markedly affect bird organs during tissue merogony. This study investigated the exo-erythrocytic development of Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) attenuatus (lineage hROBIN1), the common parasite of flycatchers (Muscicapidae). Naturally infected European robins Erithacus rubecula were examined. Parasite species and lineage were identified using microscopic examination of blood stages and DNA sequence analysis. Parasitaemia intensity varied between 0.8 and 26.5% in seven host individuals. Organs of infected birds were collected and processed for histological examination. Tissues stages (meronts) were seen in six birds and were present only in the lungs. The parasites were usually located in groups and were at different stages of maturation, indicating asynchronous exo-erythrocytic development. In most parasitized individuals, 100 meronts were observed in 1 cm2 section of lungs. The largest meronts reached 108 µm in length. Mature meronts contained numerous roundish merozoites of approximately 0.8 µm in diameter. Megalomeronts were not observed. Massive merogony and resulting damage of lungs is a characteristic feature during H. attenuatus infections and might occur in related parasite lineages, causing haemoproteosis.
Collapse
|
14
|
Bonsergent C, Vittecoq M, Leray C, Burkart L, McCoy KD, Malandrin L. Characterization and diversity of Babesia sp. YLG, a new member of the Peircei group infecting Mediterranean yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis). Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 13:101852. [PMID: 34717114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101852] [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: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Avian infecting piroplasms are largely under-studied compared to other hemoparasites, and this paucity of information has blurred our phylogenetic and biological comprehension of this important group as a whole. In the present study, we detected and characterized Babesia from yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) chicks from a colony in southern France. Based on morphological and molecular characterizations, a new Babesia species belonging to the Peircei group, a clade of avian-specific piroplasms, was identified. Due to the complexity of species delineations and the low number of parasites characterized in this clade to date, a species name was not yet attributed; we refer to it for now as Babesia sp. YLG (Yellow-Legged Gull). High prevalence (85% and 58% in 2019 and 2020, respectively) and high parasitemia (up to 20% of parasitized erythrocytes) were recorded in chicks, without any obvious clinical signs of infection. Although the 16 isolates examined had identical 18S rRNA gene sequences, six genetic variants were described based on partial cox1 sequencing, with evidence of chicks co-infected by two variants. Transmission of Babesia sp. YLG via the soft tick Ornithodoros maritimus is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marion Vittecoq
- Centre for Research on the Ecology and Evolution of Diseases (CREES), Montpellier, France; Tour du Valat, Research Institute for the Conservation of Mediterranean Wetlands, Arles, France
| | - Carole Leray
- Tour du Valat, Research Institute for the Conservation of Mediterranean Wetlands, Arles, France
| | - Louisiane Burkart
- Tour du Valat, Research Institute for the Conservation of Mediterranean Wetlands, Arles, France
| | - Karen D McCoy
- Centre for Research on the Ecology and Evolution of Diseases (CREES), Montpellier, France; MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier CNRS IRD, Centre IRD, Montpellier, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Duc M, Ilgūnas M, Kubiliūnaitė M, Valkiūnas G. First Report of Haemoproteus (Haemosporida, Haemoproteidae) Megalomeronts in the Brain of an Avian Host, with Description of Megalomerogony of Haemoproteus Pastoris, the Blood Parasite of the Common Starling. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102824. [PMID: 34679845 PMCID: PMC8532782 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Birds are hosts to diverse blood parasites belonging to many taxonomic groups. Among them, numerous haemosporidian parasites of the genus Haemoproteus are transmitted globally. These pathogens develop in the blood and internal organs of birds. The blood stages (gametocytes) are known for about 150 described species, but the tissues stages or exo-erythrocytic stages (meronts and megalomeronts) are known only fragmentarily for about 10% of the described species. Knowledge on merogony is important in avian medicine for better understanding of pathologies during haemoproteosis. This study reported and characterized the megalomeronts of Haemoproteus pastoris, a parasite of the widespread Common starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Parasites were identified using molecular and microscopy examination tools. Five individual naturally infected birds were sampled, and their organs were examined histologically. Megalomeronts were found in eight different organs. The parasites were described and illustrated. The largest megalomeront, of all observed forms and shapes, reached 800 μm in length. Importantly, Haemoproteus megalomeronts were reported in the brain of avian hosts for the first time, indicating non-described pathology during avian haemoproteosis. This study contributes to a better understanding of the life cycle of avian haemoproteids and opens new perspectives in pathology research during avian haemoproteosis, which is important for birds’ health. Abstract Species of Haemoproteus (Haemoproteidae, Haemosporida) are common bird pathogens. Recent molecular studies combined with histopathology research have reported development of megalomeronts of these parasites in various organs, sometimes resulting in the death of the avian host. Five Common starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) were found naturally infected with Haemoproteus pastoris lineage hLAMPUR01. The parasite was identified using microscopic examination of blood films and DNA sequences. Infected bird organs were investigated histologically for (i) the presence of exo-erythrocytic stages and (ii) the patterns of development (morphology and localization) in different host individuals. For the first time, megalomeronts of Haemoproteus parasites were seen developing in the brain, while numerous others at different stages of maturation were found in the intestine, pancreas, kidneys, lungs, esophagus, spleen, gizzard, and trachea. Megalomeronts were predominantly roundish or oval, up to 800 μm, they were surrounded by a capsular-like wall and developed asynchronously in the same bird individual. After megalomeront maturation and rupture, a massive infiltration of blood cells occurred, indicating the hemorrhagic processes. Review of available data showed that different Haemoproteus species produce markedly different megalomeronts, morphology of which can probably be predicted using phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of cytochrome b gene.
