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Quin MJ, Morgan JW, Murphy NP. Assessing the diet and seed dispersal ability of non-native sambar deer ( Rusa unicolor) in native ecosystems of south-eastern Australia. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10711. [PMID: 38034333 PMCID: PMC10682569 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the influence of non-native herbivores on ecosystems by means of dietary foraging and seed dispersal is important for understanding how non-native species can alter an invaded landscape, yet requires multiple methodologies. In south-eastern Australia, introduced sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) are rapidly expanding in range and placing native ecosystems at risk through browsing and as vectors for seed dispersal. We simultaneously investigated sambar deer dietary composition and seed dispersal using DNA sequencing and germination trials, from faecal pellets collected in alpine and wet forest ecosystems. This allowed us to contrast the dietary impacts of introduced sambar deer in different environments, and to explore the potential for habitat-specific variation in diet. DNA sequencing of the trnL, ITS2 and rbcL gene regions revealed a diverse plant species dietary composition comprising 1003 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Sambar deer exhibited intermediate feeder behaviours dominated by forbs in alpine and shrubs in wet forest ecosystems. A large proportion of plant OTUs were considered likely to be native, however, the proportion of exotic species in the diet in both ecosystems was greater than would be expected based on the proportion of exotic species in each of the two landscapes. Seed germination trials indicated that sambar deer can disperse a substantial number of native and exotic species in both alpine and wet forest ecosystems. In alpine ecosystems, an individual sambar deer was estimated to disperse on average 816 (±193) seeds per day during the study period, of which 652 (±176) were exotic. Synthesis and applications. Our results suggest that native plant species comprise the majority of sambar deer diets in Australian ecosystems and that the introduced species is dispersing both native and exotic plant species via endozoochory. However, exotic species seedling germination numbers were significantly higher in alpine ecosystems, and given the large daily movements of sambar deer, represents a significant vector for the spread of exotic plant species. Management of native plant species and vegetation communities of conservation significance, or at risk to sambar deer browsing is of high priority, through either the removal of sambar deer or implementation of exclusion-based methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Quin
- Department of Ecology, Environment and EvolutionLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- College of Science and EngineeringJames Cook UniversityDouglasQueenslandAustralia
| | - John W. Morgan
- Department of Ecology, Environment and EvolutionLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- Research Centre for Applied Alpine EcologyLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nicholas P. Murphy
- Department of Ecology, Environment and EvolutionLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
- Research Centre for Applied Alpine EcologyLa Trobe UniversityBundooraVictoriaAustralia
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2
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Liang HM, Yang KT, Cheng YT, Chang SC, Lin CY, Tsai MY, Lin DY, Hung KH. Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Captive Populations of Formosan Sambar Deer ( Rusa unicolor swinhoei). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3106. [PMID: 37835712 PMCID: PMC10571969 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193106] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Formosan sambar deer (Rusa unicolor swinhoei) are of great economic significance in Taiwan, resulting in a substantial increase in deer farming to meet the high demand for velvet antlers. Inbreeding depression and reduced genetic variability can lead to the deterioration of captive populations. In this study, 239 Formosan sambar deer were genotyped using 13 microsatellites to analyze their genetic diversity and population genetic structure. Our results indicate a high-resolution power of these microsatellites in individual discrimination and parentage analysis. However, captive populations exhibit a low level of genetic diversity, likely because of inbreeding and bottleneck effects. Both principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and STRUCTURE analyses revealed two distinct and segregated genetic groups within the captive populations and indicated no clear population genetic structure among the captive populations. Introducing new genetic material from the wild through translocation offers a potential solution for mitigating the impact of inbreeding and enhancing genetic diversity. The comprehensive information obtained from these genetic analyses is crucial for the development of effective breeding strategies aimed at preserving and enhancing Formosan sambar deer populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Mei Liang
- Southern Region Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Pingtung 912013, Taiwan; (H.-M.L.); (S.-C.C.)
| | - Kuo-Tai Yang
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Tzu Cheng
- Department of Forestry, Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan;
| | - Shen-Chang Chang
- Southern Region Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Pingtung 912013, Taiwan; (H.-M.L.); (S.-C.C.)
