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Figueiredo AM, Santín M, Köster PC, Dashti A, Maloney JG, Torres RT, Fonseca C, Mysterud A, Carvalho J, Hipólito D, Rossa M, Palmeira JD, González-Barrio D, Calero-Bernal R, Carmena D. Molecular detection and characterization of Blastocystis in herbivore livestock species in Portugal. Vet Parasitol 2024; 327:110147. [PMID: 38364349 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110147] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a ubiquitous intestinal protist in humans and animals worldwide. The traditional livestock free-roaming raising system in rural communities increases the risk of infection with contact with a wider range of pathogens transmitted via the faecal-oral route associated with that wildlife-livestock-human interface. However, no studies have been conducted to determine the occurrence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in livestock in Portugal. Here, we collected 180 faecal samples from herbivore livestock (cattle, goats, horses, and sheep) in different regions of the country to investigate Blastocystis prevalence and subtype diversity using PCR and next-generation amplicon sequencing. Blastocystis was present in 40.6% (73/180; 95% CI: 33.31-48.11) of the samples (goats, 81.0%; sheep, 60.9%; cattle, 32.2%). None of the horse samples were Blastocystis-positive. Eighteen subtypes were detected (ST1-ST3, ST5-ST7, ST10, ST13, ST14, ST21, ST23-ST26, ST30, ST42-ST44). Mixed infections were detected in 97.3% of the Blastocystis-positive samples. Potentially zoonotic subtypes were identified in 75.0%, 96.4%, and 100% of the Blastocystis-positive specimens collected from cattle, sheep, and goats, respectively. These results demonstrate that cattle, sheep, and goats harbour a high diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in the study regions. Importantly, our data provide novel molecular evidence strongly suggesting that some Blastocystis STs/ST subgroups may have differential host specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Figueiredo
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mónica Santín
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA.
| | - Pamela C Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences, Alfonso X El Sabio University (UAX), Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, Alfonso X El Sabio University (UAX), Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Jenny G Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Rita T Torres
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fonseca
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal; ForestWISE - Collaborative Laboratory for Integrated Forest & Fire Management, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Atle Mysterud
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
| | - João Carvalho
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Dário Hipólito
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal; Veterinary Biology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mariana Rossa
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Josman D Palmeira
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Majadahonda, Spain; CIBER Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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2
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Buzan E, Potočnik H, Pokorny B, Potušek S, Iacolina L, Gerič U, Urzi F, Kos I. Molecular analysis of scats revealed diet and prey choice of grey wolves and Eurasian lynx in the contact zone between the Dinaric Mountains and the Alps. Front Zool 2024; 21:9. [PMID: 38500207 PMCID: PMC10949697 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-024-00530-6] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of the dietary habits of carnivores is essential to get ecological insights into their role in the ecosystem, potential competition with other carnivorous species, and their effect on prey populations. Genetic analysis of non-invasive samples, such as scats, can supplement behavioural or microscopic diet investigations. The objective of this study was to employ DNA metabarcoding to accurately determine the prey species in grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) scat samples collected in the Julian Alps and the Dinaric Mountains, Slovenia. The primary prey of wolves were red deer (Cervus elaphus) (detected in 96% scat samples), European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) (68%), and wild boar (Sus scrofa) (45%). A smaller portion of their diet consisted of mesocarnivores, small mammals, and domestic animals. In contrast, the lynx diet mostly consisted of European roe deer (82%) and red deer (64%). However, small mammals and domestic animals were also present in lynx diet, albeit to a lesser extent. Our findings indicate that the dietary habits of wolves and lynx are influenced by geographical location. Snapshot dietary analyses using metabarcoding are valuable for comprehending the behaviour and ecology of predators, and for devising conservation measures aimed at sustainable management of both their natural habitats and prey populations. However, to gain a more detailed understanding of wolf and lynx dietary habits and ecological impact, it would be essential to conduct long-term genetic monitoring of their diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Buzan
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Trg mladosti 7, 3320, Velenje, Slovenia
| | - Hubert Potočnik
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Boštjan Pokorny
- Faculty of Environmental Protection, Trg mladosti 7, 3320, Velenje, Slovenia
- Slovenian Forestry Institute, Večna pot 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sandra Potušek
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Laura Iacolina
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Frederik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Urška Gerič
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Felicita Urzi
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000, Koper, Slovenia.