Collapse
|
16
|
Diaz E, Hidalgo A, Villamarin C, Donoso G, Barragan V. Vector-borne zoonotic blood parasites in wildlife from Ecuador: A report and systematic review. Vet World 2021; 14:1935-1945. [PMID: 34475720 PMCID: PMC8404139 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.1935-1945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Ecuador is a hugely diverse country, but information on infectious diseases in local wild animals is scarce. The aim of this study was to screen the presence of blood parasites in free-ranging wild animals admitted to the Wildlife Hospital at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, from April 2012 to January 2019. Materials and Methods: We identified blood parasites by microscopic observation of blood smears from free-ranging wildlife species that attended the Wildlife Hospital of Universidad San Francisco de Quito (Ecuador) from April 2012 to January 2019. Results: The microscopic evaluations of animals as potential reservoirs for vector-borne zoonotic blood parasites revealed the presence of Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon spp., microfilaria, Mycoplasma spp., and Trypanosoma spp. in previously unreported wildlife species. In addition, we performed a systematic review to understand the current knowledge gaps in the context of these findings. Conclusion: Our data contribute to the knowledge of blood parasites in wildlife from Ecuador. Furthermore, the potential transmission of these parasites to humans and domestic animals, current anthropogenic environmental changes in the region, and the lack of information on this suggest the importance of our results and warrant further investigations on infectious diseases in animals and humans and their relationship with environmental health as key domains of the One Health concept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Diaz
- Escuela de Veterinaria, Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Anahi Hidalgo
- Escuela de Veterinaria, Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Carla Villamarin
- Colegio de Ciencias Biologicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiologia, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Gustavo Donoso
- Escuela de Veterinaria, Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Veronica Barragan
- Colegio de Ciencias Biologicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiologia, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador.,Department of Biological Science, Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hubálek Z. Pathogenic microorganisms associated with gulls and terns (Laridae). JOURNAL OF VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.25225/jvb.21009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zdeněk Hubálek
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic; e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Prevalence and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in wild bird species of the order Columbiformes. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1405-1420. [PMID: 33521839 PMCID: PMC7940316 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07053-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Diseases can play a role in species decline. Among them, haemosporidian parasites, vector-transmitted protozoan parasites, are known to constitute a risk for different avian species. However, the magnitude of haemosporidian infection in wild columbiform birds, including strongly decreasing European turtle doves, is largely unknown. We examined the prevalence and diversity of haemosporidian parasites Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and subgenera Haemoproteus and Parahaemoproteus in six species of the order Columbiformes during breeding season and migration by applying nested PCR, one-step multiplex PCR assay and microscopy. We detected infections in 109 of the 259 screened individuals (42%), including 15 distinct haemosporidian mitochondrial cytochrome b lineages, representing five H. (Haemoproteus), two H. (Parahaemoproteus), five Leucocytozoon and three Plasmodium lineages. Five of these lineages have never been described before. We discriminated between single and mixed infections and determined host species-specific prevalence for each parasite genus. Observed differences among sampled host species are discussed with reference to behavioural characteristics, including nesting and migration strategy. Our results support previous suggestions that migratory birds have a higher prevalence and diversity of blood parasites than resident or short-distance migratory species. A phylogenetic reconstruction provided evidence for H. (Haemoproteus) as well as H. (Parahaemoproteus) infections in columbiform birds. Based on microscopic examination, we quantified parasitemia, indicating the probability of negative effects on the host. This study provides a large-scale baseline description of haemosporidian infections of wild birds belonging to the order Columbiformes sampled in the northern hemisphere. The results enable the monitoring of future changes in parasite transmission areas, distribution and diversity associated with global change, posing a potential risk for declining avian species as the European turtle dove.
Collapse
|
19
|
Meister SL, Richard OK, Hoby S, Gurtner C, Basso WU. Fatal avian malaria in captive Atlantic puffins ( Fratercula arctica) in Switzerland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 14:97-106. [PMID: 33552896 PMCID: PMC7848291 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Avian malaria is a vector-borne disease caused by Plasmodium species, which may affect a broad spectrum of bird families worldwide. In most endemic and migratory birds, Plasmodium infections seem not to cause severe harm; however, non-indigenous species kept in human care such as penguins may experience high morbidity and mortality rates. Fatal avian malaria may also occur in other non-native seabirds such as puffins (Fratercula spp.), but reported cases are scarce. The aim of this study was to analyze seven cases of sudden death in captive Atlantic puffins (Fratercula arctica) at Berne Animal Park in Switzerland between 2010 and 2020, and to determine the involvement of haemosporidian parasites in the fatal outcome. In all cases, lymphoplasmacytic inflammation, necrotic lesions in several organs and presence of protozoan stages within tissues/erythrocytes or accumulation of iron-based pigment were observed histologically. A one-step multiplex PCR designed to simultaneously detect and discriminate haemosporidia belonging to the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon, and a nested PCR detecting Plasmodium and Haemoproteus infections were performed on DNA extracted from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) or fresh liver and spleen tissues from five and two birds, respectively. Plasmodium spp. DNA was detected in the tissues from six of seven birds by the one-step multiplex PCR and in five of seven individuals by the nested PCR protocol. Direct sequencing of the amplification products allowed the molecular identification of Plasmodium relictum SGS1 as the involved species in three individuals and Plasmodium matutinum LINN1 in two of these fatal cases. In one bird, no haemosporidian DNA could be amplified from FFPE tissues despite of suggestive histopathological findings. These results indicate that avian malaria represents an important cause of death in captive puffins and it should be considered as a differential diagnosis in unclear or fatal cases in this threatened bird species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seraina L Meister
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Olivia K Richard
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Hoby
- Berne Animal Park, Tierparkweg 1, CH-3005, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Corinne Gurtner
- Institute of Animal Pathology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Walter U Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
van Hoesel W, Santiago-Alarcon D, Marzal A, Renner SC. Effects of forest structure on the interaction between avian hosts, dipteran vectors and haemosporidian parasites. BMC Ecol 2020; 20:47. [PMID: 32814584 PMCID: PMC7437053 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-020-00315-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Forest habitats are important biodiversity refuges for a wide variety of bird species. Parasitism may modulate host species presence and abundance, and parasite effects can change according to forest management practices. Such processes are not well studied in vector-borne avian haemosporidians. We analyzed the effects of forest management on bird-dipteran-haemosporidian interactions, using seven common bird species in managed and unmanaged beech forest habitats in northeastern Germany. We assumed that forest structural heterogeneity affects parasite population parameters in avian hosts (i.e., prevalence and parasitemia), through its effect on the condition of the avian host but also through varying vector abundances. Results Parasite prevalence was high (about 80%) and homogeneous across different beech forest categories (i.e., young, old, unmanaged) and for all bird species, except Erithacus rubecula (35%). Parasitemia varied across bird species but not across forest categories within each avian species (lowest parasitemia were found in E. rubecula, Turdus merula, and Turdus philomelos). In our study system, we found that vector abundance was not the main driver of parasite dynamics. We found that forest structure affects parasite infection probability directly and potentially host condition via available resources that have to be used either to combat infections (i.e., high parasitemia) or to maintain a good body condition. Conclusions The effects of each of the predictors were bird species-specific, and we found that Diptera vectors were not the foremost influence in our host-vector-parasite system. Effects of forest habitat variables indicated that for most bird species in this study, habitat regulation of infection probability was more likely (i.e., E. rubecula, Fringilla coelebs, Sylvia atricapilla), whereas for Parus major habitat characteristics impacted first individuals' body condition and subsequently the probability of infection. Our findings emphasize the need of species-specific analyses and to use continuous forest structural parameters (e.g., the proportion of gap, south facing aspect) to better understand habitat and land use effects on host-vector-parasite dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willem van Hoesel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Gregor-Mendel Straße 33, 1180, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Diego Santiago-Alarcon
- Instituto de Ecología, Red de Biología Y Conservación de Vertebrados, Coatepec 351 El Haya, 91070, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Alfonso Marzal
- Department of Zoology, University of Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, 06006, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Swen C Renner
- Institute of Zoology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Gregor-Mendel Straße 33, 1180, Vienna, Austria.,Ornithology, Natural History Museum Vienna, Burggasse 7, 1010, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Carravieri A, Burthe SJ, de la Vega C, Yonehara Y, Daunt F, Newell MA, Jeffreys RM, Lawlor AJ, Hunt A, Shore RF, Pereira MG, Green JA. Interactions between Environmental Contaminants and Gastrointestinal Parasites: Novel Insights from an Integrative Approach in a Marine Predator. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:8938-8948. [PMID: 32551599 PMCID: PMC7467638 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants and parasites are ubiquitous stressors that can affect animal physiology and derive from similar dietary sources (co-exposure). To unravel their interactions in wildlife, it is thus essential to quantify their concurring drivers. Here, the relationship between blood contaminant residues (11 trace elements and 17 perfluoroalkyl substances) and nonlethally quantified gastrointestinal parasite loads was tested while accounting for intrinsic (sex, age, and mass) and extrinsic factors (trophic ecology inferred from stable isotope analyses and biologging) in European shags Phalacrocorax aristotelis. Shags had high mercury (range 0.65-3.21 μg g-1 wet weight, ww) and extremely high perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) residues (3.46-53 and 4.48-44 ng g-1 ww, respectively). Males had higher concentrations of arsenic, mercury, PFOA, and PFNA than females, while the opposite was true for selenium, perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA), and perfluooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). Individual parasite loads (Contracaecum rudolphii) were higher in males than in females. Females targeted pelagic-feeding prey, while males relied on both pelagic- and benthic-feeding organisms. Parasite loads were not related to trophic ecology in either sex, suggesting no substantial dietary co-exposure with contaminants. In females, parasite loads increased strongly with decreasing selenium:mercury molar ratios. Females may be more susceptible to the interactive effects of contaminants and parasites on physiology, with potential fitness consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Carravieri
- School
of Environmental Sciences, University of
Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GP, U.K.