| | - Cheng-Yung Lin
- Livestock Management Division, Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tainan 71246, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (M.-Y.T.)
| | - Ming-Yang Tsai
- Livestock Management Division, Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tainan 71246, Taiwan; (C.-Y.L.); (M.-Y.T.)
| | - Der-Yuh Lin
- Genetics and Physiology Division, Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tainan 71246, Taiwan;
| | - Kuo-Hsiang Hung
- Graduate Institute of Bioresources, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan
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3
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Jayasundara SL, Algewatta HR, Jayawardana S, Perera M, Peiris LDC. Molecular Identification and Evolutionary Divergence of the Sri Lankan Sambar Deer, Rusa unicolor (Kerr 1792). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2877. [PMID: 37760277 PMCID: PMC10525601 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182877] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Sambar is one of the largest deer species distributed mainly in Asia, and it has been listed as a vulnerable species. Taxonomy based on morphological characterization has been the gold standard method used to identify the Sambar deer species. Yet, morphological identification is challenging and requires expertise. To conduct species identification and taxonomic decisions, we performed the molecular identification of R. unicolor found in Sri Lanka using DNA barcodes, COI, and Cyt b to compare the Sri Lankan R. unicolor with the Indian R. unicolor and other R. unicolor subspecies. We obtained mitochondrial DNA sequences from COI and Cyt b from blood samples collected from the wet zone in Sri Lanka. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the Bayesian analyses using MrBayes 3.2.7. Molecular dating was implemented in Bayesian Evolutionary Analysis Sampling Trees (BEAST v1.8.2) on the concatenated sequence using a log-normal relaxed clock and Yule species tree prior, with four categories. The results showed that the Sri Lankan R. unicolor is genetically different from the Indian R. unicolor and other R. unicolor subspecies. The divergence occurred approximately 1.1 MYA (million years ago) in the Pleistocene era. The results are essential for designing new conservation platforms for these Sambar deer species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subodha Lakruwani Jayasundara
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; (S.L.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Hirusha Randimal Algewatta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; (S.L.J.); (M.P.)
| | - Suhada Jayawardana
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Department of Wildlife Conservation, 811A, Jayanthipura, Btataramulla 10120, Sri Lanka;
| | - Minoli Perera
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka; (S.L.J.); (M.P.)
| | - L. Dinithi C. Peiris
- Genetics & Molecular Biology Unit/Department of Zoology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
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Hampton JO, Cobb ML, Toop SD, Flesch JS, Hyndman TH. Elevated lead exposure in Australian hunting dogs during a deer hunting season. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 323:121317. [PMID: 36828357 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is growing recognition of the threat posed by toxic lead-based ammunition. One group of domestic animals known to be susceptible to harmful lead exposure via this route is hunting dogs. Scent-trailing dogs ('hounds') are used to hunt introduced sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) during a prescribed eight-month (April-November) annual hunting season, during which they are fed fresh venison, in Victoria, south-eastern Australia. We used this annual season as a natural experiment to undertake longitudinal sampling of dogs for lead exposure. Blood was collected from 27 dogs owned by four different deer hunters and comprising three different breeds just prior to the start of the hound hunting season (March 2022) and in the middle of the season (August 2022), and blood lead levels (BLLs) (μg/dL) were determined via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Using Tobit regression, the expected BLLs across all dogs were significantly lower before the season (0.50 μg/dL, standard error [SE] = 0.32 μg/dL) than during the season (1.39 μg/dL, SE = 0.35 μg/dL) (p = 0.01). However, when the breed of dog was included in the analyses, this effect was only significant in beagles (P < 0.001), not bloodhounds (p = 0.73) or harriers (p = 0.43). For 32% of the dogs before the season, and 56% during the season, BLLs exceeded the established threshold concentration for developmental neurotoxicity in humans (1.2 μg/dL). Time since most recent venison feeding, sex of dog and owner were not associated with BLLs. The finding that BLLs more than doubled during the hunting season indicates that lead exposure is a risk in this context. These results expand the sphere of impact from environmental lead in Australia from wild animals and humans, to include some groups of domestic animals, a textbook example of a One Health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Hampton
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
| | - Mia L Cobb
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Simon D Toop
- Game Management Authority, Level 2, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Jason S Flesch
- Game Management Authority, Level 2, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Timothy H Hyndman
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia; School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