| | - Ivan Kos
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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3
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Barja I, Navarro-Castilla Á, Ortiz-Jiménez L, España Á, Hinojosa R, Sánchez-Sotomayor D, Iglesias Á, España J, Rubio-Sánchez S, Martín-Romero S, Vielva J, Horcajada-Sánchez F. Wild Ungulates Constitute the Basis of the Diet of the Iberian Wolf in a Recently Recolonized Area: Wild Boar and Roe Deer as Key Species for Its Conservation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3364. [PMID: 37958119 PMCID: PMC10647792 DOI: 10.3390/ani13213364] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) is recolonizing historical distribution areas after decades of absence. As in other human-dominated landscapes, finding a balance to protect this species by favoring recolonization and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts is a challenge. Since wolves are often generalist opportunistic predators, we studied their diet composition in central Spain to evaluate the consumption of domestic ungulates and provide reliable data that could help local authorities to deal with the current wolf-cattle ranchers conflict and coexistence. Diet composition (% prey occurrence, % prey ingested biomass) was analyzed through the identification of prey hairs present in 671 scats collected between 2017 and 2021. The wolves fed more on wild ungulates (82% occurrence) than domestic ones (18%). Wild boar (Sus scrofa, 44% occurrence) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus, 35%) were the most consumed prey. The wolves positively selected these two species. The wolves' diets varied between seasons, years, and forest regions, but a diet based on wild ungulates predominated over domestic ones. Food niche breadth showed variations depending on seasons and years. Preserving the availability and diversity of wild ungulates may favor reducing livestock attacks and would be an achievable goal that would help to conserve this species and reduce conservation conflicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barja
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Research Centre in Biodiversity and Global Change (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Álvaro Navarro-Castilla
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Research Centre in Biodiversity and Global Change (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Ortiz-Jiménez
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel España
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Hinojosa
- SIGNATUR, Carretera de la Sierra, 45, Villavieja del Lozoya, 28739 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Sánchez-Sotomayor
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Iglesias
- Unidad de Zoología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - José España
- SIGNATUR, C/Asunción Castell, 22, 28739 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Rubio-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación, Seguimiento y Evaluación del Parque Nacional de la Sierra de Guadarrama, TRAGSA, 28740 Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Martín-Romero
- Centro de Investigación, Seguimiento y Evaluación del Parque Nacional de la Sierra de Guadarrama, TRAGSA, 28740 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Vielva
- Consejería de Medio Ambiente, Vivienda y Agricultura, Centro de Investigación, Seguimiento y Evaluación del Parque Nacional de la Sierra de Guadarrama, 28740 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Horcajada-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación, Seguimiento y Evaluación del Parque Nacional de la Sierra de Guadarrama, TRAGSA, 28740 Madrid, Spain
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Janeiro-Otero A, Álvarez X, Fernández Crespo C, Valero E, Dormann CF. Grey wolf feeding habits and their geographical variation in Northwest Spain. FOOD WEBS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2022.e00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Indirect Effect of African Swine Fever on the Diet Composition of the Gray Wolf Canis lupus-A Case Study in Belarus. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061758. [PMID: 34204598 PMCID: PMC8231097 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The wild boar population decreased drastically in Eastern Europe after the emergence of a viral disease called African Swine Fever. We studied how the gray wolves’ diet changed in two regions in Belarus during this situation. Wolves mainly hunted wild boar, elk, red deer, roe deer and beaver. The decrease in the wild boar population caused changes in the diet of wolves, but only in Vitebsk region. After the decrease in the wild boar population, wolves in this region hunted wild boar less, but they hunted roe deer and red deer more. The more the wolves consumed wild boar, the less they consumed both deer species (roe deer and red deer). Moreover, the more the wolves consumed elk, the less they consumed beaver. In another region, Grodno, no changes in the wolves’ diet were found. Abstract After the emergence of African swine fever (ASF), the wild boar population numbers fell drastically in Eastern Europe. This situation made it possible to verify the changes in the wolves’ diet that occurred. The material collection was carried out in two regions, Grodno and Vitebsk, in Belarus. In total, 19 species/groups of prey were observed in the gray wolf diet, but the most important were wild boar, elk, red deer, roe deer and beaver. The decrease in the number of wild boar caused changes in the diet of wolves but only in Vitebsk region, where wolves’ diet before the ASF epidemic outbreak consisted mainly of elk and wild boar. After the decrease of wild boar numbers, wolves still mainly hunted elk, but other types of prey included roe deer, red deer and beaver. We found a negative correlation between wild boar and both deer species (roe deer and red deer) in the wolves’ diet. Moreover, the more the wolves consumed elk, the less they consumed beaver. In our opinion, only intensive hunting of wolves by humans can explain the resulting dietary fluctuations between elk and beaver, as well as the fact that wolves did not turn to other food sources.