- ,
| | - Sarah J. Burthe
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik EH26 0QB, U.K.
| | - Camille de la Vega
- School
of Environmental Sciences, University of
Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GP, U.K.
| | - Yoshinari Yonehara
- Atmosphere
and Ocean Research Institute, University
of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Francis Daunt
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik EH26 0QB, U.K.
| | - Mark A. Newell
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik EH26 0QB, U.K.
| | - Rachel M. Jeffreys
- School
of Environmental Sciences, University of
Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GP, U.K.
| | - Alan J. Lawlor
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster
Environment Centre, Library
Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, U.K
| | - Alexander Hunt
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster
Environment Centre, Library
Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, U.K
| | - Richard F. Shore
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster
Environment Centre, Library
Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, U.K
| | - M. Glória Pereira
- UK
Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster
Environment Centre, Library
Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, U.K
| | - Jonathan A. Green
- School
of Environmental Sciences, University of
Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GP, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Inumaru M, Aratani S, Shimizu M, Yamamoto M, Sato Y, Murata K, Valkiūnas G. Penguins are competent hosts of Haemoproteus parasites: the first detection of gametocytes, with molecular characterization of Haemoproteus larae. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:307. [PMID: 32532316 PMCID: PMC7291633 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04176-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The majority of penguins (Sphenisciformes) have evolved in areas with weak or absent transmission of haemosporidian parasites and are usually naïve to avian haemosporidian infections. Plasmodium parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes, and lethal avian malaria has been often reported in captive penguins in many countries. The related haemosporidian parasites belonging to Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon have also been detected in penguins but less often than Plasmodium infections. The majority of Haemoproteus infection reports in penguins are based solely on PCR-based diagnostics. It remains unclear if haemoproteids can complete their life-cycle and produce infective stages (gametocytes) in penguins or whether these infections are abortive in penguins, and thus dead ends for transmission. In other words, it remains unknown if penguins are competent hosts for Haemoproteus parasites, which cause disease in non-adapted birds. Methods Two captive African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) and two Magellanic penguins (S. magellanicus) were found to be positive for Haemoproteus infection in two open-air aquariums in Japan, and the parasites were investigated using both PCR-based testing and microscopical examination of blood films. Samples from a black-tailed gull (Larus crassirostris) and previously tested gulls were used for comparison. Results The lineage hSPMAG12 was detected, and gametocytes of Haemoproteus sp. were seen in the examined penguins and gull. Observed gametocytes were indistinguishable from those of Haemoproteus larae, which naturally parasitize birds of the genus Larus (Laridae). The detected sequence information and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis supported this conclusion. Additionally, morphologically similar gametocytes and closely related DNA sequences were also found in other gull species in Japan. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial cytb sequences placed the lineage hSPMAG12 of H. larae within the clade of avian haemoproteids which belong to the subgenus Parahaemoproteus, indicating that Culicoides biting midges likely transmit the parasites between penguins and gulls. Conclusions This study shows that some species of Haemoproteus parasites complete their development and produce gametocytes in penguins, which may be source of infection for biting midges transmitting haemoproteosis. To prevent haemosporidiosis in zoos, we call for control not only of mosquitoes, but also biting midges.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mizue Inumaru
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Shiori Aratani
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Misa Shimizu
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Mineka Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Yukita Sato
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan.
| | - Koichi Murata
- Laboratory of Wildlife Science, Department of Animal Science and Resources, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cuevas E, Vianna JA, Botero-Delgadillo E, Doussang D, González-Acuña D, Barroso O, Rozzi R, Vásquez RA, Quirici V. Latitudinal gradients of haemosporidian parasites: Prevalence, diversity and drivers of infection in the Thorn-tailed Rayadito ( Aphrastura spinicauda). Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2020; 11:1-11. [PMID: 31879589 PMCID: PMC6920315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Latitudinal gradients are well-suited systems that may be helpful explaining distribution of haemosporidian parasites and host susceptibility. We studied the prevalence, diversity and drivers of haemosporidian parasites (Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) along a latitudinal gradient (30°-56° S), that encompass the total distribution (~3,000 km) of the Thorn-tailed Rayadito (Aphrastura spinicauda) in the South American temperate forests from Chile. We analyzed 516 individuals from 18 localities between 2010 and 2017 and observed an overall prevalence of 28.3% for haemosporidian parasites. Leucocytozoon was the most prevalent parasite (25.8%). We recorded 19 distinct lineages (13 for Leucocytozoon, five for Plasmodium, and one for Haemoproteus). Differences in haemosporidian prevalence and diversity by genus and type of habitat were observed in the latitudinal gradient. Further, we support the existence of a latitudinal associate distribution of Leucocytozoids in South America, where prevalence and diversity increase toward higher latitudes. Distribution of Leucocytozoon was associated with sub-antarctic habitat (higher latitude) and explained by cold temperature and high precipitation. On the other hand, we lacked to find a latitudinal associate pattern for Plasmodium and Haemoproteus, however low prevalence and high diversity were recorded in areas considered as a hotspot of biodiversity in Central Chile. Our findings confirmed the importance of habitat and climatic variables explaining prevalence, diversity and distribution of haemosporidian parasites in a huge latitudinal gradient, belonging the distribution of the Thorn-tailed Rayadito in the world's southernmost forests ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elfego Cuevas
- Programa de Doctorado en Medicina de la Conservación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad (CIS), Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juliana A. Vianna
- Departamento de Ecosistemas y Medio Ambiente, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Esteban Botero-Delgadillo
- Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- SELVA: Research for Conservation in the Neotropics, Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Behavioral Ecology and Evolutionary Genetics, Max Plank Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany
| | - Daniela Doussang
- Laboratorio de Parásitos y Enfermedades de Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Viña Del Mar, Chile
| | - Daniel González-Acuña
- Laboratorio de Parásitos y Enfermedades de Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Omar Barroso
- Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Parque Etnobotánico Omora, Universidad de Magallanes, Puerto Williams, Chile
| | - Ricardo Rozzi
- Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Parque Etnobotánico Omora, Universidad de Magallanes, Puerto Williams, Chile
| | - Rodrigo A. Vásquez
- Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Verónica Quirici
- Centro de Investigación para la Sustentabilidad (CIS), Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Ecología y Biodiversidad, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Khan JS, Provencher JF, Forbes MR, Mallory ML, Lebarbenchon C, McCoy KD. Parasites of seabirds: A survey of effects and ecological implications. ADVANCES IN MARINE BIOLOGY 2019; 82:1-50. [PMID: 31229148 PMCID: PMC7172769 DOI: 10.1016/bs.amb.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Parasites are ubiquitous in the environment, and can cause negative effects in their host species. Importantly, seabirds can be long-lived and cross multiple continents within a single annual cycle, thus their exposure to parasites may be greater than other taxa. With changing climatic conditions expected to influence parasite distribution and abundance, understanding current level of infection, transmission pathways and population-level impacts are integral aspects for predicting ecosystem changes, and how climate change will affect seabird species. In particular, a range of micro- and macro-parasites can affect seabird species, including ticks, mites, helminths, viruses and bacteria in gulls, terns, skimmers, skuas, auks and selected phalaropes (Charadriiformes), tropicbirds (Phaethontiformes), penguins (Sphenisciformes), tubenoses (Procellariiformes), cormorants, frigatebirds, boobies, gannets (Suliformes), and pelicans (Pelecaniformes) and marine seaducks and loons (Anseriformes and Gaviiformes). We found that the seabird orders of Charadriiformes and Procellariiformes were most represented in the parasite-seabird literature. While negative effects were reported in seabirds associated with all the parasite groups, most effects have been studied in adults with less information known about how parasites may affect chicks and fledglings. We found studies most often reported on negative effects in seabird hosts during the breeding season, although this is also the time when most seabird research occurs. Many studies report that external factors such as condition of the host, pollution, and environmental conditions can influence the effects of parasites, thus cumulative effects likely play a large role in how parasites influence seabirds at both the individual and population level. With an increased understanding of parasite-host dynamics it is clear that major environmental changes, often those associated with human activities, can directly or indirectly affect the distribution, abundance, or virulence of parasites and pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junaid S Khan
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, QC, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, QC, Canada.