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Bengsen AJ, Forsyth DM, Ramsey DSL, Amos M, Brennan M, Pople AR, Comte S, Crittle T. Estimating deer density and abundance using spatial mark-resight models with camera trap data. J Mammal 2022; 103:711-722. [PMID: 35707678 PMCID: PMC9189690 DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyac016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, many wild deer populations are actively studied or managed for conservation, hunting, or damage mitigation purposes. These studies require reliable estimates of population state parameters, such as density or abundance, with a level of precision that is fit for purpose. Such estimates can be difficult to attain for many populations that occur in situations that are poorly suited to common survey methods. We evaluated the utility of combining camera trap survey data, in which a small proportion of the sample is individually recognizable using natural markings, with spatial mark-resight (SMR) models to estimate deer density in a variety of situations. We surveyed 13 deer populations comprising four deer species (Cervus unicolor, C. timorensis, C. elaphus, Dama dama) at nine widely separated sites, and used Bayesian SMR models to estimate population densities and abundances. Twelve surveys provided sufficient data for analysis and seven produced density estimates with coefficients of variation (CVs) ≤ 0.25. Estimated densities ranged from 0.3 to 24.6 deer km-2. Camera trap surveys and SMR models provided a powerful and flexible approach for estimating deer densities in populations in which many detections were not individually identifiable, and they should provide useful density estimates under a wide range of conditions that are not amenable to more widely used methods. In the absence of specific local information on deer detectability and movement patterns, we recommend that at least 30 cameras be spaced at 500-1,000 m and set for 90 days. This approach could also be applied to large mammals other than deer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Bengsen
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, 1447 Forest Road, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
| | - David M Forsyth
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, 1447 Forest Road, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
| | - Dave S L Ramsey
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Matt Amos
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Michael Brennan
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Anthony R Pople
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Sebastien Comte
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, 1447 Forest Road, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
| | - Troy Crittle
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Biosecurity and Food Safety, 4 Marsden Park Road, Calala, NSW 2340, Australia
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Thirumurugan V, Chandravilasam Sreedharan Nair Vishnu, Prabakaran N, Ramesh C. Group size pattern and distribution of threatened Sambar Rusa unicolor (Artiodactyla: Cervidae) in Moyar River Valley, India. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2022. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.7445.14.4.20926-20929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sambars are usually observed as solitary or in small groups with fewer than six individuals. We discuss some insights on infrequent larger aggregations of Sambar based on our sighting records between January 2018 and January 2020 in the Moyar River Valley landscape of Tamil Nadu, southern India.
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Haleem A, Ilyas O. Status, abundance, and food habit of Sambar deer ( Rusa unicolor) in tropical deciduous forest of Central India. MAMMALIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/mammalia-2021-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Variation in the foraging strategies of Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) with changing plant availability has received little attention. The pellet group density and seasonal vegetation availability in tropical climatic conditions of dry deciduous forest of Pench Tiger Reserve, were assessed through indirect evidences (pellet group density). Stratified random sampling was used in different habitats from 2012 to 2015 on a seasonal basis. The Sambar deer (R. unicolor) is one of the largest deer species distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent. Pellet group data were collected on 10 m radius permanent plots at every 200 m intervals on line transects. Teak forest, teak mixed and bamboo forest was the preferred habitat during summer (89.87 ± 88.36), and winter (98.19 ± 94.59) seasons respectively. Microhistological study was conducted to understand the feeding preferences of Sambar through pellet groups. A total of 57 plant species were identified in summer diet. While 51 species of plants were identified in winter diet. Sambar is predominantly a browser and for the conservation of the declining population of Sambar, long undisturbed tract should be protected with preferred browse and grass species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Haleem
- Department of Wildlife Sciences , AMU , Aligarh 202002 , India
| | - Orus Ilyas
- Department of Wildlife Sciences , AMU , Aligarh 202002 , India
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8
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Li G, Guo W, Zhang Y, Cao G, Wang Z. Complete mitochondrial genome of Rusa unicolor cambojensis (Artiodactyla: Cervidae). Mitochondrial DNA B Resour 2021; 6:3372-3374. [PMID: 34778556 PMCID: PMC8583744 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2021.1997118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Guogang Li
- College of Life Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, Qinghai, China
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