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Abstract
AbstractThe increasing animosity towards wolves (Canislupus) by livestock-keeping nomads in Mongolia and the accompanying conflicts highlight the urgent need for knowledge about the feeding behavior of wolves, since information on the feeding ecology of wolves in Mongolia is rare, especially in the mountain taiga and mountain forest steppe regions of Northern Mongolia. Those regions are characterized by a relatively high wildlife diversity and are sparsely populated by humans. To face this problem, 137 wolf scats were collected in the Khentii Mountain range in Northern Mongolia between 2008 and 2012. Almost all wolf faeces contained remnants of wild ungulates, which made up 89% of the consumed biomass. Siberian roe deer (Capreoluspygargus) was the most important and positively selected prey species. It was followed by red deer (Cervuselaphus) and wild boar (Susscrofa), which was negatively selected by wolves. Wolves also fed on buffer prey species such as lagomorphs and small mammals. No evidence of domestic ungulates was found in the wolf diet. Thus, near-natural habitats with a diverse fauna of wild animals are important to limit livestock depredation.
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7
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One rule does not fit it all: Patterns and drivers of stakeholders perspectives of the endangered Iberian wolf. J Nat Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2020.125822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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8
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Figueiredo AM, Valente AM, Barros T, Carvalho J, Silva DAM, Fonseca C, de Carvalho LM, Torres RT. What does the wolf eat? Assessing the diet of the endangered Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) in northeast Portugal. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230433. [PMID: 32231379 PMCID: PMC7108738 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) is a top predator that inhabits the Iberian Peninsula. In Portugal, its numbers and distribution declined throughout the 20th century, due to human persecution, habitat degradation and prey decline, which have led to higher predation rates of livestock in the remaining packs. In Montesinho Natural Park (northeast Portugal), wild ungulate populations have been increasing in the last years, which may have led wolf to predate upon them. In order to assess Iberian wolf diet in this area, 85 wolf scats were collected from transects distributed throughout the study area in two periods between November 2017 and August 2019. Scat analysis indicated a high predation on wild ungulates, where the frequency of occurrence showed that roe deer was the most consumed prey (44%), followed by red deer (26%) and wild boar (24%). Domestic/wild cat (6%), domestic goat and stone marten (5%) were consumed in lower quantities. It was found a higher selection towards roe deer (D = 0.71) and this was the only prey item which was significantly dependent of the season of the year (χ2 = 16.95, df = 3, p < 0.001). This is the first study in Portugal where was recorded that wolves feed mainly on wild ungulates. We conclude that lower livestock predation may be correlated with higher wild ungulates densities in our study area, as well as suitable husbandry practices, leading to a shift on Iberian wolf diet from mainly livestock on previous studies to wild ungulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Figueiredo
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Valente
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Tânia Barros
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Carvalho
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | - Carlos Fonseca
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rita Tinoco Torres
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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Alfaya P, Invernón A, Alonso G. Iberian Lynx Lynx pardinus Temminck, 1827 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae) in central Spain: trophic niche of an isolated population. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2020. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.5506.12.2.15229-15237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding predator-prey relationships is fundamental to develop effective conservation plans. Between 2015 and 2018, we combed 21 transects, each 7km long, searching for Iberian Lynx Lynx pardinus scat within the province of Madrid in central Spain. In order to minimise inherent subjectivity of visual identification as much as possible, we performed a double specific nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by a primer extension assay addressed to two Iberian Lynx diagnostic single nucleotide polymorphisms. Forty-six scat samples were positively identified as belonging to Iberian Lynx through genetic analysis. From these, we extracted remains of consumed prey, which we determined to the lowest possible taxonomic level, mainly through hair identification. Identified prey was divided into four types: lagomorphs, small mammals, birds, and ungulates. The species’ diet composition was described based on the frequency of occurrence (FO) of each prey and niche breadth, and also compared with prior knowledge of the species using four prior studies as a comparative reference through the calculation of the niche overlap value. The FO of lagomorphs (39%) was the lowest, while the FO of small mammals (54%) was the highest recorded to date. The niche breath (0.36) was higher than recorded in prior studies, but still showing the specialist character of the Iberian Lynx. Niche overlap was low (C = 0.49), showing differences in trophic niche between the population in our study area and the one studied in southern Spain. This indicates that the Iberian Lynx is adept at switching its main prey, an ability that has previously been firmly rejected. It is, however, capable of adapting to alternative prey more often than recorded to date, which could be a behavioural response to the patchy distribution of European Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus in the study area.
