1
|
Bukauskaitė D, Dementavičius D, Rumbutis S, Treinys R. Differences in haemosporidian parasite prevalence and diversity in migratory and resident birds of prey species revealed by a non-invasive sampling method. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11038. [PMID: 38487745 PMCID: PMC10937818 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian parasites are widespread globally and infect numerous wild bird species. However, they have primarily been studied in passerine birds. Accordingly, the prevalence and diversity of these parasites in birds of prey remain understudied. This lack of research is primarily due to the international protection status of many of these species, their sparse distribution across ecosystems and difficulty to capture in the wild. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and diversity of haemosporidian parasites in two species of birds of prey, namely white-tailed eagle and lesser spotted eagle. To achieve this, a non-invasive approach was employed, involving the extraction of DNA from blood spots present in moulted feathers. Freshly moulted feathers were collected from the ground under nests or within the nests of these birds during the breeding season. A visible blood spot located at the junction of the calamus and rachis was removed and fixed in SET buffer for molecular analysis. The identification of haemosporidian parasites (Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) was conducted using PCR-based methods. Overall, parasite DNA was successfully detected in shed feathers that were kept in their original form at least decade prior to analysis. Among the studied individuals, resident white-tailed eagles showed significantly lower infection rates of haemosporidian parasites compared to migratory lesser spotted eagles. A total of nine genetic lineages of haemosporidian parasites were detected, with seven of them being new to science based on partial sequences of the cytb gene. Additionally, the phylogenetic relationships among these new lineages and previously described ones were established. These findings highlight the suitability of non-invasive sampling for investigating the prevalence and diversity of haemosporidian parasites in wild birds of prey populations. Moreover, this approach holds promise for studying other challenging-to-reach and protected bird species. According to our research, there is a greater chance of finding haemosporidian parasites in freshly gathered feathers.
Collapse
|
2
|
Boonchuay K, Thomrongsuwannakij T, Chagas CRF, Pornpanom P. Prevalence and Diversity of Blood Parasites ( Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma) in Backyard Chickens ( Gallus gallus domesticus) Raised in Southern Thailand. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2798. [PMID: 37685062 PMCID: PMC10486576 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian malaria and leucocytozoonosis can cause fatal diseases, whereas avian trypanosomiasis is reported to be harmless in chickens. Backyard chickens can be infected by several pathogens, including blood parasites, that may shed to industrial poultry production, with a consequently higher economic impact. This study aimed to investigate the presence of several blood parasites (Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma) in backyard chickens raised in Southern Thailand, using PCR-based detection and microscopic methods. From June 2021 to June 2022, 57 backyard chickens were sampled. Fresh thin blood smears were prepared from 11 individuals, and buffy coat smears were prepared from 55 of them. Both thin blood smears and buffy coat smears were used for microscopic analysis. Two nested PCR protocols that amplify a fragment of cytochrome b (cytb) and small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) genes were used to identify Haemosporida and Trypanosoma parasites, respectively. The number of positive samples was higher with the application of nested PCR than when buffy coat smears were used. Three new Plasmodium lineages (GALLUS47-49) and thirteen Leucocytozoon lineages (GALLUS50-62) were found. Trophozoites, meronts and gametocytes of Plasmodium gallinaceum (GALLUS01) were present in one thin blood smear. All thin blood smears revealed Leucocytozoon infections, but only three samples were a single infection. These three samples revealed the presence of fusiform host cell-parasite complexes, of which the morphological features resembled those of Leucocytozoon macleani (possible synonym is Leucocytozoon sabrazesi), while the cytb showed that this parasite is closely related to the lineage GALLUS06-07, described as Leucocytozoon schouteni. The Trypanosoma prevalence was 33.33%; it was present in only one of the thin blood smears, and it resembles Trypanosoma calmettei. This study showed the prevalence of a high diversity of Plasmodium (64.91%) and Leucocytozoon (89.47%) in Thai chickens. Both nested-PCR and buffy coat smear can be used as the diagnostic tool for the testing of Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma for parasitic control in backyard chickens and poultry farms. The information on the parasite species that can be found in chickens raised in Southern Thailand was also considered as the baseline information for further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanpapat Boonchuay
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (K.B.); (T.T.)
| | | | | | - Pornchai Pornpanom
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (K.B.); (T.T.)
- Informatics Innovation Center of Excellence, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
- One Health Research Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Anjos CC, Bicudo T, Fecchio A, Anciães M, Mathias BS, Chagas CRF, Bell JA, Guimarães LO, Monteiro EF, Kirchgatter K. Prevalence and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in islands within a mega hydroelectric dam in the Brazilian Amazon. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2065-2077. [PMID: 37391644 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07906-3] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The Brazilian Amazon supports an extremely diverse avifauna and serves as the diversification center for avian malaria parasites in South America. Construction of hydroelectric dams can drive biodiversity loss by creating islands incapable of sustaining the bird communities found in intact forest sites. Besides anthropogenic actions, the presence of parasites can also influence the dynamics and structure of bird communities. Avian malaria (Plasmodium) and related haemosporidian parasites (Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) are a globally distributed group of protozoan parasites recovered from all major bird groups. However, no study to date has analyzed the presence of avian haemosporidian parasites in fragmented areas such as land bridge islands formed during artificial flooding following the construction of hydroelectric dams. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and molecular diversity of haemosporidians in bird communities inhabiting artificial islands in the area of the Balbina Hydroelectric Dam. The reservoir area covers 443,700 ha with 3546 islands on the left bank of the Uatumã River known to contain more than 400 bird species. We surveyed haemosporidian infections in blood samples collected from 445 understory birds, belonging to 53 species, 24 families, and 8 orders. Passeriformes represented 95.5% of all analyzed samples. We found a low overall Plasmodium prevalence (2.9%), with 13 positive samples (two Plasmodium elongatum and 11 Plasmodium sp.) belonging to eight lineages. Six of these lineages were previously recorded in the Amazon, whereas two of them are new. Hypocnemis cantator, the Guianan Warbling Antbird, represented 38.5% of all infected individuals, even though it represents only 5.6% of the sampled individuals. Since comparison with Plasmodium prevalence data prior to construction of Balbina is not possible, other studies in artificially flooded areas are imperative to test if anthropogenic flooding may disrupt vector-parasite relationships leading to low Plasmodium prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina C Anjos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Thiago Bicudo
- Instituto de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Mamirauá, Tefé, AM, 69553-225, Brazil
| | - Alan Fecchio
- Centro de Investigación Esquel de Montaña y Estepa Patagónica (CIEMEP), CONICET - Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Esquel, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Marina Anciães
- Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia, Coordenação de Biodiversidade, Manaus, AM, 69081-000, Brazil
| | - Bruno S Mathias
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | | | - Jeffrey A Bell
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, 10 Cornell Street, Grand Forks, ND, 58202, USA
| | - Lilian O Guimarães
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto Pasteur, São Paulo, SP, 01027-000, Brazil
| | - Eliana F Monteiro
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto Pasteur, São Paulo, SP, 01027-000, Brazil
| | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto Pasteur, São Paulo, SP, 01027-000, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yabsley MJ, Coker SM, Welch CN, Garrett KB, Murray M, Grunert R, Seixas JS, Kistler WM, Curry SE, Adams HC, Nakatsu CS, Swanepoel L, Wyckoff ST, Koser TM, Kurimo-Beechuk E, Haynes E, Hernandez SM. A single Haemoproteus plataleae haplotype is widespread in white ibis ( Eudocimus albus) from urban and rural sites in southern Florida. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2023; 21:269-276. [PMID: 37520900 PMCID: PMC10372042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The American white ibis (Eudocimus albus), a common bird species in Florida, has become increasingly urban, with many populations relying heavily on urban and suburban habitats, which may alter parasite transmission. Parasites of ibis, especially haemosporidians, are understudied. Avian haemosporidia can have a wide range of impacts on birds, including decreased reproductive success or increased mortality. Because southern Florida is subtropical and has a high diversity of potential vectors for haemosporidia, we hypothesized that there will be a high prevalence and genetic diversity of haemosporidia in white ibis. A total of 636 ibis from South Florida were sampled from 2010 to 2022, and blood samples were tested for haemosporidia by examination of Giemsa-stained thin blood smears and/or nested PCRs targeting the cytochrome b gene. A total of 400 (62.9%, 95% CI 59-66.7%) ibis were positive for parasites that were morphologically identified as Haemoproteus plataleae. Sequences of 302 positives revealed a single haplotype of Haemoproteus (EUDRUB01), which was previously reported from white ibis in South Florida and captive scarlet ibis (E. ruber) in Brazil. No Plasmodium or Leucocytozoon infections were detected. Parasitemias of the 400 positive birds were very low (average 0.084%, range 0.001%-2.16% [although only 2 birds had parasitemias >1%]). Prevalence and parasitemias were similar for males and females (68% vs. 61.6% and 0.081% vs. 0.071%, respectively). Prevalence in juveniles was lower compared with adults (52% vs. 67.4%) but parasitemias were higher in juveniles (0.117% vs. 0.065%). This data shows that H. plataleae is common in ibis in South Florida. Although parasitemias were generally low, additional research is needed to determine if this parasite has subclinical effects on ibis, if additional haplotypes or parasite species infect ibis in other regions of their range, or if H. plataleae is pathogenic for other sympatric avian species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Yabsley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Coker
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Catharine N. Welch
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Common Ground Ecology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kayla B. Garrett
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Maureen Murray
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ryan Grunert
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Julia S. Seixas
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Whitney M. Kistler
- School of Mathematics and Sciences, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, USA
| | - Shannon E. Curry
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Henry C. Adams
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Charlie S. Nakatsu
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Liandrie Swanepoel
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Seth T. Wyckoff
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Troy M. Koser
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kurimo-Beechuk
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ellen Haynes
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sonia M. Hernandez
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
de Freitas RVM, Barino GTM, Cedrola F, Dias RJP, D'Agosto M, Massard CL. Insights on the taxonomy of Haemoproteus parasites infecting cracid birds. Parasitol Int 2023; 94:102730. [PMID: 36623802 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The Haemosporida order is a well-supported clade of heteroxenous parasites transmitted by dipteran insects and frequently found parasitizing wild birds. These parasites have already been reported in all zoogeographic regions of the world, except for Antarctica. One of the potential hosts of haemosporidians is the Cracidae family, which includes approximately 50 species, 22 of which are present in Brazil, classified within nine genera. Data on haemosporidian infecting individuals of the Cracidae family is scarce, with only three Haemoproteus species being recorded in this group of birds. We found Haemoproteus spp. infection in all Penelope obscura bronzina analyzed. Among the parasites found, we observed two lineages of Haemoproteus (PENOBS02 and PENOBS03), which were characterized by morphological, molecular and phylogenetic approaches. The morphological data on cracid haemosporidian parasites, together with our phylogenetic results, allows discussions on the taxonomy of the Haemoproteus parasites that infect birds of the Cracidae family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Glauber Thiago Martins Barino
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Franciane Cedrola
- Laboratório de Diversidade Genética, Departamento de Genética, Evolução, Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roberto Júnio Pedroso Dias
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marta D'Agosto
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlos Luiz Massard
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Martín-Maldonado B, Mencía-Gutiérrez A, Andreu-Vázquez C, Fernández R, Pastor-Tiburón N, Alvarado A, Carrero A, Fernández-Novo A, Esperón F, González F. A Four-Year Survey of Hemoparasites from Nocturnal Raptors (Strigiformes) Confirms a Relation between Leucocytozoon and Low Hematocrit and Body Condition Scores of Parasitized Birds. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010054. [PMID: 36669055 PMCID: PMC9865734 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Most hemoparasites hosted by wild birds appear to be harmless, but most of the blood parasite studies in avian wildlife are mainly focused on passerines or migratory species. This study aimed to assess the occurrence of blood parasites in nocturnal raptors (Strigiformes order) and their effect on hematological parameters. A total of 134 blood samples were collected during a four-year period for hematological analysis and hemoparasite detection and quantification by microscopical examination of the samples. Overall, the occurrence of hemoparasites was 35.1%, with Leucocytozoon being the most frequently detected (32.1%), followed by Haemoproteus (11.2%), Trypanosoma and Plasmodium (2.2% each). Among the different bird species, the Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) showed the highest blood parasite positivity (94.7%). In barn owls, the positive birds displayed a lower hematocrit measurement and body condition score than the non-parasitized ones (p = 0.007 and p = 0.005, respectively), especially those parasitized by Leucocytozoon. Moreover, the analysis of the magnitude of this association revealed that the presence of hemoparasites is five times more frequent in barn owls with a 2/5 body condition score. Despite the host-parasite coevolution in Strigiformes, our results show a correlation between the presence of hemoparasites and some health parameters, including blood parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Martín-Maldonado
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Aida Mencía-Gutiérrez
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Cristina Andreu-Vázquez
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Rocío Fernández
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Natalia Pastor-Tiburón
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Alberto Alvarado
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Alicia Carrero
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Aitor Fernández-Novo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Fernando Esperón
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain
| | - Fernando González
- Wildlife Hospital, Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat (GREFA), 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
- Departmental Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Haemosporidians in Non-Passerine Birds of Colombia: An Overview of the Last 20 Years of Research. DIVERSITY 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/d15010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The Neotropics are highly diverse in avian species. Neotropical countries contribute a large part of the estimated diversity of haemosporidian parasites reported for the planet’s tropical zones. However, sampling is limited and biased, illustrated by only 30% of the genetic records (barcodes) from non-passerines, most of them not linked to a nominal species. This paper aimed to perform the molecular and morphological characterization of the haemosporidians that infect non-passerine birds from Colombia deposited in the biological collection named “Grupo de Estudio Relación Parásito Hospedero (GERPH)”. We analyzed 1239 samples from twelve biomes and two animal care facilities. Phylogenetic relationships using barcodes and mitochondrial genomes were estimated. In addition, the reports of haemosporidian infections in non-passerine birds from the Neotropics recorded after 1978 were summarized. We reported the presence of thirteen morphological haemosporidian species, four potential new species deposited in GERPH, a host range expansion for two Plasmodium species, and a barcode sequence for Haemoproteus caprimulgi. We confirmed the species associated with 56 molecular lineages reported in other neotropical countries at the genus level. Thus, biological collections and curated databases such as MalAvi are essential to support integrative approaches demanded in modern taxonomy.