- Academy of Plateau Science and Sustainability, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
- Linnause Labs Technology Co., Ltd, Wuyuan, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yunchun Zhang
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Yunnan Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Domestic Animals, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Guanghong Cao
- Naban River Watershed National Nature Reserve, Jinghong, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhengli Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, Qinghai, China
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Watter K, Thomas E, White N, Finch N, Murray PJ. Aging Sambar (
Rusa unicolor)
Using Cementum Annuli and Eruption and Wear: Implications for Predicting Populations. WILDLIFE SOC B 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Watter
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus 4343 Australia
| | - Elaine Thomas
- Parks Victoria, Mount Beauty Victoria 3699 Australia
| | - Neil White
- The University of Queensland, QAAFI Toowoomba 4350 Australia
| | - Neal Finch
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus 4343 Australia
| | - Peter J. Murray
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus 4343 Australia
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Kelly CL, Schwarzkopf L, Gordon IJ, Hirsch B. Population growth lags in introduced species. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:4577-4587. [PMID: 33976832 PMCID: PMC8093750 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
When introduced to new ecosystems, species' populations often grow immediately postrelease. Some introduced species, however, maintain a low population size for years or decades before sudden, rapid population growth is observed. Because exponential population growth always starts slowly, it can be difficult to distinguish species experiencing the early phases of slow exponential population growth (inherent lags) from those with actively delayed growth rates (prolonged lags). Introduced ungulates provide an excellent system in which to examine lags, because some introduced ungulate populations have demonstrated rapid population growth immediately postintroduction, while others have not. Using studies from the literature, we investigated which exotic ungulate species and populations (n = 36) showed prolonged population growth lags by comparing the doubling time of real ungulate populations to those predicted from exponential growth models for theoretical populations. Having identified the specific populations that displayed prolonged lags, we examined the impacts of several environmental and biological variables likely to influence the length of lag period. We found that seventeen populations (47%) showed significant prolonged population growth lags. We could not, however, determine the specific factors that contributed to the length of these lag phases, suggesting that these ungulate populations' growth is idiosyncratic and difficult to predict. Introduced species that exhibit delayed growth should be closely monitored by managers, who must be proactive in controlling their growth to minimize the impact such populations may have on their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine L. Kelly
- Division of Tropical Environments and SocietiesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQldAustralia
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- Division of Tropical Environments and SocietiesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQldAustralia
| | - Iain J. Gordon
- Fenner School of Environment & SocietyAustralian National UniversityCanberraACTAustralia
- James Hutton InstituteAberdeenUK
- Australian Tropical Science and Innovation PrecinctCSIROTownsvilleQldAustralia
- Central Queensland UniversityTownsvilleQldAustralia
| | - Ben Hirsch
- Division of Tropical Environments and SocietiesJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQldAustralia
- Smithsonian Tropical Research InstitutePanama CityPanama
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Keneisenuo K, Choudhary OP, Kalita PC, Choudhary P, Kalita A, Doley PJ, Chaudhary JK. Comparative morphometrical studies on the skull bones of barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) and sambar deer (Rusa unicolor). Anat Histol Embryol 2021; 50:500-511. [PMID: 33423310 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12653] [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: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The present study reports data on the skull bone morphometry of barking and sambar deer. The skulls of adult barking deer (n = 6) and sambar deer (n = 6) of either sex (n = 3 males and n = 3 females) were collected from the Aizawl Zoological Park, Aizawl, Mizoram, India, with official permission from the Government of Mizoram. Anatomically, barking and sambar deer's skulls were elongated, pyramid-like, dolichocephalic and consisted of thirty-two cranial and facial bones. The cranial bones were eleven (three single and four paired), comprising of occipital, sphenoid, ethmoid, frontal, interparietal, parietal and temporal. The facial bones were twenty-one (one single and ten were paired), consisting of the maxilla, premaxilla (incisive), palatine, pterygoid, nasal, lacrimal, zygomatic (malar), vomer, turbinates, mandible and hyoid. In the present study, altogether 41 different measurements were taken morphologically and 6 different indices were applied. The obtained morphometrical parameters were significantly (p < .01, p < .05) higher in males than females of both species. Species wise, all obtained parameters were higher in sambar deer than barking deer. The obtained 41 different skull parameters and 6 indices showed statistically significant differences (p < .01 and p < .05) between both sexes of barking and sambar deer; however, practically these differences were meagre. The present morphometrical study on the skull of both species can help the wildlife professionals and zoo veterinarians determine the sex of these animals and differentiate it from other domestic and wild small ruminants for solving veterolegal cases. This study's findings will also motivate and assist other comparative studies with various domestic and wild small ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keneisenuo Keneisenuo