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10
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Nunny L. Animal Welfare in Predator Control: Lessons from Land and Sea. How the Management of Terrestrial and Marine Mammals Impacts Wild Animal Welfare in Human-Wildlife Conflict Scenarios in Europe. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E218. [PMID: 32013173 PMCID: PMC7070940 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The control of predators, on land and in the sea, is a complex topic. Both marine and terrestrial mammal predators come into conflict with humans in Europe in many ways and yet their situations are rarely compared. Areas of conflict include the predation of livestock and farmed fish, and the perceived competition for wild prey (for example wolves competing with hunters for deer and seals competing with fishermen for salmon). A lethal method (shooting) and non-lethal methods of conflict reduction (including enclosures, guarding, and aversion) used for terrestrial large carnivores (e.g., bear, wolf, wolverine, lynx) and marine mammals (seals) are discussed. Control measures tend to be species- and habitat-specific, although shooting is a widely used method. Potential impacts on predator welfare are described and welfare assessments which have been developed for other wildlife control scenarios, e.g., control of introduced species, are considered for their potential use in assessing predator control. Such assessments should be applied before control methods are chosen so that decisions prioritizing animal welfare can be made. Further work needs to be carried out to achieve appropriate and widely-accepted animal welfare assessment approaches and these should be included in predator management planning. Future research should include further sharing of approaches and information between terrestrial and marine specialists to help ensure that animal welfare is prioritized.
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11
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Sin T, Gazzola A, Chiriac S, Rîșnoveanu G. Wolf diet and prey selection in the South-Eastern Carpathian Mountains, Romania. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225424. [PMID: 31751409 PMCID: PMC6874069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Romanian wolf population, one of the largest in Europe, occupies a total home-range of 154500 km2 and is spread across a variety of landscapes–from anthropized hills and plateaus to remote, densely forested mountains. However, this population is markedly understudied, and even basic knowledge of the species’ feeding habits is deficient. Wolf diet was assessed based on 236 scat samples collected between November 2013 and October 2014, by following pre-established transects (total length = 774 km). The study area (600 km2) is a multi-prey ecosystem in the southern sector of the Eastern Romanian Carpathians. Our results emphasize that more than 80% of the wolf diet is based on wild ungulates. The wild boar is clearly selected (D = 0.74) and is the most common species in the diet (Bio = 72%), while roe deer (Bio = 10%) and red deer (Bio = 5%) have a smaller contribution. Domestic species represented the second-largest prey category in both seasons. Among them, dog is a particularly important source of food (Bio 3.5–10.9%). Other domestic species (goat, sheep, horse) have marginal importance in the wolf diet and seasonal occurrence. Standardized niche breadths are low in both seasons (BAw = 0.07, BAs = 0.12), and a high degree of overlap in the resources used has been observed (Ôws = 0.99). Our study represents the first step towards understanding the wolf foraging behaviour in the Romanian Carpathians and is valuable to address the complex issues of wolf and wild ungulate population management and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Sin
- Department of Systems Ecology and Sustainability, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity, Focșani, Vrancea County, Romania
- * E-mail: (TS); (GR)
| | - Andrea Gazzola
- Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity, Focșani, Vrancea County, Romania
| | - Silviu Chiriac
- Environmental Protection Agency, Focșani, Vrancea County, Romania
| | - Geta Rîșnoveanu
- Department of Systems Ecology and Sustainability, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- * E-mail: (TS); (GR)
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12
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Ferretti F, Lovari S, Mancino V, Burrini L, Rossa M. Food habits of wolves and selection of wild ungulates in a prey-rich Mediterranean coastal area. Mamm Biol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2019.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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13
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Prevalence of zoonotic parasites in an endangered Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) population in Portugal. Mamm Biol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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14
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Martínez-Rondán FJ, Ruiz de Ybáñez MR, López-Beceiro AM, Fidalgo LE, Berriatua E, Lahat L, Sacristán I, Oleaga Á, Martínez-Carrasco C. Cardiopulmonary nematode infections in wild canids: Does the key lie on host-prey-parasite evolution? Res Vet Sci 2019; 126:51-58. [PMID: 31437776 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cardiopulmonary nematodes are among the most pathogenic parasites of domestic and wild canids. The aim of this study was to describe the species diversity, prevalence and infection intensity of these parasites in the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) and the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. 257 foxes and 74 wolves were necropsied between 2008 and 2014. Four nematode species were identified: Angiostrongylus vasorum, Eucoleus aerophilus, Crenosoma vulpis and Filaroides hirthi. This last species was only found in wolves, being the first time that is cited worldwide in this wild canid. The overall parasite prevalence was significantly higher in foxes (70%) than in wolves (28%). Specifically, prevalences in foxes and wolves were, respectively, 43% and 22% for A. vasorum, 33% and 5% for E. aerophilus, and 30% and 9% for C. vulpis. The prevalence of F. hirthi was 16%. The A. vasorum intensity was significantly higher in foxes than in wolves. Differences between host species in the risk of infection would be associated to diverging feeding behavior, and possibly reflects a parasite-host adaptation related to host's hunting strategies and cardiorespiratory requirements. This study revealed an association between infection and environmental factors, and highlighted a wide variation in the spatial distribution of A. vasorum. Our results indicate that cardiopulmonary parasites are widespread in wild canids in northwest Spain, and further agrees with other studies indicating the expansion of A. vasorum in Europe and, therefore, the urgent need to investigate infection in dogs in sympatric areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco José Martínez-Rondán
- Department of Animal Health, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Rocío Ruiz de Ybáñez
- Department of Animal Health, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Ana María López-Beceiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain.