Collapse
|
8
|
Meister SL, Wyss F, Wenker C, Hoby S, Basso WU. Avian haemosporidian parasites in captive and free-ranging, wild birds from zoological institutions in Switzerland: Molecular characterization and clinical importance. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 20:46-55. [PMID: 36688077 PMCID: PMC9849939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian parasites are widespread and infect birds from a broad variety of avian families with diverse consequences ranging from subclinical infections to severe and fatal disease. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and diversity of avian haemosporidia including associated clinical signs and pathomorphological lesions in captive and free-ranging, wild birds from two zoos and the near environment in Switzerland. Blood samples from 475 birds, including 230 captive and 245 free-ranging, wild individuals belonging to 42 different avian species from 15 orders were examined for the presence of avian haemosporidian DNA by a one-step multiplex PCR designed to simultaneously detect and discriminate the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon by targeting mitochondrial genome sequences. Positive samples were additionally tested using a nested PCR targeting the cytochrome b gene of Plasmodium and Haemoproteus. The obtained amplicons were bidirectionally sequenced. This study revealed haemosporidian DNA in 42 samples, belonging to ten host species. The most commonly detected lineage was Plasmodium relictum SGS1, which was identified in 29 birds (Phoenicopterus roseus: n = 24, Alectoris graeca: n = 1, Lamprotornis superbus: n = 1, Somateria mollissima: n = 1, Spheniscus demersus: n = 1, Tetrao urogallus crassirostris: n = 1), followed by Haemoproteus sp. STRURA03 in six avian hosts (Bubo bubo: n = 5, Bubo scandiacus = 1), Plasmodium relictum GRW11 in four individuals (Phoenicopterus roseus: n = 3, Spheniscus demersus: n = 1) and Plasmodium elongatum GRW06 in one Alectura lathami lathami. A Phalacrocorax carbo was infected with Plasmodium relictum, but the exact lineage could not be determined. One mixed infection with P. relictum and Haemoproteus sp. was detected in a Bubo scandiacus. Only five individuals (Spheniscus demersus: n = 2, Somateria mollissima: n = 1, Bubo scandiacus: n = 1, Alectoris graeca: n = 1) showed clinical and pathomorphological evidence of a haemosporidian infection.
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,Institute of Animal Pathology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland,Corresponding author. Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Fabia Wyss
- Zoo Basel, Binningerstrasse 40, CH-4054, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan Hoby
- Berne Animal Park, Tierparkweg 1, CH-3005, 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,Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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
|
10
|
Avian Haemosporidian (Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) Status in Two Bird Groups (Old-World Flycatchers and Thrushes) of India and Their Phylogenetic Relationships with Other Lineages of the World. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:1756-1766. [DOI: 10.1007/s11686-022-00626-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
|
11
|
Nourani L, Aliabadian M, Mirshamsi O, Dinparast Djadid N. Prevalence of co-infection and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in two rehabilitation facilities in Iran: implications for the conservation of captive raptors. BMC Ecol Evol 2022; 22:114. [PMID: 36209068 PMCID: PMC9547439 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-022-02068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Various haemosporidian parasites infect raptors, especially captive hosts who may be more exposed. Diagnosis of threatening factors such as infectious diseases indirectly has a significant role in protecting endangered or threatened species that may boost the mortality or extinction resulting from declined reproduction. Few investigations have been performed in captive hosts to detect the prevalence of haemosporidian parasites and define genetic diversity in west Asia. For the first time, the current study was designed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of haemosporidian parasites in captive raptors by molecular methods in two rehabilitation facilities in North and North-east Iran and to define phylogenetic relationships of detected lineages circulating in raptors. Results Molecular characterization of the haemosporidian parasite was accomplished by PCR-based method and DNA sequencing in 62 captive raptors. The overall prevalence was ~ 36% with higher infection of Haemoproteus spp. than Leucocytozoon spp. Plasmodium infection was not detected in any host. Results showed that 22 individuals (of 10 species) were infected with unique lineages. Genus Haemoproteus was detected in 26.66% of examined individuals (of eight species) and Leucocytozoon was found in 10% of individuals (of four species). The molecular analysis could detect ten lineages (nine Haemoproteus spp. and one Leucocytozoon spp.) which were categorizes as new and six lineages which have been previously detected in the other investigations. Conclusions The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis derived from obtained data in the present study and published lineages in previous investigations indicated the probable host specificity of Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon parasites in several sub-clades at hosts’ order and genus level. As monitoring the parasite loads of captive birds when admitted reduce the risk of infecting hosts in captivity at those locations, we designed this study to determine infection prevalence and genetic diversity of blood parasites in raptors examined in Iran. These results allow mapping of haemosporidian distribution and shed light on the depth of their diversity in Iran to protect species by identification of risk in rehabilitation facilities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12862-022-02068-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nourani
- grid.420169.80000 0000 9562 2611Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mansour Aliabadian
- grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI), Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Omid Mirshamsi
- grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI), Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- grid.420169.80000 0000 9562 2611Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Valkiūnas G, Iezhova TA. Keys to the avian Haemoproteus parasites (Haemosporida, Haemoproteidae). Malar J 2022; 21:269. [PMID: 36123731 PMCID: PMC9487097 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04235-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Haemoproteus is a sister genus to malaria parasites (Plasmodium), which both belong to the order Haemosporida (Apicomplexa). Parasites of both genera are flourishing in birds, however, Haemoproteus species are noticeably less investigated. This is unfortunate because knowledge about close relatives of malaria pathogens is important for better understanding the evolutionary origin and basic biological features of the entire group of haemosporidian infections. Moreover, recent findings show that Haemoproteus species can cause severe damage of various bird organs due to megalomeronts and other exo-erythrocytic stages. These haemosporidians are remarkably diverse, but remain neglected partly due to difficulties in species identification. Hundreds of Haemoproteus genetic lineages have been reported in birds, and numerous new lineages are found each year, but most remain unidentified to the species level. Numerous new Haemoproteus pathogens were described during the past 20 years. However, keys for their identification are absent. Identification of Haemoproteus species remains a difficult task and is an obstacle for better understanding of the distribution and epidemiology of these parasites. This study aimed to develop comprehensive keys for the identification of described avian Haemoproteus species using morphological features of their blood stages (gametocytes). Methods Type and voucher preparations of avian Haemoproteus species were accessed in museums in Europe, Australia and the USA. Gametocytes of most described species were examined, and these data formed a background for this study. The data also were considered from published articles containing parasite species descriptions. The method of dichotomous keys was applied. The most difficult steps in the keys were accompanied with references to the corresponding parasite pictures. Results In all, 201 published articles were included in this review. Morphological diagnostic features of gametocytes of all described Haemoproteus species were analysed and compared. Illustrated keys for identification of these parasite species were developed. Available information about the molecular characterization of Haemoproteus parasites was provided. Conclusion This review shows that 177 described species of avian Haemoproteus can be distinguished and identified in blood films using morphological characters of their gametocytes and host cells. These species were incorporated in the keys. Information about possible morphologically cryptic parasites was provided. Molecular markers are available for only 42% of the described Haemoproteus parasites, calling for researchers to fill this gap.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatjana A Iezhova
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 2100, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
High prevalence of Plasmodium infection in fighting cocks in Thailand determined with a molecular method. J Vet Res 2022; 66:373-379. [PMID: 36349140 PMCID: PMC9597944 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2022-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Avian malaria caused by Plasmodium and the malaria-like parasites of the genus Haemoproteus has been regularly described in multiple regions worldwide. These parasites significantly affect many avian taxa, including domestic chickens and fighting cocks. There are limited epidemiological studies of these blood parasites in vertebrate hosts, especially in Thailand. Material and Methods This study used microscopic examination of blood samples and PCR amplification exploiting primers for nucleotide sequences of Plasmodium or Haemoproteus species based on the cytochrome b gene to determine the occurrence of Plasmodium spp. in fighting cocks. Results Examination of 249 blood samples of fighting cocks revealed that 41.37% (103/249) were positive for malaria by microscopic examination and 88.76% (221/249) were positive by DNA amplification. Sequencing and DNA analysis of 61 PCR products revealed that infection by Plasmodium juxtanucleare was the most common avian malaria in fighting cocks in Thailand followed by infections by Plasmodium gallinaceum; however, Haemoproteus infection was not discovered. Conclusion This study indicated that plasmodiasis is widespread in fighting cocks in Thailand although the prevalence was not clearly determined; therefore, prevention and control strategies for these protozoa should be improved, especially those for avoiding vector exposure and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Collapse
|
14
|
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
|
15
|
Tolerability of Atovaquone—Proguanil Application in Common Buzzard Nestlings. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080397. [PMID: 36006311 PMCID: PMC9414624 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080397] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many wild animals, and particularly birds, are commonly infected and can suffer health consequences by blood parasites related to Plasmodium, the causative agents of malaria in humans. Atovaquone–proguanil (Malarone®, GlaxoSmithKline) is one of the most popular drugs for the treatment of malaria infections in humans and is commonly used for the treatment of birds in captivity. Our aim was to test the potential effects of Malarone® within one week of treatment on the growth rate, body condition, and blood chemistry of common buzzard nestlings, a widely distributed Eurasian bird of prey. We found no evidence of detrimental effects of a single dose in common buzzard nestlings with an average dosage of 11 mg/kg, compared with the 7 mg/kg recommended daily dosage in humans. Although Malarone® is commonly used in wildlife rehabilitation centres, and our results do not indicate acute toxicity, further studies are needed to determine the half-life and potential long-term effects of Malarone® treatment in birds. Abstract Differences in drug tolerability among vertebrate groups and species can create substantial challenges for wildlife and ex situ conservation programmes. Knowledge of tolerance in the use of new drugs is, therefore, important to avoid severe toxicity in species, which are both commonly admitted in veterinary clinics and are of conservation concern. Antimalarial drugs have been developed for use in human medicine, but treatment with different agents has also long been used in avian medicine, as haemosporidian infections play a major role in many avian species. This study investigates the effects of the application of atovaquone–proguanil (Malarone®, GlaxoSmithKline) in common buzzards (Buteo buteo). The potential effects of treatment on body condition, growth rate, and chemical blood parameters of nestlings were assessed. All individuals survived the treatment, and no effects on body condition, growth rate, and chemical blood parameters were observed. Our results suggest the tolerability of Malarone® in common buzzards at a single dose of on average 11 mg/kg body weight. For its safe use, we recommend further studies to determine pharmacokinetics in different avian species as well as to assess the effects of repeated treatment.