| | - Mark R Forbes
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - Camille Lebarbenchon
- Université de La Réunion, UMR Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, GIP CYROI, Saint Denis, La Réunion, France
| | - Karen D McCoy
- MIVEGEC, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-University of Montpellier, Centre IRD, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Parasite diversity associated with African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) and the effect of host and environmental factors. Parasitology 2019; 146:791-804. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018002159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) is a critically endangered species endemic to southern Africa. Limited information is available on the parasite diversity associated with the species in natural settings. This study explores the diversity and incidence of parasites associated with African penguins and their nests, and records the effect of host and environmental factors on parasite infestation. Ecto-, haemo- and helminth parasites were recorded from 210 adult birds, 583 chicks and 628 nests across five colonies (two mainland and three islands) along the south-western coast of South Africa, in 2016 and 2017. Mean nest density (total and active nests) and climate variables (temperature and precipitation) were obtained for each colony. Parapsyllus humboldti was the most abundant and prevalent ectoparasite on penguins and in nests (69.10 and 57.80%, respectively), while Piroplasmorida/Haemospororida (33.51%) and Cardiocephaloides spp. (56.17%) were the most prevalent haemo- and helminth parasites of penguins, respectively. In general parasite abundance and prevalence was significantly affected by penguin age (chicks vs adults), location (mainland vs islands), nest density (total and active nests) and season (spring vs autumn/winter). It is concluded that parasite infestations are structured and that penguin chicks at mainland colonies are more susceptible to parasite infestations during spring.
Collapse
|
26
|
Pedro R, Claudio N, Elena C, Claudio V. Low occurrence of hemosporidian parasites in the Neotropic cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) in Chile. Parasitol Res 2018; 118:325-333. [PMID: 30448937 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6146-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Hemosporidian parasites rarely infect aquatic birds. Few studies have been conducted in South America identifying some lineages of the genera Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon, and Haemoproteus, but none has been done in the Neotropic cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus). This species is widely distributed through the American continent, from Southern USA to Tierra del Fuego, using a wide range of aquatic habitats. We molecularly studied the occurrence and diversity of hemosporidian lineages infecting individuals of Neotropic cormorant across a broad latitudinal gradient in Chile (Arica to Tierra del Fuego). As expected, a very low occurrence of individuals infected by Plasmodium sp. (4/123, 3.3%) and Leucocytozoon sp. (2/123, 1.6%) was detected. We found no evidence of Haemoproteus sp. We identified one lineage of Plasmodium (ZEMAC01) and one new lineage of Leucocytozoon (PHABRA01) infecting cormorants. Individuals infected by Plasmodium sp. were birds from only one site (i.e., Chillán), whereas Leucocytozoon sp. was found in one bird from Valdivia and another one from Tierra del Fuego. Our results expand the known range of hemosporidian parasite lineages in aquatic birds providing an essential baseline data that contribute to a better understanding of the geographic range of hemosporidian parasites infecting Phalacrocoracidae in South America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigues Pedro
- Instituto de Patología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Navarrete Claudio
- Instituto de Patología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Campos Elena
- Instituto de Patología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Verdugo Claudio
- Instituto de Patología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile. .,Programa de Investigación Aplicada en Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Masello JF, Martínez J, Calderón L, Wink M, Quillfeldt P, Sanz V, Theuerkauf J, Ortiz-Catedral L, Berkunsky I, Brunton D, Díaz-Luque JA, Hauber ME, Ojeda V, Barnaud A, Casalins L, Jackson B, Mijares A, Rosales R, Seixas G, Serafini P, Silva-Iturriza A, Sipinski E, Vásquez RA, Widmann P, Widmann I, Merino S. Can the intake of antiparasitic secondary metabolites explain the low prevalence of hemoparasites among wild Psittaciformes? Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:357. [PMID: 29921331 PMCID: PMC6008929 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2940-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parasites can exert selection pressure on their hosts through effects on survival, on reproductive success, on sexually selected ornament, with important ecological and evolutionary consequences, such as changes in population viability. Consequently, hemoparasites have become the focus of recent avian studies. Infection varies significantly among taxa. Various factors might explain the differences in infection among taxa, including habitat, climate, host density, the presence of vectors, life history and immune defence. Feeding behaviour can also be relevant both through increased exposure to vectors and consumption of secondary metabolites with preventative or therapeutic effects that can reduce parasite load. However, the latter has been little investigated. Psittaciformes (parrots and cockatoos) are a good model to investigate these topics, as they are known to use biological control against ectoparasites and to feed on toxic food. We investigated the presence of avian malaria parasites (Plasmodium), intracellular haemosporidians (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon), unicellular flagellate protozoans (Trypanosoma) and microfilariae in 19 Psittaciformes species from a range of habitats in the Indo-Malayan, Australasian and Neotropical regions. We gathered additional data on hemoparasites in wild Psittaciformes from the literature. We considered factors that may control the presence of hemoparasites in the Psittaciformes, compiling information on diet, habitat, and climate. Furthermore, we investigated the role of diet in providing antiparasitic secondary metabolites that could be used as self-medication to reduce parasite load. Results We found hemoparasites in only two of 19 species sampled. Among them, all species that consume at least one food item known for its secondary metabolites with antimalarial, trypanocidal or general antiparasitic properties, were free from hemoparasites. In contrast, the infected parrots do not consume food items with antimalarial or even general antiparasitic properties. We found that the two infected species in this study consumed omnivorous diets. When we combined our data with data from studies previously investigating blood parasites in wild parrots, the positive relationship between omnivorous diets and hemoparasite infestation was confirmed. Individuals from open habitats were less infected than those from forests. Conclusions The consumption of food items known for their secondary metabolites with antimalarial, trypanocidal or general antiparasitic properties, as well as the higher proportion of infected species among omnivorous parrots, could explain the low prevalence of hemoparasites reported in many vertebrates. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2940-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Masello
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus-Liebig Universität Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Gießen, Germany.