| | - Luis Eusebio Fidalgo
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain.
| | - Eduardo Berriatua
- Department of Animal Health, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Liron Lahat
- Department of Animal Health, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Irene Sacristán
- PhD Program in Conservation Medicine, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, República 252, Santiago, Chile
| | - Álvaro Oleaga
- SERPA, Sociedad de Servicios del Principado de Asturias S.A., 33203 Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - Carlos Martínez-Carrasco
- Department of Animal Health, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
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Mohammadi A, Kaboli M, Sazatornil V, López-Bao JV. Anthropogenic food resources sustain wolves in conflict scenarios of Western Iran. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218345. [PMID: 31206529 PMCID: PMC6576759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The feeding ecology of gray wolves has been investigated extensively worldwide. Despite previous studies on food habits of wolves in Asia and Iran, none has focused on the diet of the species in a scenario of depleted of wild prey and with recent records of attacks on humans. Here, we combined telemetry methods and scat analysis to study the diet of wolves in areas of Hamadan province, Iran, where medium to large wild prey is almost absent. Between October 2015 and March 2017, we studied the feeding behavior (by identifying feeding sites through clusters of GPS locations) of three wolves fitted with GPS collars, belonging to different wolf packs. We also collected and analyzed 110 wolf scats during the same period within the same areas. Overall, we investigated 850 clusters of GPS locations in the field, and identified 312 feeding sites. Most feeding clusters were linked to dumpsites and poultry farms around villages. We found 142 and 170 events of predatory (kill sites) and scavenging behavior, respectively. Prey composition based on kill sites was comprised of 74.6% livestock, 19.7% lagomorphs, 3.5% dogs, 1.4% red fox, and 0.7% golden jackal. Similarly, prey composition based on scavenging clusters was comprised of 79.9% livestock, 10.6% red fox, and 9.4% golden jackal. Scat analysis, however, indicated that livestock (34.3%), garbage (23.7%), poultry (16.0%), and European hare (15.4%) were the most frequent food items. We discuss the role of anthropogenic food sources in a context where agonistic wolf-human encounters occur recurrently, and suggest management guidelines regarding illegal dumping of animal carcasses and garbage dumpsites, in order to minimize wolf-human negative interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Environment Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Jiroft, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kaboli
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
- * E-mail:
| | - Víctor Sazatornil
- Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia (CTFC), Solsona, Spain
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16
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Petridou M, Youlatos D, Lazarou Y, Selinides K, Pylidis C, Giannakopoulos A, Kati V, Iliopoulos Y. Wolf diet and livestock selection in central Greece. MAMMALIA 2019. [DOI: 10.1515/mammalia-2018-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Understanding the feeding habits of wolves is essential for designing and implementing fundamental management processes across the range of the species. This is even more important within human-dominated areas, such as southern Europe, and more especially Greece. In this context, we analyzed 123 scat samples, collected between 2010 and 2012, from a mixed agricultural, forested and human-dominated area, centered on the municipality of Domokos in central continental Greece. We used standard laboratory procedures for scat analysis and calculated percentages of frequency of occurrence (FO%), average volume (AV%) and biomass index (BM%) to assess diet composition, and estimated prey selectivity. Domestic prey composed the bulk of wolf diet (FO%=73.5, AV%=84.8, BM%=97.2), wild ungulates were almost absent (FO%=0.5, AV%=0.8, BM%=1.2), whereas grass consumption was high in our area (FO%=19.5, AV%=11.0). The high dependence on livestock corroborates previous studies from Greece and other countries in southern Europe. Goat (FO%=46.0, AV%=61.2, BM%=64.9) was the main prey and was strongly selected, with sheep (FO%=11.5, AV%=9.0, BM%=11.2), pig carrion and cattle ranking behind (FO%=11.5, AV%=10.1, BM%=8.7 and FO%=4.5, AV%=4.5, BM%=12.4, respectively). No differences across seasons were detected, except from pig carrion, which increased during winter. The preference for goats is probably associated with its grazing behavior. High livestock consumption generally results in increased human-wolf conflict. Thus, substantial improvement of husbandry practices and restoration of wild ungulate populations are recommended to facilitate wolf-human coexistence in Greece.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Petridou
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
- University of Ioannina , Department of Biological Applications and Technology , Ioannina GR-45110 , Greece
| | - Dionisios Youlatos
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , School of Biology, Department of Zoology , GR-54124 Thessaloniki , Greece
| | - Yorgos Lazarou
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
| | - Kiriakos Selinides
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