Collapse
|
16
|
Alvarez-Londoño J, Cardona-Romero M, Martínez-Sánchez ET, Ossa-López PA, Pérez-Cárdenas JE, Gonzalez AD, Rivera-Páez FA, Castaño-Villa GJ. Avian haemosporidian (Haemosporida: Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) in the department of Arauca, Colombian Orinoquia region. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1775-1787. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07511-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
17
|
Harl J, Himmel T, Valkiūnas G, Ilgūnas M, Nedorost N, Matt J, Kübber-Heiss A, Alic A, Konicek C, Weissenböck H. Avian haemosporidian parasites of accipitriform raptors. Malar J 2022; 21:14. [PMID: 34986864 PMCID: PMC8729155 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-04019-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The order Accipitriformes comprises the largest group of birds of prey with 260 species in four families. So far, 21 haemosporidian parasite species have been described from or reported to occur in accipitriform birds. Only five of these parasite species have been characterized molecular genetically. The first part of this study involved molecular genetic screening of accipitriform raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina and the first chromogenic in situ hybridization approach targeting parasites in this host group. The aim of the second part of this study was to summarize the CytB sequence data of haemosporidian parasites from accipitriform raptors and to visualize the geographic and host distribution of the lineages. Methods Blood and tissue samples of 183 accipitriform raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina were screened for Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon parasites by nested PCR, and tissue samples of 23 PCR-positive birds were subjected to chromogenic in situ hybridization using genus-specific probes targeting the parasites’ 18S rRNAs. All published CytB sequence data from accipitriform raptors were analysed, phylogenetic trees were calculated, and DNA haplotype network analyses were performed with sequences from clades featuring multiple lineages detected in this host group. Results Of the 183 raptors from Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina screened by PCR and sequencing, 80 individuals (44%) were infected with haemosporidian parasites. Among the 39 CytB lineages detected, 18 were found for the first time in the present study. The chromogenic in situ hybridization revealed exo-erythrocytic tissue stages of Leucocytozoon parasites belonging to the Leucocytozoon toddi species group in the kidneys of 14 infected birds. The total number of CytB lineages recorded in accipitriform birds worldwide was 57 for Leucocytozoon, 25 for Plasmodium, and 21 for Haemoproteus. Conclusion The analysis of the DNA haplotype networks allowed identifying numerous distinct groups of lineages, which have not yet been linked to morphospecies, and many of them likely belong to yet undescribed parasite species. Tissue stages of Leucocytozoon parasites developing in accipitriform raptors were discovered and described. The majority of Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus lineages are specific to this host group, but most Plasmodium lineages were found in birds of other orders. This might indicate local transmission from birds kept at the same facilities (raptor rescue centres and zoos), likely resulting in abortive infections. To clarify the taxonomic and systematic problems, combined morphological and molecular genetic analyses on a wider range of accipitriform host species are needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12936-021-04019-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Tanja Himmel
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Nora Nedorost
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Matt
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Kübber-Heiss
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amer Alic
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Cornelia Konicek
- Service for Birds and Reptiles, Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department for Companion Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lertwatcharasarakul P, Salakij C, Prasopsom P, Kasorndorkbua C, Jakthong P, Santavakul M, Suwanasaeng P, Ploypan R. Molecular and Morphological Analyses of Leucocytozoon Parasites (Haemosporida: Leucocytozoidae) in Raptors From Thailand. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1406-1416. [PMID: 34021878 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00403-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leucocytozoon spp. causes a vector-borne disease that is nonpathogenic in domestic and wild birds. To date, there was no report of leucocytozoonosis in raptors from Thailand. METHODS This study was carried out to perform morphological and molecular analyses of Leucocytozoon in 400 raptors at a rehabilitation center at Kasetsart University, Thailand during a 7-year period. The nested PCR was used to amplify the cytochrome b gene of Leucocytozoon with primers HaemNF1 and HaemNR3 as the primary reaction. RESULTS The light microscopic examination revealed Leucocytozoon gametocytes in five raptors; three diurnal raptors [two Crested Goshawks (CGs, Accipiter trivirgatus) and one Eastern Imperial Eagle (EIE, Aquila heliaca)], and two nocturnal raptors (one Oriental Scops-Owl (OSO, Otus sunia,) and one Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus) and two species were identified: Leucocytozoon danilewskyi in both owl species and L. californicus in two CGs. The PCR method revealed more infection rate (2.0%, 8/400) than the light microscopic method including one Barred Eagle-Owl (BEO, Bubo sumatranus), one Brown Hawk Owl (BHO, Ninox scutulata) and one OSO. A phylogeny revealed that sequences from one SEO and one OSO were clustered with L. danilewskyi and the three Leucocytozoon sequences from diurnal raptors were clustered with L. californicus. The other three sequences from a BHO, a BEO and an OSO were ambiguous. CONCLUSION This study combined morphological, morphometric and molecular phylogenetic analyses to identify L. danilewskyi in two species of owls, L. californicus in three diurnal raptors, and unknown species in three other owls, representing the first records of leucocytozoon infection in raptors from Thailand.
Collapse
|
19
|
Pornpanom P, Kasorndorkbua C, Lertwatcharasarakul P, Salakij C. Prevalence and genetic diversity of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors from Thailand: Data from rehabilitation center. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 16:75-82. [PMID: 34458091 PMCID: PMC8379528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The diurnal raptors (Family: Accipitridae and Falconidae) are important as ecosystem bioindicators. Unfortunately, the global number of these birds has fallen, and they are close to extinction. This study reports the molecular prevalence and genetic diversity of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors admitted to the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit over a period of 6 years. A total of 198 raptors, including 22 species from 30 provinces in Thailand, were admitted. The prevalence of parasites in raptors was low: Haemoproteus was 4.04% (95% CI: 1.29-6.78), and Plasmodium 2.53% (95% CI: 0.34-4.71). Eleven lineages of haemosporidian parasites were identified, and four lineages (ACCBAD02, NISALB01, NISALB02, and AEGMO03) are new globally. Interestingly, six lineages were isolated from birds belonging to the Accipitridae and Falconidae families (TYTAL4, TYTAL6, GLACUC08, MILANS06, OTUSCO02, and ORW1), indicating host shift of these parasites. Furthermore, the low prevalence of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in raptors compared with that in previous reports suggests a relationship between the activity of avian hosts and vectors. This information is valuable for application in raptor rehabilitation and further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pornchai Pornpanom
- Akkhararatchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand
| | - Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.,Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | - Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | - Chaleow Salakij
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yang G, He H, Zhang G, Zhao W, Zhou J, Qian Y, Huang X, Dong L. Neglected parasite reservoirs in wetlands: Prevalence and diversity of avian haemosporidians in waterbird communities in Northeast China. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:177-183. [PMID: 34141566 PMCID: PMC8182418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The diversity of waterbirds is threatened, and haemosporidian parasite infection is considered one of the most important causative factors. However, to date, only a few studies focusing on specific parasite species have been carried out, which cannot reflect the general patterns at the community level. To test whether the reported haemosporidian diversity in waterbirds is underestimated, we estimated the prevalence and lineage diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in 353 waterbirds from 26 species in the Tumuji National Nature Reserve, Northeast China, as well as the host-parasite associations. According to the molecular analysis of cytochrome b (cyt b) barcode sequences, 28.3% of the birds were infected by 49 distinct parasite lineages, including 11 Plasmodium, 12 Haemoproteus, and 26 Leucocytozoon lineages, of which 39 were novel. The highest prevalence was contributed by Leucocytozoon (13.31%), followed by Plasmodium (13.03%) and Haemoproteus (4.25%), which suggested that waterbirds were infected to a lesser extent by Haemoproteus than by the other two genera. Among the most sampled birds, species belonging to Anatidae appeared to be susceptible to Leucocytozoon but resistant to Plasmodium, while Rallidae presented the opposite pattern. On the phylogenetic tree, most of the Leucocytozoon lineages detected in Anatidae clustered together and formed two well-supported clades, while lineages restricted to Gruidae were distantly related to other parasites in all three genera. SW5 was the most abundant lineage and therefore might be a major threat to waterbirds; among the hosts, the common coot harboured the highest diversity of parasite lineages and thus could act as a reservoir for potential transmission. This is the first study of avian haemosporidian infections in a wild waterbird community in Asia. Our findings have doubled the number of lineages recorded in waterbirds, broadened our understanding of host-parasite associations, and addressed the importance of studying haemosporidian infections in wild waterbird conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guocheng Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Haiyan He
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Guogang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Forest Protection of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, National Bird Banding Center of China, Research Institute of Forest Ecology, Environment and Protection, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Wenyu Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Jingying Zhou
- Tumuji National Nature Reserve of Inner Mongolia, Zhalaiteqi, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 137600, China
| | - Ying Qian
- Tumuji National Nature Reserve of Inner Mongolia, Zhalaiteqi, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 137600, China
| | - Xi Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Lu Dong
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Plasmodium matutinum Causing Avian Malaria in Lovebirds ( Agapornis roseicollis) Hosted in an Italian Zoo. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071356. [PMID: 34201448 PMCID: PMC8306776 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071356] [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: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian malaria is a worldwide distributed, vector-born disease of birds caused by parasites of the order Haemosporida. There is a lack of knowledge about the presence and pathogenetic role of Haemosporida in Psittacidae. Here we report a case of avian malaria infection in lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis), with the genetic characterization of the Plasmodium species involved. The birds were hosted in a zoo located in Italy, where avian malaria cases in African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) were already reported. Animals (n = 11) were submitted for necropsy after sudden death and were subjected to further analyses including histopathology, bacteriology, and PCR for the research of haemosporidians. Clinical history, gross lesions and histopathological observation of schizonts, together with positive PCR results for Plasmodium spp., demonstrated that avian malaria was the cause of death for one animal and the possible cause of death for the other nine. The sequences obtained were compared using BLAST and analyzed for similarity to sequences available at the MalAvi database. Genetic analyses demonstrated a 100% nucleotide identity to Plasmodium matutinum LINN1 for all the obtained sequences. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing avian malaria in lovebirds.