| | - Javier Martínez
- Departamento de Biomedicina y Biotecnologıía, Area Parasitologıía, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), NII Km 33.600, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luciano Calderón
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus-Liebig Universität Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Gießen, Germany
| | - Michael Wink
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, INF 364, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Quillfeldt
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus-Liebig Universität Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26, D-35392, Gießen, Germany
| | - Virginia Sanz
- Centro de Ecología, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas, Altos de Pipe, Venezuela
| | - Jörn Theuerkauf
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wilcza 64, 00-679, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Luis Ortiz-Catedral
- Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Igor Berkunsky
- Instituto Multidisciplinario sobre Ecosistemas y Desarrollo Sustentable, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Dianne Brunton
- Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - José A Díaz-Luque
- Fundación para la Investigación y la Conservación de los Loros en Bolivia (CLB), Avenida Francisco Mora, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.,Centro de Conservación de Loros Silvestres (CREA), Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
| | - Mark E Hauber
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Valeria Ojeda
- ZoologyDepartment (CRUB-UNCo), INIBIOMA (Universidad Nacional del Comahue-CONICET), 8400, Bariloche, Argentina
| | - Antoine Barnaud
- Province des Iles Loyauté, Direction du Développement Economique, BP 50 98820, Wé, Lifou, New Caledonia
| | - Laura Casalins
- ZoologyDepartment (CRUB-UNCo), INIBIOMA (Universidad Nacional del Comahue-CONICET), 8400, Bariloche, Argentina
| | - Bethany Jackson
- Auckland Zoological Park, Motions Road, Western Springs, Auckland, 1022, New Zealand.,School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Alfredo Mijares
- Centro de Bioquímica y Biofísica, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas, Altos de Pipe, Venezuela
| | - Romel Rosales
- Centro de Bioquímica y Biofísica, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas, Altos de Pipe, Venezuela
| | - Gláucia Seixas
- Projeto Papagaio-verdadeiro, Fundação Neotropica do Brasil, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Patricia Serafini
- Base Multifuncional do CEMAVE em Florianópolis/SC, Estação Ecológica Carijós - ICMBio, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Adriana Silva-Iturriza
- Centro de Bioquímica y Biofísica, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas, Altos de Pipe, Venezuela
| | - Elenise Sipinski
- Projeto de Conservação do papagaio-de-cara-roxa, SPVS - Sociedade de Pesquisa em Vida Selvagem e Educação Ambiental, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo A Vásquez
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Peter Widmann
- Katala Foundation, Inc., Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines
| | - Indira Widmann
- Katala Foundation, Inc., Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines
| | - Santiago Merino
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
NOURANI L, ALIABADIAN M, DINPARAST DJADID N, MIRSHAMSI O. Occurrence of Haemoproteus spp. (Haemosporida: Haemoproteidae) in New Host Records of Passerine Birds from the East of Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2018; 13:267-274. [PMID: 30069211 PMCID: PMC6068377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avian haemosporidians are able to parasitize numerous bird species all over the world. The extensive range of blood parasites infection rate is between 50% and 100% or less percentage. Haemoparasites with major effects on physiology, ecology, health, population dynamics, sexual selection and production success of avian hosts may promote species extinction. METHODS To evaluate haemosporidians infection rate in Iranian birds, 136 individuals were examined by microscopic observation of stained blood smears under light microscope. These samples belonged to 10 different families of Songbirds from the east of Iran from April to August 2014-2016. RESULTS Fifty-one passerine birds were detected as harboring Haemoproteus spp. Furthermore, we recorded Haemoproteus spp. infection of Granativora bruniceps, Oenanthe pleschanka for the first time in the world and eight more species for Iran. CONCLUSION Age and sampling localities do not influence the infection rate of Haemoproteus spp. from the eastern provinces of Iran. The relative high infection of avian haematozoa revealed this region might provide suitable sites for future studies on these parasites and the relationship with their hosts and vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila NOURANI
- Dept. of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansour ALIABADIAN
- Dept. of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, Research Department of Zoological Innovations, Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran,Correspondence
| | - Navid DINPARAST DJADID
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid MIRSHAMSI
- Dept. of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, Research Department of Zoological Innovations, Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Llanos S, Suazo CG, Quillfeldt P, Cursach JA, Salas LM. Ectoparasite abundance and apparent absence of hemoparasites in two albatross species in Sub-Antarctic Chile. Polar Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-017-2177-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
30
|
Campioni L, Martínez-de la Puente J, Figuerola J, Granadeiro JP, Silva MC, Catry P. Absence of haemosporidian parasite infections in the long-lived Cory’s shearwater: evidence from molecular analyses and review of the literature. Parasitol Res 2017; 117:323-329. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5676-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
31
|
Inumaru M, Murata K, Sato Y. Prevalence of avian haemosporidia among injured wild birds in Tokyo and environs, Japan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2017; 6:299-309. [PMID: 28971016 PMCID: PMC5614597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidia have been reported in various birds of Japan, which is part of the East Asian-Australian flyway and is an important stopover site for migratory birds potentially carrying new pathogens from other areas. We investigated the prevalence of avian malaria in injured wild birds, rescued in Tokyo and surrounding areas. We also evaluated the effects of migration by examining the prevalence of avian malaria for each migratory status. 475 birds of 80 species were sampled from four facilities. All samples were examined for haemosporidian infection via nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the cytochrome b (cytb) gene. 100 birds (21.1%) of 43 species were PCR positive for avian haemosporidia. Prevalence in wintering birds, migratory breeders, and resident birds was 46.0%, 19.3%, 17.3% respectively. There was a bias in wintering birds due to Eurasian coot (Fulica atra) and Anseriformes. In wintering birds, lineages which are likely to be transmitted by Culiseta sp. in Northern Japan and lineages from resident species of Northern Japan or continental Asia were found, suggesting that wintering birds are mainly infected at their breeding sites. Meanwhile, there were numerous lineages found from resident and migratory breeders, suggesting that they are transmitted in Japan, some possibly unique to Japan. Although there are limits in studying rescued birds, rehabilitation facilities make sampling of difficult-to-catch migratory species possible and also allow for long-term monitoring within areas. Prevalence of avian malaria in rescued wild birds in Japan has been demonstrated. Many new lineages have been identified, including possibly unique to Japan. Rehabilitation facilities allow sampling and monitoring of wild birds possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mizue Inumaru
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa 252-0880, Japan
| | - Koichi Murata
- Laboratory of Wildlife Science, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa 252-0880, Japan
| | - Yukita Sato
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa 252-0880, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sijbranda DC, Hunter S, Howe L, Lenting B, Argilla L, Gartrell BD. Cases of mortality in little penguins (Eudyptula minor) in New Zealand associated with avian malaria. N Z Vet J 2017; 65:332-337. [PMID: 28738733 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2017.1359124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
CASE HISTORY A little penguin (Eudyptula minor) of wild origin, in captivity at Wellington Zoo, became inappetent and lethargic in March 2013. Despite supportive care in the zoo's wildlife hospital, the bird died within 24 hours. CLINICAL FINDINGS Weight loss, dehydration, pale mucous membranes, weakness, increased respiratory effort and biliverdinuria were apparent on physical examination. Microscopic evaluation of blood smears revealed intra-erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium spp. and a regenerative reticulocytosis in the absence of anaemia. PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS Post-mortem findings included reduced body condition, dehydration, pulmonary congestion and oedema, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, hydropericardium and subcutaneous oedema. Histopathological findings included protozoal organisms in sections of lung, liver and spleen. A marked, diffuse, sub-acute interstitial histiocytic pneumonia was present. Accumulation of haemosiderin was noted in the Kupffer cells of the liver and in histiocytic-type cells in the spleen. MOLECULAR TESTING DNA was extracted from frozen portions of the liver. Nested PCR results and DNA sequencing confirmed infection of the deceased little penguin with Plasmodium (Huffia) elongatum lineage GRW06. DIAGNOSIS Avian malaria due to Plasmodium (Huffia) elongatum GRW06 RETROSPECTIVE INVESTIGATION A retrospective analysis of 294 little penguin cases in the Massey University post-mortem database revealed three other potential avian malaria cases. Analysis of archived tissues using a nested PCR for Plasmodium spp. followed by DNA sequencing revealed that a little penguin which died at Auckland Zoo was infected with P. elongatum GRW06 and two wild little penguins found dead on New Zealand beaches were infected with P. relictum SGS1 and Plasmodium. sp. lineage LINN1. Therefore, the overall frequency of deaths in little penguins associated with avian malaria was 4/295 (1.36%). CLINICAL RELEVANCE Our results suggest that avian malaria is associated with sporadic mortality in New Zealand's little penguins both in the wild and in captivity, but there is no evidence of mass mortality events due to Plasmodium spp. infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D C Sijbranda