| | - Charilaos Pylidis
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
- School of Biological Sciences , University of Bristol , Bristol, BS8 1TH , UK
- NERC Biomolecular Analysis Facility, Department of Animal and Plant Sciences , University of Sheffield , Sheffield S10 2TN , UK
| | - Alexios Giannakopoulos
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
- Faculty of Veterinary Science , University of Thessaly , GR-43100 Karditsa , Greece
| | - Vassiliki Kati
- University of Ioannina , Department of Biological Applications and Technology , Ioannina GR-45110 , Greece
| | - Yorgos Iliopoulos
- Callisto Wildlife and Nature Conservation Society , Mitropoleos 123 , Thessaloniki GR-54621 , Greece
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , School of Biology, Department of Zoology , GR-54124 Thessaloniki , Greece
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Grilo C, Lucas PM, Fernández‐Gil A, Seara M, Costa G, Roque S, Rio‐Maior H, Nakamura M, Álvares F, Petrucci‐Fonseca F, Revilla E. Refuge as major habitat driver for wolf presence in human‐modified landscapes. Anim Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Grilo
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD‐CSIC) Sevilla España
| | - P. M. Lucas
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD‐CSIC) Sevilla España
- Department of Wildlife Conservation Institute of Nature Conservation PAS Kraków Poland
| | - A. Fernández‐Gil
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD‐CSIC) Sevilla España
| | - M. Seara
- CE3C – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes Faculdade de Ciências Universidade de Lisboa Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
| | - G. Costa
- Grupo Lobo Departamento de Biologia Animal Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa Edifício C2 Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
- Bioinsight – Environmental Services Odivelas Portugal
| | - S. Roque
- CE3C – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes Faculdade de Ciências Universidade de Lisboa Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
- Grupo Lobo Departamento de Biologia Animal Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa Edifício C2 Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
| | - H. Rio‐Maior
- CIBIO/InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos da Universidade do Porto Vairão Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia Faculdade de Ciências Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - M. Nakamura
- CIBIO/InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos da Universidade do Porto Vairão Portugal
| | - F. Álvares
- CIBIO/InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos da Universidade do Porto Vairão Portugal
| | - F. Petrucci‐Fonseca
- CE3C – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes Faculdade de Ciências Universidade de Lisboa Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
- Grupo Lobo Departamento de Biologia Animal Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa Edifício C2 Campo Grande Lisbon Portugal
| | - E. Revilla
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD‐CSIC) Sevilla España
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18
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Lagos L, Bárcena F. Spatial variability in wolf diet and prey selection in Galicia (NW Spain). MAMMAL RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-018-0352-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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19
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Ciucci P, Artoni L, Crispino F, Tosoni E, Boitani L. Inter-pack, seasonal and annual variation in prey consumed by wolves in Pollino National Park, southern Italy. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-018-1166-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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20
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Kuijper DPJ, Sahlén E, Elmhagen B, Chamaillé-Jammes S, Sand H, Lone K, Cromsigt JPGM. Paws without claws? Ecological effects of large carnivores in anthropogenic landscapes. Proc Biol Sci 2017; 283:rspb.2016.1625. [PMID: 27798302 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.1625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Large carnivores are frequently presented as saviours of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning through their creation of trophic cascades, an idea largely based on studies coming primarily out of relatively natural landscapes. However, in large parts of the world, particularly in Europe, large carnivores live in and are returning to strongly human-modified ecosystems. At present, we lack a coherent framework to predict the effects of large carnivores in these anthropogenic landscapes. We review how human actions influence the ecological roles of large carnivores by affecting their density or behaviour or those of mesopredators or prey species. We argue that the potential for density-mediated trophic cascades in anthropogenic landscapes is limited to unproductive areas where even low carnivore numbers may impact prey densities or to the limited parts of the landscape where carnivores are allowed to reach ecologically functional densities. The potential for behaviourally mediated trophic cascades may be larger and more widespread, because even low carnivore densities affect prey behaviour. We conclude that predator-prey interactions in anthropogenic landscapes will be highly context-dependent and human actions will often attenuate the ecological effects of large carnivores. We highlight the knowledge gaps and outline a new research avenue to study the role of carnivores in anthropogenic landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P J Kuijper