Collapse
|
22
|
Sekar V, Rivero A, Pigeault R, Gandon S, Drews A, Ahren D, Hellgren O. Gene regulation of the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum, during the different stages within the mosquito vector. Genomics 2021; 113:2327-2337. [PMID: 34023365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.05.021] [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: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum is one of the most widespread species of avian malaria. As in the case of its human counterparts, bird Plasmodium undergoes a complex life cycle infecting two hosts: the arthropod vector and the vertebrate host. In this study, we examined transcriptomes of P. relictum (SGS1) during crucial timepoints within its vector, Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus. Differential gene-expression analyses identified genes linked to the parasites life-stages at: i) a few minutes after the blood meal is ingested, ii) during peak oocyst production phase, iii) during peak sporozoite phase and iv) during the late-stages of the infection. A large amount of genes coding for functions linked to host-immune invasion and multifunctional genes was active throughout the infection cycle. One gene associated with a conserved Plasmodium membrane protein with unknown function was upregulated throughout the parasite development in the vector, suggesting an important role in the successful completion of the sporogonic cycle. Gene expression analysis further identified genes, with unknown functions to be significantly differentially expressed during the infection in the vector as well as upregulation of reticulocyte-binding proteins, which raises the possibility of the multifunctionality of these RBPs. We establish the existence of highly stage-specific pathways being overexpressed during the infection. This first study of gene-expression of a non-human Plasmodium species in its vector provides a comprehensive insight into the molecular mechanisms of the common avian malaria parasite P. relictum and provides essential information on the evolutionary diversity in gene regulation of the Plasmodium's vector stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Rivero
- MIVEGEC (CNRS - Université de Montpellier - IRD), 34394 Montpellier, France; CREES (Centre de Recherche en Ecologie et Evolution de la Santé), 34394 Montpellier, France
| | - Romain Pigeault
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sweden; Department of Ecology and Evolution, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Gandon
- CEFE (CNRS - Université de Montpellier - Université Paul-Valéry - EPHE - IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Anna Drews
- MEMEG, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Dag Ahren
- National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden (NBIS), SciLifeLab, Department of Biology, Lund, Sweden
| | - Olof Hellgren
- MEMEG, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sacchi ABV, André MR, Calchi AC, de Santi M, Guimarães A, Pires JR, Baldani CD, Werther K, Machado RZ. Molecular and serological detection of arthropod-borne pathogens in carnivorous birds from Brazil. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2021; 23:100539. [PMID: 33678392 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rickettsiales, Haemosporida and Rhizobiales agents can cause diseases that affect various animal species, including humans. Due to predation behaviour, carnivorous birds may play an important role in spreading these etiological agentes across geographically distant areas, specially if they are migratory. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence and to access the phylogenetic relations among Anaplasmataceae (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Neorickettsia), Bartonellaceae (Bartonella spp.), and Haemosporida (Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) agents in blood samples from 121 carnivorous birds sampled in the states of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Inclusions resembling hemoparasites were not observed in Giemsa-stained preparations. While three animals were seropositive for E. chaffeensis (3.41% [3/88]; 95% CI:1.17-9.55%), five showed antibodies to A. phagocytophilum (5.68% [5/88]; 95% CI: 2.45-12.62%). Despite the detection of rrs gene fragments closely related to E. chaffeensis (4.13% [5/121]; 95% CI: 1.78-9.31%), no positivity was observed in the qPCR based on the genes vlpt for the organism. Similarly, 12 (9.91% [12/121]; 95% CI: 5.76-16.74%) samples were positive in the qPCR for Anaplasma spp. based on groEL gene, but negative in the qPCR for A. phagocytophilum based on msp-2 gene. Three samples were positive in the nPCR for E. canis based on rrs gene. Three samples were positive for Haemoproteus spp. and one for Plasmodium spp. in the nPCR based on cytB gene. Four birds (3.3% [4/121]; 95% CI: 1.29-8.19%) presented co-positivity by Ehrlichia sp. and Anaplasma sp. in molecular assays. One (0.82% [1/121]; 95% CI:0.15-4.53%) bird showed to be seropositive for E. chaffeensis and and positive in PCR for Haemoproteus sp. All birds were negative in the qPCR assay for Bartonella spp. (nuoG). The present work showed the occurrence of Anaplasmataceae agents and hemosporidians in carnivorous birds from southeastern Brazil. The role of these animals in the dispersion of Anaplasmataceae agents should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Beatriz Vieira Sacchi
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Calchi
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariele de Santi
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andresa Guimarães
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica - Diagnóstico Animal, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jeferson Rocha Pires
- Centro de Recuperação de Animais Silvestres (CRAS), Universidade Estácio de Sá - UNESA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Divan Baldani
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica - Diagnóstico Animal, Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Karin Werther
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Patologia, Reproducao e Saude Unica, Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias/Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Guimarães LDO, Simões RF, Chagas CRF, de Menezes RMT, Silva FS, Monteiro EF, Holcman MM, Bajay MM, Pinter A, de Camargo-Neves VLF, Kirchgatter K. Assessing Diversity, Plasmodium Infection and Blood Meal Sources in Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from a Brazilian Zoological Park with Avian Malaria Transmission. INSECTS 2021; 12:215. [PMID: 33802320 PMCID: PMC7999885 DOI: 10.3390/insects12030215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Avian malaria parasites are widespread parasites transmitted by Culicidae insects belonging to different genera. Even though several studies have been conducted recently, there is still a lack of information about potential vectors of Plasmodium parasites, especially in Neotropical regions. Former studies with free-living and captive animals in São Paulo Zoo showed the presence of several Plasmodium and Haemoproteus species. In 2015, a pilot study was conducted at the zoo to collect mosquitoes in order to find out (i) which species of Culicidae are present in the study area, (ii) what are their blood meal sources, and (iii) to which Plasmodium species might they be potential vectors. Mosquitoes were morphologically and molecularly identified. Blood meal source and haemosporidian DNA were identified using molecular protocols. A total of 25 Culicidae species were identified, and 6 of them were positive for Plasmodium/Haemoproteus DNA. Ten mosquito species had their source of blood meal identified, which were mainly birds, including some species that were positive for haemosporidian parasites in the former study mentioned. This study allowed us to expand the list of potential vectors of avian malaria parasites and to improve our knowledge of the evolutionary and ecological relationships between the highly diverse communities of birds, parasites, and vectors present at São Paulo Zoo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilian de Oliveira Guimarães
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
| | - Roseli França Simões
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (E.F.M.)
| | - Carolina Romeiro Fernandes Chagas
- Nature Research Centre, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania;
- Applied Research Department, Zoological Park Foundation, São Paulo SP 04301-905, Brazil
| | - Regiane Maria Tironi de Menezes
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
| | - Fabiana Santos Silva
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (E.F.M.)
| | - Eliana Ferreira Monteiro
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (E.F.M.)
| | - Marcia Moreira Holcman
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
| | | | - Adriano Pinter
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
| | - Vera Lucia Fonseca de Camargo-Neves
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
| | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo SP 01027-000, Brazil; (L.d.O.G.); (R.M.T.d.M.); (F.S.S.); (M.M.H.); (A.P.); (V.L.F.d.C.-N.)
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (E.F.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Anjos CC, Chagas CRF, Fecchio A, Schunck F, Costa-Nascimento MJ, Monteiro EF, Mathias BS, Bell JA, Guimarães LO, Comiche KJM, Valkiūnas G, Kirchgatter K. Avian Malaria and Related Parasites from Resident and Migratory Birds in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, with Description of a New Haemoproteus Species. Pathogens 2021; 10:103. [PMID: 33494428 PMCID: PMC7912314 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining the prevalence and local transmission dynamics of parasitic organisms are necessary to understand the ability of parasites to persist in host populations and disperse across regions, yet local transmission dynamics, diversity, and distribution of haemosporidian parasites remain poorly understood. We studied the prevalence, diversity, and distributions of avian haemosporidian parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon among resident and migratory birds in Serra do Mar, Brazil. Using 399 blood samples from 66 Atlantic Forest bird species, we determined the prevalence and molecular diversity of these pathogens across avian host species and described a new species of Haemoproteus. Our molecular and morphological study also revealed that migratory species were infected more than residents. However, vector infective stages (gametocytes) of Leucocytozoon spp., the most prevalent parasites found in the most abundant migrating host species in Serra do Mar (Elaenia albiceps), were not seen in blood films of local birds suggesting that this long-distance Austral migrant can disperse Leucocytozoon parasite lineages from Patagonia to the Atlantic Forest, but lineage sharing among resident species and local transmission cannot occur in this part of Brazil. Our study demonstrates that migratory species may harbor a higher diversity and prevalence of parasites than resident species, but transportation of some parasites by migratory hosts may not always affect local transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina C. Anjos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil; (C.C.A.); (E.F.M.); (B.S.M.); (K.J.M.C.)
| | | | - Alan Fecchio
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia e Conservação da Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, Brazil;
| | - Fabio Schunck
- Comitê Brasileiro de Registros Ornitológicos—CBRO, São Paulo 04785-040, SP, Brazil;
| | - Maria J. Costa-Nascimento
- Núcleo de Estudos em Malária, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Eliana F. Monteiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil; (C.C.A.); (E.F.M.); (B.S.M.); (K.J.M.C.)
| | - Bruno S. Mathias
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil; (C.C.A.); (E.F.M.); (B.S.M.); (K.J.M.C.)
| | - Jeffrey A. Bell
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, 10 Cornell Street, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA;
| | - Lilian O. Guimarães
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, São Paulo 01027-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Kiba J. M. Comiche
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil; (C.C.A.); (E.F.M.); (B.S.M.); (K.J.M.C.)
| | | | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil; (C.C.A.); (E.F.M.); (B.S.M.); (K.J.M.C.)
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, São Paulo 01027-000, SP, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Thorel M, Chavatte JM, Landau I, Lemberger K, Leclerc A. First case of Plasmodium relictum lineage pGRW11 infection in a captive-bred common eider (Somateria Mollissima) in Europe. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100529. [PMID: 33678383 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A 4-year-old, female common Eider (Somateria mollissima) was presented for mild lethargy with no previous medical history. Numerous intraerythrocytic, round-shaped inclusions were visualized on blood smears, later morphologically identified as Plasmodium relictum parasites. Despite oral doxycycline treatment, clinical condition declined 48 h later. Supportive care was initiated, but the bird died rapidly. Necropsy revealed acute, internal hemorrhages (lungs, air sacs) and subcutaneous, diffuse cervical hematoma, associated with resuscitation attempts. Marked, multicentric amyloidosis (kidney, liver, spleen) was the main histological finding. Molecular analysis identified lineage pGRW11 of P. relictum. This is the first reported case of P. relictum lineage pGRW11 infection in a common Eider. This report describes the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and associated pathological findings of infection by P. relictum lineage pGRW11 in a common Eider.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Thorel
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher, France.