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
| | - Om Prakash Choudhary
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
| | - Pranab Chandra Kalita
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
| | - Priyanka Choudhary
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Peren, India
| | - Arup Kalita
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
| | - Probal Jyoti Doley
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
| | - Jitendra Kumar Chaudhary
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (I), Aizawl, India
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Ali NANG, Abdullah ML, Nor SAM, Pau TM, Kulaimi NAM, Naim DM. A review of the genus Rusa in the indo-malayan archipelago and conservation efforts. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:10-26. [PMID: 33424278 PMCID: PMC7783680 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Genus Rusa, belonging to the deer family Cervidae is native to the Indo-Malaya Archipelago (IMA). However, detailed information on the Rusa genus in the IMA is limited. This review provides comprehensive information on the Rusa genus in the IMA including, threats and conservation efforts. There are four species of deer in Rusa genus, which is Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), Javan deer (Rusa timorensis), Visayan spotted deer (Rusa alfredi) and Philippine deer (Rusa marianna). Despite their wide distribution in the South Asian and Southeast Asian regions, they are under serious threats. Some conservation efforts that are being done to protect and conserve them among others are; (1) facilities protection, (2) habitat enrichment programme, (3) Ex-situ conservation, (4) legislations, and (5) captive breeding. Conservation through genetics is also an important step in conserving these species. Recommendations for conservation of the genus are also discussed; 1. maintenance of ecosystem. 2. more effective monitoring system on the existing protected area. 3. ex-situ conservation, and 4. habitat monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Alizati Nabila Giarat Ali
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Lutfi Abdullah
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Azizah Mohd Nor
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tan Min Pau
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Darlina Md Naim
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Davies C, Wright W, Wedrowicz F, Pacioni C, Hogan FE. Delineating genetic management units of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in south-eastern Australia, using opportunistic tissue sampling and targeted scat collection. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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Nigam P, Talukdar A, Habib B, Pandav B, Malik PK, Kalyanasundaram S. Hematologic and serum biochemical reference values in chemically immobilized free-ranging sambar (Rusa unicolor). EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-020-01441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Watter K, Thomas E, White N, Finch N, Murray PJ. Reproductive seasonality and rate of increase of wild sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in a new environment, Victoria, Australia. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 223:106630. [PMID: 33166829 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Sambar (Rusa unicolor) are the most numerous and rapidly expanding of Australia's six introduced deer species, however, there is little information about the reproductive biology of sambar deer in their natural habitat. To better predict and manage wild sambar populations in Australia it is important to understand their reproductive seasonality and rate of population growth. From results of the present study, there is reporting of field estimates of age at first breeding, reproductive lifespan, juvenile survival, adult bodyweights and fecundity to derive estimates of the current and intrinsic rates of increase for sambar in Victoria, Australia. Mean age of first reproduction was estimated to be 1.8 years, approximately 80 % of hinds calved between April and August, juvenile survival was estimated as 0.81 and age of last reproduction 12.75 years. Seasonality of reproduction is apparently compressed at 36° latitude compared to sambar at the equator indicating a response to photoperiod. Demographic data were used to estimate the current rate of growth of the Victorian population using the two stage Lotke-Euler equation and age-specific schedules of survival and fecundity in a lifetable. These estimates of r were 0.21 and 0.14, respectively, inferring annual rates of population increase of 24 % and 15 %. These data are in the context of a population which, even though there is a marked harvesting, is reportedly growing and dispersing northwards. Suggestions for how this information can inform management decisions directed at the conservation for sustainable use and/or population reduction in Australia are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Watter
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia
| | - E Thomas
- Parks Victoria, Mt Beauty, Victoria, 3699, Australia
| | - N White
- The University of Queensland, QAAFI, Toowoomba, 4350, Australia
| | - N Finch
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia
| | - P J Murray
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, 4343, Australia.