- a Wildbase, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences , Massey University , Tennent Drive, Palmerston North , New Zealand
| | - S Hunter
- a Wildbase, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences , Massey University , Tennent Drive, Palmerston North , New Zealand
| | - L Howe
- a Wildbase, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences , Massey University , Tennent Drive, Palmerston North , New Zealand
| | - B Lenting
- b The Nest Te Kohanga, Wellington Zoo , 200 Daniell Street, Wellington , New Zealand
| | - L Argilla
- c Avian and Wildlife Health Consultancy Services , 175 The Ridgeway, Kingston, Wellington
| | - B D Gartrell
- a Wildbase, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences , Massey University , Tennent Drive, Palmerston North , New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ruiz-Rodríguez M, Møller AP, Mousseau TA, Soler JJ. Capacity of blood plasma is higher in birds breeding in radioactively contaminated areas. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179209. [PMID: 28662048 PMCID: PMC5490992 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Environmental pollution in general, and radioactive contamination in particular, may deeply affect host-parasite relationships and their consequences for the evolution of organisms. The nuclear accident that occurred more than 30 years ago in Chernobyl resulted in significant changes in diversity and richness of microbial communities that could influence characteristics of animal-bacteria interactions, including host immune responses and competitive interference by bacteria. Given the high mortality rate of birds breeding in radioactively contaminated zones, those with stronger defences against infections should experience significant fitness advantages. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we characterized antimicrobial capacity of barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) from different Ukrainian populations (subject to a gradient of ionizing radiation) against 12 bacterial species. We also quantified constitutive innate immunity, which is the non-specific first barrier of protection of hosts against microbial parasites. We found a positive association between specific antimicrobial capacity of individual hosts and radiation levels in breeding habitats even after controlling for other confounding variables such as sex and age. However, no significant relationship was found between immunocompetence (non-specific response) and background radiation. Conclusions/Significance These results suggest that radiation selects for broad antimicrobial spectra of barn swallows, although not for all bacterial strains. We discuss these results in the framework of host-parasite evolution under extreme environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Ruiz-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y Evolutiva, Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, CSIC, La Cañada de San Urbano, Almería, Spain
- Ecologie Systématique Evolution, CNRS, Université Paris-Sud, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Anders P. Møller
- Ecologie Systématique Evolution, CNRS, Université Paris-Sud, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Timothy A. Mousseau
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Juan J. Soler
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y Evolutiva, Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, CSIC, La Cañada de San Urbano, Almería, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Grilo ML, Vanstreels RET, Wallace R, García-Párraga D, Braga ÉM, Chitty J, Catão-Dias JL, Madeira de Carvalho LM. Malaria in penguins - current perceptions. Avian Pathol 2017; 45:393-407. [PMID: 27009571 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2016.1149145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Avian malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by protozoans of the genus Plasmodium, and it is considered one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in captive penguins, both in zoological gardens and rehabilitation centres. Penguins are known to be highly susceptible to this disease, and outbreaks have been associated with mortality as high as 50-80% of affected captive populations within a few weeks. The disease has also been reported in wild penguin populations, however, its impacts on the health and fitness of penguins in the wild is not clear. This review provides an overview of the aetiology, life cycle and epidemiology of avian malaria, and provides details on the strategies that can be employed for the diagnostic, treatment and prevention of this disease in captive penguins, discussing possible directions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Grilo
- a Interdisciplinary Centre of Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal.,b Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research , University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation , Buesum , Germany
| | - R E T Vanstreels
- c Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia , Universidade de São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - R Wallace
- d Milwaukee County Zoo , Milwaukee , WI , USA
| | - D García-Párraga
- e Veterinary Services , Oceanografic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias , Valencia , Spain
| | - É M Braga
- f Departamento de Parasitologia , Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
| | | | - J L Catão-Dias
- c Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia , Universidade de São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - L M Madeira de Carvalho
- a Interdisciplinary Centre of Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Parsons NJ, Voogt NM, Schaefer AM, Peirce MA, Vanstreels RET. Occurrence of blood parasites in seabirds admitted for rehabilitation in the Western Cape, South Africa, 2001-2013. Vet Parasitol 2016; 233:52-61. [PMID: 28043389 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2016] [Revised: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Blood parasites are generally uncommon in seabirds, and knowledge on their epidemiology is further limited by the fact that they often inhabit remote locations that are logistically difficult or expensive to study. We present a long term data set of blood smear examinations of 1909 seabirds belonging to 27 species that were admitted to a rehabilitation centre in Cape Town (Western Cape, South Africa) between 2001 and 2013. Blood parasites were detected in 59% of species (16/27) and 29% of individuals examined (551/1909). The following blood parasites were recorded: Babesia ugwidiensis, Babesia peircei, Babesia sp., Plasmodium sp., Leucocytozoon ugwidi, Hepatozoon albatrossi, Haemoproteus skuae and Spirochaetales. Several of the records are novel host-parasite associations, demonstrating the potential of rehabilitation centres for parasite and disease surveillance, particularly for species infrequently sampled from which no host-specific parasites have been described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N J Parsons
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), P.O. Box 11116, Bloubergrant, 7443, South Africa; Bayworld Centre for Research and Education, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
| | - N M Voogt
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), P.O. Box 11116, Bloubergrant, 7443, South Africa
| | - A M Schaefer
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Florida Atlantic University, 5600U.S. 1 North, Fort Pierce, FL 34946, USA
| | - M A Peirce
- MP International Consultancy, 6 Normandale House, Normandale, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, TN39 3NZ, UK; International Reference Centre for Avian Hematozoa, Queensland Museum, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - R E T Vanstreels
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology (LAPCOM), University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, São Paulo, SP, 05508-270, Brazil; Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Blood parasites such as haemogregarines and haemosporidians have been identified in almost all groups of vertebrates. However, very little is known about biodiversity of these parasites and their effects on some major groups of reptiles such as amphisbaenians, a distinctive group with many morphological and ecological adaptations to fossorial life. Conditions of the fossorial environment might also affect host-parasite relationships. We investigated the presence and the potential prevalence of three genera of haemoparasitic aplicomplexan blood parasites (Hepatozoon, Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) in the amphisbaenian Trogonophis wiegmanni, a fossorial worm lizard species from North West Africa. Blood parasite infection was not detected in T. wiegmanni, both in visual surveys of blood smears and using molecular methods to detect DNA of such parasites in the blood of the potential amphisbaenian hosts. We discuss how conditions of the fossorial environment might affect blood parasitaemias in amphisbaenians as well as in other fossorial reptiles.