| | - Jean-Marc Chavatte
- UMR 7245 MCAM MNHN CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 61 rue Buffon, CP52, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France; Malaria Reference Centre - National Public Health Laboratory, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Health, Level 13, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308422, Singapore
| | - Irène Landau
- UMR 7245 MCAM MNHN CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 61 rue Buffon, CP52, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Karin Lemberger
- Vet Diagnostics, 3 Avenue de la Victoire, 69260 Charbonnières-les-Bains, France
| | - Antoine Leclerc
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Morel AP, Webster A, Prusch F, Anicet M, Marsicano G, Trainini G, Stocker J, Giani D, Bandarra PM, da Rocha MIS, Zitelli LC, Umeno KA, Souza UA, Dall'Agnol B, Reck J. Molecular detection and phylogenetic relationship of Haemosporida parasites in free-ranging wild raptors from Brazil. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100521. [PMID: 33678376 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The order Haemosporida is widely distributed parasitizing members of the Aves class. In birds of prey, infection with Plasmodium spp. parasites varies from an apathogenic form to a clinical syndrome. However, studies on Haemosporida in raptors from the neotropical region are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate natural infection by Plasmodium spp., Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. in free-ranging wild raptors from southern Brazil. For this, we sampled 206 individuals of 21 species: 94 live-trapped Southern Caracaras (Caracara plancus) and 112 raptors from other species that were brought to rehabilitation centers. The presence of infection was investigated using a nested-PCR for Haemosporida performed on blood samples. Overall, 56 out of 206 birds were positive for Plasmodium spp./Haemoproteus spp. Twenty-two percent (21/94) of the C. plancus samples were positive. Of the 112 wild raptors rescued, 31% (35/112) of those belonging to 15 other species tested positive. No sample was positive for Leucocytozoon spp. Herein, we demonstrated nine lineages of Haemosporidian parasites (eight Plasmodium sp. and one Haemoproteus sp.) in free-living species of Brazilian birds of prey, being six of them potential novel lineages. It suggests that information currently available on South-American haemosporidian from these birds greatly underestimate the potential lineage diversity in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Morel
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Anelise Webster
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabiane Prusch
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marina Anicet
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gleide Marsicano
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Trainini
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Julian Stocker
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Denise Giani
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Paulo Mota Bandarra
- Núcleo de Rabilitação de Fauna Silvestre-NURFS, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPEL), Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Larissa Caló Zitelli
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Karen Akemi Umeno
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ugo Araújo Souza
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dall'Agnol
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Barino GTM, Rossi MF, de Oliveira L, Reis Junior JL, D'Agosto M, Dias RJP. Haemoproteus syrnii (Haemosporida: Haemoproteidae) in owls from Brazil: morphological and molecular characterization, potential cryptic species, and exo-erythrocytic stages. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:243-255. [PMID: 33169308 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06958-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Haemoproteus syrnii is a haemosporidian parasite found in owls. Although morphological and molecular data on the species is available, its exo-erythrocytic development was never researched. In this study, we provide the morphological, morphometric, and molecular characterization of H. syrnii populations found in owl species from Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil. We also characterized the coalescent species delimitation based on the molecular and histopathology data. Samples from 54 owls from six different species were analyzed, generating 11 sequences of the cyt b gene, from which six were new sequences. The overall prevalence of infection was high (72.22%). The H. syrnii sequences were grouped into two well-supported independent clades, which included other Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) species. This was supported by both the coalescent species delimitation analysis and by the genetic divergence between lineages of these distinct clades. There were small morphological and morphometric differences within the population presented in this study. However, when compared with other studies, the molecular analysis demonstrated considerable intraspecific variation and suggests potential cryptic species. The histopathological analysis revealed, for the first time, that lungs and skeletal muscle are exo-erythrocytic stage location of H. syrnii, and that the parasite is linked to the histopathological changes found in owls. This study brings new data from Haemoproteus species biology and host infection, and improves host-parasite relationship understanding under an owl conservation perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glauber Thiago Martins Barino
- Laboratório de Protozoologia (LabProto), LAZ, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Mariana Fonseca Rossi
- Laboratório de Protozoologia (LabProto), LAZ, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Luísa de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Protozoologia (LabProto), LAZ, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Janildo Ludolf Reis Junior
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Marta D'Agosto
- Laboratório de Protozoologia (LabProto), LAZ, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Roberto Júnio Pedroso Dias
- Laboratório de Protozoologia (LabProto), LAZ, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, 36036-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pacheco MA, Parish CN, Hauck TJ, Aguilar RF, Escalante AA. The endangered California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) population is exposed to local haemosporidian parasites. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17947. [PMID: 33087805 PMCID: PMC7578645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74894-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The endangered California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is the largest New World Vulture in North America. Despite recovery program success in saving the species from extinction, condors remain compromised by lead poisoning and limited genetic diversity. The latter makes this species especially vulnerable to infectious diseases. Thus, taking advantage of the program of blood lead testing in Arizona, condor blood samples from 2008 to 2018 were screened for haemosporidian parasites using a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol that targets the parasite mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Plasmodium homopolare (Family Plasmodiidae, Order Haemosporida, Phylum Apicomplexa), was detected in condors captured in 2014 and 2017. This is the first report of a haemosporidian species infecting California Condors, and the first evidence of P. homopolare circulating in the Condor population from Arizona. Although no evidence of pathogenicity of P. homopolare in Condors was found, this study showed that the California Condors from Arizona are exposed to haemosporidian parasites that likely are spilling over from other local bird species. Thus, active surveillance should be an essential part of conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases, an increasingly recognized cause of global wildlife extinctions worldwide, particularly in avian populations considered vulnerable or endangered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Andreína Pacheco
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University (SERC - 645), 1925 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA.
| | - Chris N Parish
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Timothy J Hauck
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Roberto F Aguilar
- Tucson Wildlife Center, 13275 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ, 85748-7125, USA
| | - Ananias A Escalante
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University (SERC - 645), 1925 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nourani L, Djadid ND, Rabiee K, Mezerji MS, Shakiba M, Bakhshi H, Shokrollahi B, Farahani RK. Detection of haemosporidian parasites in wild and domestic birds in northern and central provinces of Iran: Introduction of new lineages and hosts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 13:203-212. [PMID: 33209581 PMCID: PMC7658667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Haemosporidian parasites characterize multi-host and multi-parasite structures which are prevalent among wild bird populations. Here, determination of host records, estimation of the prevalence and diversity of haemosporidian lineages were performed in wild and domestic birds in 11 provinces in Iran. To our knowledge, for the first time in this region, molecular characterization of haemosporidians in migratory water birds, raptors, and domestic birds was carried out: blood or tissue samples were collected from 246 birds belonging to 36 species, 12 families, and 11 orders. The prevalence of Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon were documented as 1.21%, 3.65%, and 0.4%, respectively. Of 36 birds' species inspected in this investigation, 13 individuals of 9 species were parasitized by blood parasites. To our knowledge, five lineages including hANACRE03, hAYTFER01, hAYTFER02, hAQUCYR01, and hSTAL06 were found as un-described lineages, while six known lineages of hLK03, pLK05, lTUSW04, pSW5, hMILANS02, and hHAECOL1 were recorded in hosts within novel geographical regions. Such results are required to fill the gaps in understanding the geographical distribution patterns of wildlife related vector-borne parasites in migratory birds as potential carriers, raptors with high vulnerability, and domestic birds as pet or with economic value. Molecular characterization of haemosporidians in migratory, raptors, and domestic birds. Eleven avian haemosporidian lineages discovered in new geographical regions of West Asia. Novelhost records of blood parasites in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nourani
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Koros Rabiee
- Mazandaran Provincial Office of the Department of Environment, Sari, Iran
| | | | | | - Hasan Bakhshi
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Borhan Shokrollahi
- Department of Animal Science, Veterinary School, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Reza Khaltabadi Farahani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Iranian Veterinary Organization, Tehran, Iran.,Molecular Biology Department, Pastuer Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Oliveira L, Dias RJP, Rossi MF, D'Agosto M, Santos HA. Molecular diversity and coalescent species delimitation of avian haemosporidian parasites in an endemic bird species of South America. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:4033-4047. [PMID: 33030600 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06908-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Haemoproteus spp. and Plasmodium spp. are blood parasites that occur in birds worldwide. Identifying the species within this group is complex, especially in wild birds that present low parasitemia when captured, making morphological identification very difficult. Thus, the use of alternative tools to identify species may be useful in the elucidation of the distribution of parasites that circulate in bird populations. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and parasitemia of the genera Plasmodium and Haemoproteus in Tachyphonus coronatus in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil, and to evaluate the molecular diversity, geographic distribution, and specificity of these parasites based on coalescent species delimitation methods. Microscopic analysis, PCR, cyt b gene sequencing, phylogenetic analysis and coalescent species delimitation using single-locus algorithms were performed (Poisson tree process (PTP) and multi-rate Poisson tree process (MPTP) methods). The analyses were performed in 117 avian host individuals. The prevalence was 55.5% for Plasmodium and 1.7% for Haemoproteus, with a mean parasitemia of 0.06%. Twenty-five Plasmodium and two Haemoproteus lineages were recovered. The MPTP method recovered seven different evolutionarily significant units (ESUs) of Plasmodium and one of Haemoproteus, whereas PTP presented fourteen ESUs of Plasmodium and one of Haemoproteus. The MPTP was more consistent with current taxonomy, while PTP overestimated the number of lineages. These ESUs are widely distributed and have already been found in 22 orders of birds that, all together, inhabit every continent, except Antarctica. The computational methods of species delimitation proved to be effective in cases where the classification of Haemosporida based just on morphology is insufficient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luísa Oliveira
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Roberto Júnio Pedroso Dias
- Department of Zoology (LabProto), Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.,Laboratory of Protozoology (LabProto), Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana F Rossi
- Department of Zoology (LabProto), Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil. .,Laboratory of Protozoology (LabProto), Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.