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Waszkiewicza 1d, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
| | - E Sahlén
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, 901 83 Umeå, Sweden.,Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology Program, Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, 110 Brooks Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - B Elmhagen
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S Chamaillé-Jammes
- CEFE UMR 5175, CNRS-Université de Montpellier-Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier-EPHE, 1919 Route Mende, 34293 Montpellier 5, France
| | - H Sand
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station, Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Riddarhyttan, Sweden
| | - K Lone
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, 9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - J P G M Cromsigt
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skogsmarksgränd, 901 83 Umeå, Sweden.,Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, PO Box 77000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa
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21
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González JA, Carvalho AM, Vallejo JR, Amich F. Plant-based remedies for wolf bites and rituals against wolves in the Iberian Peninsula: Therapeutic opportunities and cultural values for the conservation of biocultural diversity. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 209:124-139. [PMID: 28755969 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Combined approaches to local knowledge and folk plant use improve awareness and promote effective strategies for the conservation of significant biocultural patrimony. Moreover, the information reported might be the basis for further appropriate phytochemical and pharmacological research. Therefore we provide an insight into traditional herbal remedies and practices for healing bite injuries in humans and domestic animals caused by the Iberian wolf. Wolf bites are associated with inflammatory processes and rabies is a potential complication AIMS: This paper describes and summarises the medicinal-veterinary empirical and ritual uses of the Iberian flora for wolf injuries and reviews the ethnopharmacological data of specific plants that are already published. The Iberian wolf is a critically endangered subspecies of the grey wolf. Livestock attacks attributed to wolves are increasingly frequent in the Iberian Peninsula, resulting in serious social problems. Interesting strategies for Iberian wolf conservation might be related to traditional grazing practices that are deeply linked with empirical knowledge and local practices passed on by oral tradition, which are also vulnerable now. MATERIALS AND METHODS Based on documentary sources from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present, we systematically searched old monographs, regional documents, technical papers, project reports, as well as the international and national databases and the available scientific literature, without restrictions regarding the language of the publications consulted. RESULTS A total of 39 remedies for healing wolf bite injuries in humans and domestic animals was reported, highlighting the medicinal use of 33 species of vascular plants, mostly wild herbs, belonging to 18 botanical families. The use of wood ashes was also reported. The number of use-reports found represents a very high number considering similar European studies. Leaves were the predominant plant part mentioned. Boiling plant materials in water for topical uses was the most frequent method of preparation found. Some traditional remedies combined two or more plant species in order to potentiate their effects. Moreover, some plant-based traditional practices and rituals to ward off wolves and to prevent wolf attacks were also documented. In these practices eleven other species (belonging to seven more families) were used. CONCLUSIONS Despite the decline of the Iberian wolf over the last few decades, wolves are still in the imaginary of rural communities that perceive this large carnivore as both a diabolic creature and a mythic and benign animal. Wolf-related cultural heritage is of great interest in terms of conservation strategies. This review emphasises the importance of local knowledge and provides useful information about several potential sources of phytochemicals and their claimed therapeutic effects, aiming at contributing to the conservation and appreciation of the Iberian biocultural heritage.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A González
- Grupo de Investigación de Recursos Etnobiológicos del Duero-Douro (GRIRED), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca E-37071, Spain.
| | - Ana Maria Carvalho
- Mountain Research Centre (CIMO), School of Agriculture, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal.
| | - José Ramón Vallejo
- Área de Didáctica de Ciencias Experimentales, Equipo de Historia de la Ciencia y Antropología de la Salud,Salud, Facultad de Educación, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, E-06006, Spain.
| | - Francisco Amich
- Grupo de Investigación de Recursos Etnobiológicos del Duero-Douro (GRIRED), Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca E-37071, Spain.