Collapse
|
37
|
McCoy KD, Dietrich M, Jaeger A, Wilkinson DA, Bastien M, Lagadec E, Boulinier T, Pascalis H, Tortosa P, Le Corre M, Dellagi K, Lebarbenchon C. The role of seabirds of the Iles Eparses as reservoirs and disseminators of parasites and pathogens. ACTA OECOLOGICA (MONTROUGE, FRANCE) 2016; 72:98-109. [PMID: 32288503 PMCID: PMC7128210 DOI: 10.1016/j.actao.2015.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The role of birds as reservoirs and disseminators of parasites and pathogens has received much attention over the past several years due to their high vagility. Seabirds are particularly interesting hosts in this respect. In addition to incredible long-distance movements during migration, foraging and prospecting, these birds are long-lived, site faithful and breed in dense aggregations in specific colony locations. These different characteristics can favor both the local maintenance and large-scale dissemination of parasites and pathogens. The Iles Eparses provide breeding and feeding grounds for more than 3 million breeding pairs of seabirds including at least 13 species. Breeding colonies on these islands are relatively undisturbed by human activities and represent natural metapopulations in which seabird population dynamics, movement and dispersal can be studied in relation to that of circulating parasites and pathogens. In this review, we summarize previous knowledge and recently-acquired data on the parasites and pathogens found in association with seabirds of the Iles Eparses. These studies have revealed the presence of a rich diversity of infectious agents (viruses, bacteria and parasites) carried by the birds and/or their local ectoparasites (ticks and louse flies). Many of these agents are widespread and found in other ecosystems confirming a role for seabirds in their large scale dissemination and maintenance. The heterogeneous distribution of parasites and infectious agents among islands and seabird species suggests that relatively independent metacommunities of interacting species may exist within the western Indian Ocean. In this context, we discuss how the patterns and determinants of seabird movements may alter parasite and pathogen circulation. We conclude by outlining key aspects for future research given the baseline data now available and current concerns in eco-epidemiology and biodiversity conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen D. McCoy
- MIVEGEC (Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Evolution, Génétique, Ecologie, Contrôle) UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre IRD, 34393 Montpellier, France
| | - Muriel Dietrich
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Audrey Jaeger
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR ENTROPIE, Université de la Réunion-IRD-CNRS, CS92003, 97744 Saint Denis, Reunion Island, France
| | - David A. Wilkinson
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Matthieu Bastien
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Erwan Lagadec
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Thierry Boulinier
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CNRS-Université de Montpellier UMR 5175, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Hervé Pascalis
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Pablo Tortosa
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Matthieu Le Corre
- UMR ENTROPIE, Université de la Réunion-IRD-CNRS, CS92003, 97744 Saint Denis, Reunion Island, France
| | - Koussay Dellagi
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| | - Camille Lebarbenchon
- CRVOI (Centre de Recherche et de Veille sur les maladies émergentes dans l'Océan Indien), 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
- UMR PIMIT (Processus Infectieux en Milieu Insulaire Tropical), Université de La Réunion, INSERM 1187, CNRS 9192, IRD 249, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, Reunion Island, France
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Arriero E, Müller I, Juvaste R, Martínez FJ, Bertolero A. Variation in immune parameters and disease prevalence among Lesser Black-backed Gulls (Larus fuscus sp.) with different migratory strategies. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118279. [PMID: 25679797 PMCID: PMC4334556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to control infections is a key trait for migrants that must be balanced against other costly features of the migratory life. In this study we explored the links between migration and disease ecology by examining natural variation in parasite exposure and immunity in several populations of Lesser Black-backed Gulls (Larus fuscus) with different migratory strategies. We found higher activity of natural antibodies in long distance migrants from the nominate subspecies L.f.fuscus. Circulating levels of IgY showed large variation at the population level, while immune parameters associated with antimicrobial activity showed extensive variation at the individual level irrespective of population or migratory strategy. Pathogen prevalence showed large geographical variation. However, the seroprevalence of one of the gull-specific subtypes of avian influenza (H16) was associated to the migratory strategy, with lower prevalence among the long-distance migrants, suggesting that migration may play a role in disease dynamics of certain pathogens at the population level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Arriero
- Department of Migration and Immunoecology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell,Germany
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Inge Müller
- Department of Migration and Immunoecology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell,Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Risto Juvaste
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turun yliopisto, Finland
| | | | - Albert Bertolero
- Institute of Aquatic Ecosystems (IRTA), Sant Carles de la Ràpita, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
|
40
|
Paparini A, McInnes LM, Di Placido D, Mackereth G, Tompkins DM, Clough R, Ryan UM, Irwin PJ. Piroplasms of New Zealand seabirds. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:4407-14. [PMID: 25204728 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4118-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Blood and ectoparasitic ticks were collected from migratory seabirds in New Zealand, including Australasian gannets (n = 13) from two sites and red-billed gulls (n = 9) and white-fronted terns (n = 2) from a third location. Blood smears were screened for parasite presence by microscopy, while DNA from blood samples was subjected to PCR for the presence of tick-transmitted protozoan haemoparasites belonging to the order Piroplasmida. Parasites were identified by comparing small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rDNA) gene sequences to related sequences on GenBank. Analyses indicated that nine birds were infected with unknown variants of a Babesia poelea-like parasite (recorded as genotypes I and II), while four harboured a piroplasm that was genetically similar to Babesia kiwiensis. There was no parasite stratification by bird species; both the gannets and gulls were positive for all three parasites, while the terns were positive for the B. kiwiensis-like and the B. poelea-like (genotype I) parasites. The B. kiwiensis-like parasite found in the birds was also found in two species of ticks: Carios capensis and Ixodes eudyptidis. This represents the first report of Babesia-positive ticks parasitising seabirds in New Zealand. The lack of host specificity and evidence of wide ranging distributions of the three piroplasm genotypes suggests there is a high degree of haemoparasite transmission occurring naturally between New Zealand seabird populations and species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Paparini
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogen Research Group, School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Haemoproteus iwa in Great Frigatebirds (Fregata minor) in the Islands of the Western Indian Ocean. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97185. [PMID: 24810172 PMCID: PMC4014603 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood parasites of the sub-genus Haemoproteus have been reported in seabirds, in particular in species in the Suliformes order. These parasites are transmitted by hippoboscid flies of the genus Olfersia; strong specificity has been suggested between the vector and its vertebrate host. We investigated the prevalence of Haemoproteus infection in Suliformes and hippoboscid flies in two oceanic islands of the Western Indian Ocean: Europa and Tromelin. In total, 209 blood samples were collected from great frigatebirds (Fregata minor), masked boobies (Sula dactylatra) and red-footed boobies (Sula sula). Forty-one hippoboscid flies were also collected from birds. Seventeen frigatebirds and one fly collected on Europa tested positive for the presence of Haemoproteus parasites by polymerase chain reaction. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial sequences of the Cytochrome b gene showed that parasites were closely related to Haemoproteus iwa reported from frigatebirds in the Pacific Ocean and in the Caribbean. Plasmodium was also detected in a frigatebird on Europa; however, its placement on the phylogenetic tree could not be resolved. We provide strong support for transmission of blood parasites in seabirds in the Western Indian Ocean and suggest that migrations between the Pacific and the Indian oceans could favor the large-scale distribution of Haemoproteus iwa in frigatebird populations.