| | - Marta D'Agosto
- Department of Zoology (LabProto), Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Huarrisson A Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ciloglu A, Ergen AG, Inci A, Dik B, Duzlu O, Onder Z, Yetismis G, Bensch S, Valkiūnas G, Yildirim A. Prevalence and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites at an intersection point of bird migration routes: Sultan Marshes National Park, Turkey. Acta Trop 2020; 210:105465. [PMID: 32504592 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidians (Haemosporida) represent a globally distributed, species-rich multiparasite-multihost host-parasite system. Each year, many of these parasite lineages are carried between temperate and tropical regions by migratory birds. While several factors can limit the transmission of avian haemosporidians to new areas, recent studies have shown that some abundant parasites can sometimes disperse and be transmitted in new areas to become emerging infectious diseases. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in Sultan Marshes National Park (SMNP), a major stopover site in the eastern Mediterranean flyway, and we evaluated the potential for avian haemosporidians in SMNP to be transmitted to areas outside of their known distributions. We sampled a total of 565 migratory and resident birds belonging to 39 species and 23 families. We applied both molecular and microscopic methods to detect and identify avian haemosporidian infections and also quantified the frequency of potential abortive infections. We identified a total of 52 different mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) parasite lineages belonging to the genera Plasmodium (N = 12), Haemoproteus (N = 31), and Leucocytozoon (N = 9) in 193 (34.2%) infected birds. Ten of the lineages were reported for the first time. Our findings show that numerous parasite lineages are actively transmitted among resident bird species of SMNP. Our findings also revealed new parasite-host interactions while considering the role of possible abortive infections. The relatively high frequency of presumed abortive infections suggests that analyses of datasets generated only by PCR-based methods should be interpreted with caution. We also compared the prevalence and distribution of avian haemosporidian infections in both resident and migratory bird species and showed that haemosporidian prevalence was related to bird migratory behavior. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the ecological and genetic adaptations associated with changes in transmission areas of avian haemosporidian parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arif Ciloglu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Arzu Gursoy Ergen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ankara University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Inci
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Bilal Dik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Onder Duzlu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Zuhal Onder
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Yetismis
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Staffan Bensch
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, Department of Biology, Lund University, S-22362, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Alparslan Yildirim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey; Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Implementation and Research Center, Erciyes University, 38039, Kayseri, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Harl J, Himmel T, Valkiūnas G, Ilgūnas M, Bakonyi T, Weissenböck H. Geographic and host distribution of haemosporidian parasite lineages from birds of the family Turdidae. Malar J 2020; 19:335. [PMID: 32933526 PMCID: PMC7491118 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03408-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Haemosporidians (Apicomplexa, Protista) are obligate heteroxenous parasites of vertebrates and blood-sucking dipteran insects. Avian haemosporidians comprise more than 250 species traditionally classified into four genera, Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, and Fallisia. However, analyses of the mitochondrial CytB gene revealed a vast variety of lineages not yet linked to morphospecies. This study aimed to analyse and discuss the data of haemosporidian lineages isolated from birds of the family Turdidae, to visualise host and geographic distribution using DNA haplotype networks and to suggest directions for taxonomy research on parasite species. Methods Haemosporidian CytB sequence data from 350 thrushes were analysed for the present study and complemented with CytB data of avian haemosporidians gathered from Genbank and MalAvi database. Maximum Likelihood trees were calculated to identify clades featuring lineages isolated from Turdidae species. For each clade, DNA haplotype networks were calculated and provided with information on host and geographic distribution. Results In species of the Turdidae, this study identified 82 Plasmodium, 37 Haemoproteus, and 119 Leucocytozoon lineages, 68, 28, and 112 of which are mainly found in this host group. Most of these lineages cluster in the clades, which are shown as DNA haplotype networks. The lineages of the Leucocytozoon clades were almost exclusively isolated from thrushes and usually were restricted to one host genus, whereas the Plasmodium and Haemoproteus networks featured multiple lineages also recovered from other passeriform and non-passeriform birds. Conclusion This study represents the first attempt to summarise information on the haemosporidian parasite lineages of a whole bird family. The analyses allowed the identification of numerous groups of related lineages, which have not been linked to morphologically defined species yet, and they revealed several cases in which CytB lineages were probably assigned to the wrong morphospecies. These taxonomic issues are addressed by comparing distributional patterns of the CytB lineages with data from the original species descriptions and further literature. The authors also discuss the availability of sequence data and emphasise that MalAvi database should be considered an extremely valuable addition to GenBank, but not a replacement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josef Harl
- Institute of Pathology, Department for Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Tanja Himmel
- Institute of Pathology, Department for Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Támas Bakonyi
- Institute of Virology, Department for Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Weissenböck
- Institute of Pathology, Department for Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Simões RF, Wilke ABB, Chagas CRF, de Menezes RMT, Suesdek L, Multini LC, Silva FS, Grech MG, Marrelli MT, Kirchgatter K. Wing Geometric Morphometrics as a Tool for the Identification of Culex Subgenus Mosquitoes of Culex (Diptera: Culicidae). INSECTS 2020; 11:E567. [PMID: 32854183 PMCID: PMC7563313 DOI: 10.3390/insects11090567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Culex is the largest subgenus within the genus Culex that includes important vectors of diseases. The correct identification of mosquitoes is critical for effective control strategies. Wing geometric morphometrics (WGM) has been used to identify mosquito species alongside traditional identification methods. Here, WGM was used for eleven Culex species from São Paulo, Brazil, and one from Esquel, Argentina. Adult mosquitoes were collected using CDC (Centers for Disease Control) traps, morphologically identified and analyzed by WGM. The canonical variate analysis (CVA) was performed and a Neighbor-joining (NJ) tree was constructed to illustrate the patterns of species segregation. A cross-validated reclassification test was also carried out. From 110 comparisons in the cross-validated reclassification test, 87 yielded values higher than 70%, with 13 comparisons yielding 100% reclassification scores. Culexquinquefasciatus yielded the highest reclassification scores among the analyzed species, corroborating with the results obtained by the CVA, in which Cx. quinquefasciatus was the most distinct species. The high values obtained at the cross-validated reclassification test and in the NJ analysis as well as the segregation observed at the CVA made it possible to distinguish among Culex species with high degrees of confidence, suggesting that WGM is a reliable tool to identify Culex species of the subgenus Culex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roseli França Simões
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (L.S.); (F.S.S.); (M.T.M.)
| | - André Barretto Bruno Wilke
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Carolina Romeiro Fernandes Chagas
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Vilnius 08412, Lithuania;
- Applied Research Department, Zoological Park Foundation, São Paulo, SP 04301-905, Brazil
| | - Regiane Maria Tironi de Menezes
- Department of Specialized Laboratories, Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo, SP 01027-000, Brazil;
| | - Lincoln Suesdek
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (L.S.); (F.S.S.); (M.T.M.)
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Laura Cristina Multini
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 01246-904, Brazil;
| | - Fabiana Santos Silva
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (L.S.); (F.S.S.); (M.T.M.)
- Department of Specialized Laboratories, Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo, SP 01027-000, Brazil;
| | - Marta Gladys Grech
- Centro de Investigación Esquel de Montaña y Estepa Patagónica (CIEMEP), CONICET and UNPSJB, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Ciencias de la Salud, Sede Esquel, Esquel 9200, Chubut, Argentina;
| | - Mauro Toledo Marrelli
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (L.S.); (F.S.S.); (M.T.M.)
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 01246-904, Brazil;
| | - Karin Kirchgatter
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil; (R.F.S.); (L.S.); (F.S.S.); (M.T.M.)
- Department of Specialized Laboratories, Superintendence for Endemic Disease Control, SUCEN, São Paulo, SP 01027-000, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Martínez-de la Puente J, Soriguer R, Senar JC, Figuerola J, Bueno-Mari R, Montalvo T. Mosquitoes in an Urban Zoo: Identification of Blood Meals, Flight Distances of Engorged Females, and Avian Malaria Infections. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:460. [PMID: 32974390 PMCID: PMC7472536 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoological gardens are home to a large number of vertebrate species and as such are suitable sites for both mosquito breeding and maintenance. They are excellent places for entomological studies of mosquito phenology, diversity, and blood-feeding patterns, as well as for xenomonitoring. During 2016, we sampled mosquitoes in Barcelona Zoo and used molecular methods to determine their blood-feeding patterns and the prevalence and diversity of avian malaria parasites. We also estimated the flight distance of engorged mosquitoes in the area. Overall, 1,384 adult Culex pipiens s.l., Culiseta longiareolata, and Aedes albopictus were captured. Birds dominated the diet of Cx. pipiens s.l. (n = 87) and Cs. longiareolata (n = 6), while humans were the only blood-meal source of Ae. albopictus (n = 3). Mosquitoes had a mean flight distance of 95.67 m after feeding on blood (range 38.71–168.51 m). Blood parasites were detected in the abdomen of 13 engorged Cx. pipiens s.l., eight of which had fed on magpies. Four Plasmodium lineages and a single lineage of the malaria-like parasite Haemoproteus were identified. These results suggest that Cx. pipiens s.l. is involved in the local transmission of avian Plasmodium, which potentially affects the circulation of parasites between and within wildlife and enclosed animals. Vigilance regarding possible mosquito breeding sites in this zoo is thus recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josué Martínez-de la Puente
- Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramón Soriguer
- Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Senar
- Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology Research Unit, Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Figuerola
- Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rubén Bueno-Mari
- Laboratorios Lokímica, Departamento de Investigación y Desarrollo (I+D), Valencia, Spain
| | - Tomás Montalvo
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Agencia de Salud Pública de Barcelona, Consorci Sanitari de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bell JA, González-Acuña D, Tkach VV. Haemosporidian Parasites of Chilean Ducks: The Importance of Biogeography and Nonpasserine Hosts. J Parasitol 2020; 106:211-220. [PMID: 32164026 DOI: 10.1645/19-130] [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] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Biogeography is known to have shaped the diversity and evolutionary history of avian haemosporidian parasites across the Neotropics. However, a paucity of information exists for the temperate Neotropics and especially from nonpasserine hosts. To understand the effect of biogeography in the temperate Neotropics on haemosporidians of nonpasserine hosts we screened ducks (Anseriformes) from central Chile for the presence of these parasites. Forty-two individuals of 4 duck species (Anas flavirostris, Anas georgica, Mareca sibilatrix, Spatula cyanoptera cyanoptera) were collected and assessed for haemosporidian parasite infections by real-time polymerase chain reaction screening and subsequent sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Haemoproteus (subgenus Haemoproteus) and Plasmodium were detected in 2 host species, A. georgica and S. c. cyanoptera, with no Leucocytozoon found. Overall haemosporidian prevalence was low (14.2%), with the prevalence of Plasmodium (11.9%) being substantially greater than that of Haemoproteus (4.8%). Six haemosporidian cytochrome b lineages were recovered, 2 Haemoproteus and 4 Plasmodium, with all 6 lineages identified for the first time. In phylogenetic reconstruction, the Chilean Plasmodium lineages were more closely related to South American lineages from passerine birds than to known lineages from anseriforms. The subgenus Haemoproteus known from nonpasseriformes has never been identified from any anseriform host; however, we recovered 2 lineages from this subgenus, one from each A. georgica and S. c. cyanoptera. Further work is needed to determine if this presents true parasitism in ducks or only a spillover infection. The results of phylogenetic reconstruction demonstrate a unique evolutionary history of these Chilean parasites, differing from what is known for this host group. The unique geography of Chile, with a large part of the country being relatively isolated by the Atacama Desert in the north and the Andes in the east and south, would present opportunities for parasite diversification. Further work is needed to investigate how strongly the biogeographical isolation has shaped the haemosporidian parasites of this area. Our results add to the growing body of evidence that nonpasserine hosts support unique lineages of haemosporidian parasites, while also demonstrating the role of biogeography in haemosporidian parasite diversity in the temperate Neotropics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Bell
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, 10 Cornell Street STOP 9019, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202
| | - Daniel González-Acuña
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Box 10 537, Chillán 3780000, Chile
| | - Vasyl V Tkach
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, 10 Cornell Street STOP 9019, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Taroda A, Barros LDD, Seixas MD, Cardim ST, Sasse JP, Minutti AF, Vidotto O, Garcia JL. First molecular detection of Haemoproteus spp. and Plasmodium spp. in eared doves (Zenaida auriculata) in Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 29:e000920. [PMID: 32667500 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to verify the presence and identify the species of haemosporidian parasites in eared doves (Zenaida auriculata) in Brazil. Two hundred and eleven male and female eared doves were trap-captured in four different regions of Londrina city, in southern Brazil. Whole blood was collected in EDTA tubes through heart puncture after euthanasia in a CO2 chamber. A nested PCR targeting the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (cyt b) of Haemoproteus spp./Plasmodium spp. was performed, followed by an enzymatic digestion to identify the genus. Phylogenetic trees were constructed to determine the closely related species. Out of 211 eared doves, 209 (99.05%) were positive for Haemoproteus spp. and/or Plasmodium spp. RFLP analysis showed that 72.72% (152/209) of eared doves were positive only for Haemoproteus spp., 6.22% (13/209) were positive only for Plasmodium spp., and 21.05% (44/209) of eared doves had mixed infections. Genetic analysis found four samples that were homologous with Haemoproteus multipigmentatus and one that was homologous with Plasmodium sp. This is the first molecular study of hemoparasites from eared doves in Brazil, and it is also the first description of H. multipigmentatus and Plasmodium spp. infection in eared doves in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Taroda
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Luiz Daniel de Barros
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Mércia de Seixas
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Sérgio Tosi Cardim
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - João Pedro Sasse
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Ana Flávia Minutti
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Odilon Vidotto
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - João Luis Garcia
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Evolutionary ecology, taxonomy, and systematics of avian malaria and related parasites. Acta Trop 2020; 204:105364. [PMID: 32007445 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Haemosporidian parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon, and Haemoproteus are one of the most prevalent and widely studied groups of parasites infecting birds. Plasmodium is the most well-known haemosporidian as the avian parasite Plasmodium relictum was the original transmission model for human malaria and was also responsible for catastrophic effects on native avifauna when introduced to Hawaii. The past two decades have seen a dramatic increase in research on avian haemosporidian parasites as a model system to understand evolutionary and ecological parasite-host relationships. Despite haemosporidians being one the best studied groups of avian parasites their specialization among avian hosts and variation in prevalence amongst regions and host taxa are not fully understood. In this review we focus on describing the current phylogenetic and morphological diversity of haemosporidian parasites, their specificity among avian and vector hosts, and identifying the determinants of haemosporidian prevalence among avian species. We also discuss how these parasites might spread across regions due to global climate change and the importance of avian migratory behavior in parasite dispersion and subsequent diversification.