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22
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Torres RT, Ferreira E, Rocha RG, Fonseca C. Hybridization between wolf and domestic dog: First evidence from an endangered population in central Portugal. Mamm Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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23
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Figueiredo A, Oliveira L, Madeira de Carvalho L, Fonseca C, Torres RT. Parasite species of the endangered Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) and a sympatric widespread carnivore. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2016; 5:164-7. [PMID: 27358768 PMCID: PMC4916035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Parasites have a profound impact on wildlife population dynamics. However, until some years ago, studies on the occurrence and prevalence of wildlife parasites were neglected comparatively with the studies on humans and domestic animals. In this study, we determined the parasite prevalence of two sympatric wild canids: the endangered Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) and the widespread red fox (Vulpes vulpes), in central Portugal. From November 2014 to July 2015, fresh fecal samples from both species were collected monthly in several transects distributed throughout the study area. All samples were submitted to several coprological techniques. In total, 6 helminth parasites (Crenosoma vulpis, Angiostrongylus vasorum, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Ancylostomatidae, Toxascaris leonina), and a protozoa (Balantidium coli) were identified based on size and morphology. The red fox was infected by seven different parasites while the Iberian wolf was infected by four. All parasites present in wolf were also present in the red fox. C. vulpis had the higher prevalence in red fox, while Ancylostomatidae were the most prevalent parasites in wolf. To our knowledge, this is the first study in this isolated subpopulation of the Iberian wolf. Our results show that both carnivores carry parasites that are of concern as they are pathogenic to humans and other wild and domestic animals. We suggest that surveillance programs must also include monitoring protocols of wildlife; particularly endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Figueiredo
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Lucia Oliveira
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fonseca
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Tinoco Torres
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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24
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Keiter DA, Cunningham FL, Rhodes OE, Irwin BJ, Beasley JC. Optimization of Scat Detection Methods for a Social Ungulate, the Wild Pig, and Experimental Evaluation of Factors Affecting Detection of Scat. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155615. [PMID: 27224453 PMCID: PMC4880348 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Collection of scat samples is common in wildlife research, particularly for genetic capture-mark-recapture applications. Due to high degradation rates of genetic material in scat, large numbers of samples must be collected to generate robust estimates. Optimization of sampling approaches to account for taxa-specific patterns of scat deposition is, therefore, necessary to ensure sufficient sample collection. While scat collection methods have been widely studied in carnivores, research to maximize scat collection and noninvasive sampling efficiency for social ungulates is lacking. Further, environmental factors or scat morphology may influence detection of scat by observers. We contrasted performance of novel radial search protocols with existing adaptive cluster sampling protocols to quantify differences in observed amounts of wild pig (Sus scrofa) scat. We also evaluated the effects of environmental (percentage of vegetative ground cover and occurrence of rain immediately prior to sampling) and scat characteristics (fecal pellet size and number) on the detectability of scat by observers. We found that 15- and 20-m radial search protocols resulted in greater numbers of scats encountered than the previously used adaptive cluster sampling approach across habitat types, and that fecal pellet size, number of fecal pellets, percent vegetative ground cover, and recent rain events were significant predictors of scat detection. Our results suggest that use of a fixed-width radial search protocol may increase the number of scats detected for wild pigs, or other social ungulates, allowing more robust estimation of population metrics using noninvasive genetic sampling methods. Further, as fecal pellet size affected scat detection, juvenile or smaller-sized animals may be less detectable than adult or large animals, which could introduce bias into abundance estimates. Knowledge of relationships between environmental variables and scat detection may allow researchers to optimize sampling protocols to maximize utility of noninvasive sampling for wild pigs and other social ungulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Keiter
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, United States of America
- D. B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Fred L. Cunningham
- National Wildlife Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Starkville, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Olin E. Rhodes
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, United States of America
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Brian J. Irwin
- U. S. Geological Survey, Georgia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, D. B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - James C. Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, United States of America
- D. B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
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25
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Rio-Maior H, Beja P, Nakamura M, Santos N, Brandão R, Sargo R, Dias I, Silva F, Álvares F. Rehabilitation and post-release monitoring of two wolves with severe injuries. J Wildl Manage 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.1055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Rio-Maior
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos; Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão; Vairão Portugal
| | - Pedro Beja
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos; Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão; Vairão Portugal
- CEABN/InBio, Centro de Ecologia Aplicada “Professor Baeta Neves,” Instituto Superior de Agronomia; Universidade de Lisboa; Tapada da Ajuda Lisboa 1349-017 Portugal
| | - Mónia Nakamura
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos; Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão; Vairão Portugal
| | - Nuno Santos
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos; Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão; Vairão Portugal
| | - Ricardo Brandão
- Associação ALDEIA-Centro de Ecologia; Recuperação e Vigilância de Animais Selvagens (CERVAS); Gouveia Portugal
| | - Roberto Sargo
- CECAV-Veterinary and Animal Science Research Centre, UTAD; PO BOX 1013 Vila Real 5000-801 Portugal
| | - Isabel Dias
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences/CITAB, Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences; University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD); PO BOX 1013 Vila Real 5000-801 Portugal
| | - Filipe Silva
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences; University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD); PO BOX 1013 Vila Real 5000-801 Portugal
| | - Francisco Álvares
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos; Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão; Vairão Portugal
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