Collapse
|
42
|
Blood parasites in noddies and boobies from Brazilian offshore islands - differences between species and influence of nesting habitat. Parasitology 2013; 141:399-410. [PMID: 24229724 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182013001649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Seabirds are often free from blood parasites, and a recent review suggested that phylogenetic, ecological and life-history parameters can determine the prevalence of blood parasites in seabirds. However, there is a lack of data available from many seabird groups, and a larger database is needed to understand prevalence patterns of blood parasites. We used a molecular screening approach to detect parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon and Babesia in five species of two genera of seabirds that breed on Atlantic Ocean islands off Brazil. The observed patterns differed between the two bird genera. Like other Laridae, brown noddy, Anous stolidus adults were infected with Haemoproteus with low prevalence. Masked boobies, Sula dactylatra and brown boobies, Sula leucogaster were infected with Babesia. Of the latter, mainly juveniles were infected. In all species, intensity of infection (i.e. number of infected erythrocytes) was so low that parasites remained undetected in blood smears. This may explain the absence of major effects on the body condition of birds, although infected juvenile masked boobies were lighter than juveniles that were not infected with Babesia. Two tree-nesting species; black noddy, Anous minutus and red-footed booby, Sula sula did not have blood parasites, suggesting that tree-nesting may reduce the exposure to arthropod vectors compared with ground nesting in these species.
Collapse
|
43
|
Investigation of blood parasites of pygoscelid penguins at the King George and Elephant Islands, South Shetlands Archipelago, Antarctica. Polar Biol 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-013-1401-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
44
|
The pathology and pathogenicity of a novel Haemoproteus spp. infection in wild Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor). Vet Parasitol 2013; 197:74-84. [PMID: 23683654 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
One hundred and thirty four Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor) carcases found since 2004 in south west Australia were necropsied. The livers and spleens from ten of the penguins exhibited varying degrees of multifocal, randomly scattered areas of necrosis and varying numbers of parasites were associated with these areas. Hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were noted in many of these ten cases. Necrosis and parasites were also observed in the cardiac muscle of four of the cases and in the lung tissue in one of the penguins. Using PCR, the parasites were positively identified in four of the cases as Haemoproteus spp. and morphologically identical tissue stage parasites associated with histopathological changes were observed in all ten dead penguins. This is the first study to demonstrate both the in situ presence of the Haemoproteus parasite in any member of the Sphensicidae family and mortality due to its presence. We postulate the involvement of anomalous environmental conditions in a potential increase in local vectors.
Collapse
|
45
|
Pérez-Rodríguez A, de la Puente J, Onrubia A, Pérez-Tris J. Molecular characterization of haemosporidian parasites from kites of the genus Milvus (Aves: Accipitridae). Int J Parasitol 2013; 43:381-7. [PMID: 23376529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the ecological significance and appeal of birds of prey, many aspects of their biology remain poorly known, including the diversity of parasites infecting them in the wild. We studied the diversity and prevalence of haemosporidian parasites infecting the two species of kites of the genus Milvus, aiming to describe the phylogenetic relationships among them and with other haemosporidians, as well as their distribution in the two host species. Black kites, Milvus migrans, harboured a more diverse community of parasites, including three haplotypes of each of the three genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon, which also occurred at a higher prevalence than in red kites. In red kites, Milvus milvus only three haplotypes of Leucocytozoon were found. Kite parasites were not closely related to one another nor were they kite-specific: their diversity spanned various branches of the haemosporidian phylogenetic tree, and their closest relatives were found in other species (including various avian orders), although some Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus haplotypes clustered within apparently raptor-specific parasite clades. Remarkably, Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. infected adult black kites only, an observation which supports the hypothesis that they are transmitted at the African wintering grounds, while Leucocytozoon spp. is putatively transmitted only in Europe. Intercontinental migration of the black kite might explain the divergence of parasite diversity between these two sister species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antón Pérez-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Zoología y Antropología Física, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Gutiérrez JS, Abad-Gómez JM, Villegas A, Sánchez-Guzmán JM, Masero JA. Effects of salinity on the immune response of an 'osmotic generalist' bird. Oecologia 2012; 171:61-9. [PMID: 22782496 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-012-2405-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Salt stress can suppress the immune function of fish and other aquatic animals, but such an effect has not yet been examined in air-breathing vertebrates that frequently cope with waters (and prey) of contrasting salinities. We investigated the effects of seawater salinity on the strength and cost of mounting an immune response in the dunlin Calidris alpina, a long-distance migratory shorebird that shifts seasonally from freshwater environments during the breeding season to marine environments during migration and the winter period. Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)-induced skin swelling, basal metabolic rate (BMR), body mass, fat stores, and plasma ions were measured in dunlins acclimated to either freshwater or seawater (salinity: 0.3 and 35.0 ‰, respectively). Seawater-acclimated dunlins mounted a PHA-induced swelling response that was up to 56 % weaker than those held under freshwater conditions, despite ad libitum access to food. Freshwater-acclimated dunlins significantly increased their relative BMR 48 h after PHA injection, whereas seawater-acclimated dunlins did not. However, this differential immune and metabolic response between freshwater- and seawater-acclimated dunlins was not associated with significant changes in body mass, fat stores or plasma ions. Our results indicate that the strength of the immune response of this small-sized migratory shorebird was negatively influenced by the salinity of marine habitats. Further, these findings suggest that the reduced immune response observed under saline conditions might not be caused by an energy or nutrient limitation, and raise questions about the role of osmoregulatory hormones in the modulation of the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge S Gutiérrez
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|