Collapse
|
39
|
Chagas CRF, Binkienė R, Ilgūnas M, Iezhova T, Valkiūnas G. The buffy coat method: a tool for detection of blood parasites without staining procedures. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:104. [PMID: 32103784 PMCID: PMC7045512 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3984-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood parasites belonging to the Apicomplexa, Trypanosomatidae and Filarioidea are widespread in birds and have been studied extensively. Microscopical examination (ME) of stained blood films remains the gold standard method for the detection of these infections in birds, particularly because co-infections predominate in wildlife. None of the available molecular tools can detect all co-infections at the same time, but ME provides opportunities for this to be achieved. However, fixation, drying and staining of blood films as well as their ME are relatively time-consuming. This limits the detection of infected hosts during fieldwork when captured animals should be released soon after sampling. It is an obstacle for quick selection of donor hosts for parasite experimental, histological and other investigations in the field. This study modified, tested and described the buffy coat method (BCM) for quick diagnostics (~ 20 min/sample) of avian blood parasites. METHODS Blood of 345 birds belonging to 42 species was collected, and each sample was examined using ME of stained blood films and the buffy coat, which was examined after centrifugation in capillary tubes and after being transferred to objective glass slides. Parasite detection using these methods was compared using sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and Cohen's kappa index. RESULTS Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium, microfilariae, Trypanosoma and Lankesterella parasites were detected. BCM had a high sensitivity (> 90%) and specificity (> 90%) for detection of Haemoproteus and microfilariae infections. It was of moderate sensitivity (57%) and high specificity (> 90%) for Lankesterella infections, but of low sensitivity (20%) and high specificity (> 90%) for Leucocytozoon infections. Trypanosoma and Plasmodium parasites were detected only by BCM and ME, respectively. According to Cohen's kappa index, the agreement between two diagnostic tools was substantial for Haemoproteus (0.80), moderate for Lankesterella (0.46) and fair for microfilariae and Leucocytozoon (0.28) infections. CONCLUSIONS BCM is sensitive and recommended as a quick and reliable tool to detect Haemoproteus, Trypanosoma and microfilariae parasites during fieldwork. However, it is not suitable for detection of species of Leucocytozoon and Plasmodium. BCM is a useful tool for diagnostics of blood parasite co-infections. Its application might be extended to studies of blood parasites in other vertebrates during field studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rasa Binkienė
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tatjana Iezhova
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Epidemiology, hematology, and unusual morphological characteristics of Plasmodium during an avian malaria outbreak in penguins in Brazil. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:3497-3508. [PMID: 31720833 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06459-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Avian malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Plasmodium spp. protozoa, and penguins are considered particularly susceptible to this disease, developing rapid outbreaks with potentially high mortality. We report on an outbreak of avian malaria in Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) at a rehabilitation center in Espírito Santo, southeast Brazil. In August and September 2015, a total of 89 Magellanic penguins (87 juveniles and 2 adults) received care at Institute of Research and Rehabilitation of Marine Animals. Over a period of 2 weeks, Plasmodium infections were identified in eight individuals (9.0%), four of which died (mortality = 4.5%, lethality = 50%). Blood smears and sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene revealed the presence of Plasmodium lutzi SPMAG06, Plasmodium elongatum GRW06, Plasmodium sp. PHPAT01, Plasmodium sp. SPMAG10, and Plasmodium cathemerium (sequencing not successful). Two unusual morphological features were observed in individuals infected with lineage SPMAG06: (a) lack of clumping of pigment granules and (b) presence of circulating exoerythrocytic meronts. Hematological results (packed cell volume, plasma total solids, complete blood cell counts) of positive individuals showed differences from those of negative individuals depending on the lineages, but there was no overarching pattern consistently observed for all Plasmodium spp. The epidemiology of the outbreak and the phylogeography of the parasite lineages detected in this study support the notion that malarial infections in penguins undergoing rehabilitation in Brazil are the result of the spillover inoculation by plasmodia that circulate in the local avifauna, especially Passeriformes.
Collapse
|
41
|
Chagas CRF, Bukauskaitė D, Ilgūnas M, Bernotienė R, Iezhova T, Valkiūnas G. Sporogony of four Haemoproteus species (Haemosporida: Haemoproteidae), with report of in vitro ookinetes of Haemoproteus hirundinis: phylogenetic inference indicates patterns of haemosporidian parasite ookinete development. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:422. [PMID: 31462309 PMCID: PMC6714444 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3679-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) species (Haemoproteidae) are widespread blood parasites that can cause disease in birds, but information about their vector species, sporogonic development and transmission remain fragmentary. This study aimed to investigate the complete sporogonic development of four Haemoproteus species in Culicoides nubeculosus and to test if phylogenies based on the cytochrome b gene (cytb) reflect patterns of ookinete development in haemosporidian parasites. Additionally, one cytb lineage of Haemoproteus was identified to the species level and the in vitro gametogenesis and ookinete development of Haemoproteus hirundinis was characterised. METHODS Laboratory-reared C. nubeculosus were exposed by allowing them to take blood meals on naturally infected birds harbouring single infections of Haemoproteus belopolskyi (cytb lineage hHIICT1), Haemoproteus hirundinis (hDELURB2), Haemoproteus nucleocondensus (hGRW01) and Haemoproteus lanii (hRB1). Infected insects were dissected at intervals in order to detect sporogonic stages. In vitro exflagellation, gametogenesis and ookinete development of H. hirundinis were also investigated. Microscopic examination and PCR-based methods were used to confirm species identity. Bayesian phylogenetic inference was applied to study the relationships among Haemoproteus lineages. RESULTS All studied parasites completed sporogony in C. nubeculosus. Ookinetes and sporozoites were found and described. Development of H. hirundinis ookinetes was similar both in vivo and in vitro. Developing ookinetes of this parasite possess long outgrowths, which extend longitudinally and produce the apical end of the ookinetes. A large group of closely related Haemoproteus species with a similar mode of ookinete development was determined. Bayesian analysis indicates that this character has phylogenetic value. The species identity of cytb lineage hDELURB2 was determined: it belongs to H. hirundinis. CONCLUSIONS Culicoides nubeculosus is susceptible to and is a likely natural vector of numerous species of Haemoproteus parasites, thus worth attention in haemoproteosis epidemiology research. Data about in vitro development of haemoproteids provide valuable information about the rate of ookinete maturation and are recommended to use as helpful step during vector studies of haemosporidian parasites, particularly because they guide proper dissection interval of infected insects for ookinete detection during in vivo experiments. Additionally, in vitro studies readily identified patterns of morphological ookinete transformations, the characters of which are of phylogenetic value in haemosporidian parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dovilė Bukauskaitė
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Rasa Bernotienė
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tatjana Iezhova
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Gediminas Valkiūnas
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, LT-08412, Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Pornpanom P, Fernandes Chagas CR, Lertwatcharasarakul P, Kasorndorkbua C, Valkiūnas G, Salakij C. Molecular prevalence and phylogenetic relationship of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites of owls in Thailand: Data from a rehabilitation centre. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 9:248-257. [PMID: 31211047 PMCID: PMC6562296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Owls are nocturnal raptors that are prevalently infected with haemosporidian parasites wordwide. These birds were commonly submitted to the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Kasetsart University, Thailand and were examined using PCR-based methods for the presence of haemosporidian infections of by the genera Plasmodium and Haemoproteus. Blood samples from 167 individual owls belonging to 12 species common in Thailand were collected between September 2012 and February 2018. The overall prevalence of haemosporidians was 34.1%, with Haemoproteus infections (25.1%) being more prevalent than Plasmodium infections (9.0%). The prevalence of both Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites was similar in all seasons of the year. Molecular characterization revealed 17 new haemosporidian parasite lineages (11 Haemoproteus and six Plasmodium), with genetic variation among partial cytochrome b sequences ranging from 0.0% to 3.6% in Haemoproteus lineages and 0.2%–8.8% in Plasmodium lineages. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all Haemoproteus lineages detected in owls appeared in one well-supported clade together with other parasites belonging to the Parahaemoproteus subgenus, indicating their close evolutionary relationship and common transmission modality by Culicoides biting midges. This study showes the existence of prominent non-described haemosporidian parasite diversity in Thai owls and provides baseline molecular information for further research on the genetic diversity of owl haemosporidian parasites. New DNA sequence information can be used for the diagnosis of owl infections, which have been often reported during rehabilitation planning. Molecular prevalence of haemosporidian parasites in owls from Thailand was high. Haemoproteus and Plasmodium infections in owls were found in all seasons of Thailand. Seventeen new haemosporidian parasite lineages were isolated from Thai owls. Cytochrome b sequences showed genetic variable of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in owls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pornchai Pornpanom
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | - Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.,Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Chaleow Salakij
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Chaisi ME, Osinubi ST, Dalton DL, Suleman E. Occurrence and diversity of avian haemosporidia in Afrotropical landbirds. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2019; 8:36-44. [PMID: 30619708 PMCID: PMC6312862 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian infections are widespread and can result in the decline of wild bird populations or in some cases contribute to extinction of species. We determined the prevalence and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidia in 93 samples from 22 landbird species from South Africa (N = 76) and West Africa (N = 17), of which six are intra-African migrants and one is a Palearctic migrant. The samples were analysed for the presence of avian haemosporidian DNA using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and nested PCR assays targeting specific mitochondrial genes of these parasites. The cytochrome b (cytb) gene was sequenced for all samples that tested positive and phylogenetic analysis was conducted in order to determine the relationship of the new sequences with previously published sequences from the MalAvi database. The overall prevalence of avian haemosporidiosis was 68.82% (95% CI: 56.4%-78.87%) and 82.80% (95% CI: 65.68%-86.11%) as determined by qPCR and nested PCR respectively. Eighteen (19.36%; 95% CI; 10.78%-29.97%) samples had mixed infections. Infection prevalence of all haemosporidian spp. were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in samples from West Africa. Forty-six mitochondrial sequences obtained from 14 avian species grouped into three distinct clusters of Haemoproteus (36), Leucocytozoon (8) and Plasmodium (2). These represent eight published and nine new cytb lineages. The most common lineage was Haemoproteus sp. (VIMWE1) which was identified in two bird species from West Africa and seven bird species from South Africa. This study adds to our knowledge of host-parasite relationships of avian haemosporidia of Afrotropical birds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mamohale E. Chaisi
- Department of Research and Scientific Services, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), 232 Boom Street, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Samuel T. Osinubi
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Desire L. Dalton
- Department of Research and Scientific Services, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), 232 Boom Street, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Essa Suleman
- Department of Research and Scientific Services, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), 232 Boom Street, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), P.O. Box 395, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Moreno Mañas E, Gonzálvez Juan M, Ruiz de Ybáñez Carnero MDR, Gilbert T, Ortiz J, Espeso G, Benzal J, Ibáñez B, Valera Hernández F. Survey of husbandry practices for bovidae in zoos: the importance of parasite management for reintroduction programmes. Vet Rec 2019; 184:282. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.104985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia Moreno Mañas
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y EvolutivaEstación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeriaSpain
| | - Moisés Gonzálvez Juan
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de VeterinariaUniversidad de MurciaMurciaSpain
| | | | | | - Juana Ortiz
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de VeterinariaUniversidad de MurciaMurciaSpain
| | - Gerardo Espeso
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y EvolutivaEstación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeriaSpain
| | - Jesús Benzal
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y EvolutivaEstación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeriaSpain
| | - Belén Ibáñez
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y EvolutivaEstación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeriaSpain
| | - Francisco Valera Hernández
- Departamento de Ecología Funcional y EvolutivaEstación Experimental de Zonas Áridas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasAlmeriaSpain
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Schumm YR, Wecker C, Marek C, Wassmuth M, Bentele A, Willems H, Reiner G, Quillfeldt P. Blood parasites in Passeriformes in central Germany: prevalence and lineage diversity of Haemosporida ( Haemoproteus, Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon) in six common songbirds. PeerJ 2019; 6:e6259. [PMID: 30723612 PMCID: PMC6360073 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Avian Haemosporida are vector-borne parasites that commonly infect Passeriformes. Molecular analyses revealed a high number of different lineages and lineage specific traits like prevalence and host-specificity, but knowledge of parasite prevalence and lineage diversity in wild birds in Central Germany is still lacking. Results Blood samples from a total of 238 adult and 122 nestling songbirds belonging to six species were investigated for infections with avian haemosporidian genera and lineages (Haemoproteus spp., Plasmodium spp., Leucocytozoon spp.) and Trypanosoma avium using PCR, targeting the parasite mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and 18S ribosomal RNA. In total, the prevalence in adult birds was 31.3% infected with Haemoproteus, 12.5% with Plasmodium and 71.0% with Leucocytozoon (nestlings excluded). None of the tested birds was infected with Trypanosoma avium. Only in two nestling birds, aged 12–17 days, a Leucocytozoon spp. infection was proven. Among 225 successfully sequenced samples, we found four Haemoproteus, three Plasmodium and 19 Leucocytozoon lineages, including two new Leucocytozoon lineages. Furthermore, we report two new host-lineage associations. Conclusions As first study investigating avian haemosporidian parasites in Central Germany, we provide new information on genetic diversity of Haemosporida infecting Passeriformes. We show that even with a small sample size new lineages as well as previously unknown linkages between certain lineages and host species can be detected. This may help to elucidate the diversity of lineages as well as lineage-host-connections of avian Haemosporida.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne R Schumm
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christine Wecker
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carina Marek
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mareike Wassmuth
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anna Bentele
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hermann Willems
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gerald Reiner
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Petra Quillfeldt
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Avian malaria on Madagascar: prevalence, biodiversity and specialization of haemosporidian parasites. Int J Parasitol 2018; 49:199-210. [PMID: 30471288 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies about geographic patterns of species diversity of avian malaria parasites and others in the Order Haemosporida did not include the avian biodiversity hotspot Madagascar. Since there are few data available on avian malaria parasites on Madagascar, we conducted the first known large-scale molecular-based study to investigate their biodiversity. Samples (1067) from 55 bird species were examined by a PCR method amplifying nearly the whole haemosporidian cytochrome b gene (1063 bp). The parasite lineages found were further characterized phylogenetically and the degree of specialization was determined with a newly introduced host diversity index (Hd). Our results demonstrate that Madagascar indeed represents a biodiversity hotspot for avian malaria parasites as we detected 71 genetically distinct parasite lineages of the genera Plasmodium and Haemoproteus. Furthermore, by using a phylogenetic approach and including the sequence divergence we suspect that the detected haemosporidian lineages represent at least 29 groups i.e. proposed species. The here presented Hd values for each parasite regarding host species, genus and family strongly support previous works demonstrating the elastic host ranges of some avian parsites of the Order Haemosporida. Representatives of the avian parasite genera Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon tend to more often be generalists than those of the genus Haemoproteus. However, as demonstrated in various examples, there is a large overlap and single parasite lineages frequently deviate from this rule.
Collapse
|
47
|
Nourani L, Aliabadian M, Mirshamsi O, Dinparast Djadid N. Molecular detection and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in Iran. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206638. [PMID: 30412593 PMCID: PMC6226148 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mobility of birds across or between continents exposes them to numerous vectors that have the potential to transmit pathogens and spread them into new regions. A combination of rich species diversity of birds along with the small amount of molecular studies in Iran makes observing the blood parasite distribution in wild avian populations indispensable for further estimation and administration of blood parasites. Methodology/Principal findings In order to evaluate the infection rate and molecular context of avian blood parasites, bird samples were collected (passerine = 316 and non-passerine = 14) in eight provinces of northern Iran between June to September 2015 and 2016. All bird samples were examined for haematoprotozoan infections by morphological screening using light microscope and mtDNA cytb gene amplification. A total of 115 birds were positive for blood parasites by molecular approach (34.84% overall infection). The infection rate of Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon were 33.03%, 1.21%, and 0.6%, respectively. Sequences analysis has detected 43 lineages in Iranian birds’ hosts. Lineages were attributed to three genera Haemoproteus (n = 37), Plasmodium (n = 4), and Leucocytozoon (n = 2), of which 23 lineages fully matched previously recorded sequences in GenBank and MalAvi data reciprocities. Five lineages of ACDUM1, ACDUM2, PARUS1, PYERY01, and SISKIN1 were detected in multiple hosts’ species from dissimilar families. In Bayesian tree, all sequences were clustered in three main monophyletic clades as Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon genera. Conclusions/Significance As the first study outlining the molecular detection of hematozoa of passerines from Iran, the current study has recorded 20 new lineages for three genera of Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon. Additional investigations into these taxa in the avifauna for the other parts of Iran may provide extra information on blood parasites, hosts relationships and distribution patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nourani
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- * E-mail: (MA); (LN)
| | - Mansour Aliabadian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- Research Department of Zoological Innovations, Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- * E-mail: (MA); (LN)
| | - Omid Mirshamsi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
- Research Department of Zoological Innovations, Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Chagas CRF, Bukauskaitė D, Ilgūnas M, Iezhova T, Valkiūnas G. A new blood parasite of leaf warblers: molecular characterization, phylogenetic relationships, description and identification of vectors. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:538. [PMID: 30286800 PMCID: PMC6172721 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3109-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood parasites of the genus Haemoproteus Kruse, 1890 are cosmopolitan, might be responsible for mortality in non-adapted birds, and often kill blood-sucking insects. However, this group remains insufficiently investigated in the wild. This is particularly true for the parasites of leaf warblers of the Phylloscopidae Alström, Ericson, Olsson & Sundberg the common small Old World passerine birds whose haemoproteid parasite diversity and vectors remain poorly studied. This study reports a new species of Haemoproteus parasitizing leaf warblers, its susceptible vector and peculiar phylogenetic relationships with other haemoproteids. METHODS Wood warblers (Phylloscopus sibilatrix Bechstein) were caught in Lithuania during spring migration, and blood films were examined microscopically. Laboratory reared Culicoides nubeculosus Meigen were exposed experimentally by allowing them to take blood meals on one individual harbouring mature gametocytes of the new Haemoproteus species (lineage hPHSIB2). To follow sporogonic development, the engorged insects were dissected at intervals. The parasite lineage was distinguished using sequence data, and morphological analysis of blood and sporogonic stages was carried out. Bayesian phylogeny was constructed in order to determine the phylogenetic relationships of the new parasite with other haemoproteids. RESULTS Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) homopalloris n. sp. was common in wood warblers sampled after arrival to Europe from their wintering grounds in Africa. The new parasite belongs to a group of avian haemoproteid species with macrogametocytes possessing pale staining cytoplasm. All species of this group clustered together in the phylogenetic analysis, indicating that intensity of the cytoplasm staining is a valuable phylogenetic character. Laboratory-reared biting midges C. nubeculosus readily supported sporogony of new infections. Phylogenetic analysis corroborated vector experiments, placing the new parasite in the clade of Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) parasites transmitted by biting midges. CONCLUSIONS Haemoproteus homopalloris n. sp. is the third haemoproteid, which is described from and is prevalent in wood warblers. Phylogenetic analysis identified a clade containing seven haemoproteids, which are characterised by pale staining of the macrogametocyte cytoplasm and with ookinetes maturing exceptionally rapidly (between 1 to 1.5 h after exposure to air). Both these features may represent valuable phylogenetic characters. Studies targeting mechanisms of sporogonic development of haemoproteids remain uncommon and should be encouraged. Culicoides nubeculosus is an excellent experimental vector of the new parasite species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dovilė Bukauskaitė
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 21, LT-09412 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mikas Ilgūnas
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 21, LT-09412 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tatjana Iezhova
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 21, LT-09412 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Gediminas Valkiūnas
- Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos 2, 21, LT-09412 Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
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
|
50
|
Chahad-Ehlers S, Fushita AT, Lacorte GA, Assis PCPD, Del Lama SN. Effects of habitat suitability for vectors, environmental factors and host characteristics on the spatial distribution of the diversity and prevalence of haemosporidians in waterbirds from three Brazilian wetlands. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:276. [PMID: 29716645 PMCID: PMC5930942 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2847-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Wetlands are ecosystems in which vectors of avian haemosporidians live and reproduce and where waterbirds join to breed in colonies. Brazil has wetlands at different latitudes, which enables testing the influence of the ecological factors on the prevalence and diversity of haemosporidians. We identified avian haemosporidians in waterbird species in three wetlands and investigated the effects of vector habitat suitability, landscape and host characteristics on the diversity and prevalence of these parasites. Methods We created a map with the probability of occurrence of avian haemosporidian vectors using maximum-entropy modelling based on references addressing species known to be vectors of haemosporidians in birds in Brazil. We determined the prevalence and diversity index of haemosporidians in the great egret (Ardea alba) (n = 129) and roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) (n = 180) and compared the findings to data for the wood stork (Mycteria americana) (n = 199). Results We report the first record of Plasmodium in the family Threskiornithidae: four lineages in the roseate spoonbill, which also presented one lineage of Haemoproteus. In the family Ardeidae, we found three Plasmodium lineages in the great egret. The similar habitat suitability for vectors found in three wetlands explains the pattern of haemosporidian diversity determined for great egret and wood stork populations. Comparisons of haemosporidian diversity within each waterbird species and between regions showed a higher level in the central-western roseate spoonbill population than in the northern population (P = 0.021). Removing the host effect, we discussed the results obtained in terms of characteristics of the Pantanal region. Comparisons of Plasmodium spp. prevalence among waterbird species within the same wetland showed higher level in roseate spoonbill (74%) than those found in the great egret (21%) and wood stork (11%). Excluding the environmental effect, we interpreted result focusing host characteristics that favour infection: time required for nestlings to be covered by feathers and migratory behaviour. Conclusions The map of habitat suitability showed that wetlands located in a 30° latitudinal range offer similar conditions for avian vectors species and diversity of haemosporidians. The lineages described in waterbirds were previously identified in birds of prey as Plasmodium paranucleophilum. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2847-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Chahad-Ehlers
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235 SP-310, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Angela Terumi Fushita
- Centro de Engenharia, Modelagem e Ciências Aplicadas Universidade Federal do ABC, Avenida dos Estados 5001, Santo André, São Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Augusto Lacorte
- Laboratório Biologia Molecular, Instituto Federal de Minas Gerais, Bambuí, Fazenda Varginha, Rodovia Bambuí - Medeiros, km 5, Bambuí, Minas Gerais, 38900-000, Brazil
| | - Pamela Carla Pereira de Assis
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235 SP-310, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Silvia Nassif Del Lama
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luís, km 235 SP-310, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|