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16
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Mendonça FS, Silva Filho GB, Bom HAC, Fonseca SMC, Silva MA, Rameh-de-Albuquerque LC, Beingesser J, Uzal FA. Intestinal Myxoid Leiomyosarcoma in a Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor). J Comp Pathol 2020; 180:69-72. [PMID: 33222876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2020.08.008] [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: 05/23/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A 9-year-old male sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) that died during sedation had a large and firm polypoid mass, which expanded the small intestinal wall and partially obstructed the duodenal lumen. Histopathology revealed a pleomorphic sarcoma composed of stellate to spindloid cells loosely arranged in an abundant myxoid matrix. The cytoplasm of the neoplastic cells was strongly immunopositive for vimentin and smooth muscle actin, but negative for c-KIT, desmin and myoglobin. The findings are consistent with intestinal myxoid leiomyosarcoma, which is rare in cervids and has not been described in the sambar deer, which is an endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio S Mendonça
- Laboratory of Animal Diagnosis, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | - Givaldo B Silva Filho
- Laboratory of Animal Diagnosis, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Hisadora A C Bom
- Laboratory of Animal Diagnosis, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Silvio M C Fonseca
- Laboratory of Animal Diagnosis, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | - Julian Beingesser
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, San Bernardino, California, USA
| | - Francisco A Uzal
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, San Bernardino, California, USA
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17
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Phumanee W, Steinmetz R, Phoonjampa R, Bejraburnin T, Grainger M, Savini T. Occupancy‐based monitoring of ungulate prey species in Thailand indicates population stability, but limited recovery. Ecosphere 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Worrapan Phumanee
- Conservation Ecology Program School of Bioresources and Technology King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi Bangkhuntien Bangkok10150Thailand
- WWF‐Thailand 9 Pisit Building, Pradiphat Road Soi 10 Phayathai Bangkok10400Thailand
| | - Robert Steinmetz
- WWF‐Thailand 9 Pisit Building, Pradiphat Road Soi 10 Phayathai Bangkok10400Thailand
| | - Rungnapa Phoonjampa
- WWF‐Thailand 9 Pisit Building, Pradiphat Road Soi 10 Phayathai Bangkok10400Thailand
| | - Thawatchai Bejraburnin
- Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation 61 Phaholyothin Road Bangkok10900Thailand
| | | | - Tommaso Savini
- Conservation Ecology Program School of Bioresources and Technology King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi Bangkhuntien Bangkok10150Thailand
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18
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A new viewpoint on antlers reveals the evolutionary history of deer (Cervidae, Mammalia). Sci Rep 2020; 10:8910. [PMID: 32488122 PMCID: PMC7265483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64555-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent molecular phylogeny of deer revealed that the characters of antlers previously focused on are homoplasious, and antlers tend to be considered problematic for classification. However, we think antlers are important tools and reconsidered and analysed the characters and structures to use them for classification. This study developed a method to describe the branching structure of antlers by using antler grooves, which are formed on the antlers by growth, and then projecting the position of the branching directions of tines on the burr circumference. By making diagrams, comparing the branching structure interspecifically, homologous elements (tines, beams, and processes) of the antlers of 25 species of 16 genera were determined. Subsequently, ancestral state reconstruction was performed on the fixed molecular phylogenetic tree. It was revealed that Capreolinae and Cervini gained respective three-pointed antlers independently, and their subclades gained synapomorphous tines. We found new homologous and synapomorphous characters, as the antler of Eld’s deer, which has been classified in Rucervus, is structurally close to that of Elaphurus rather than that of Rucervus, consistent with molecular phylogeny. The methods of this study will contribute to the understanding of the branching structure and phylogeny of fossil species and uncover the evolutionary history of Cervidae.
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19
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Heckeberg NS. The systematics of the Cervidae: a total evidence approach. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8114. [PMID: 32110477 PMCID: PMC7034380 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Systematic relationships of cervids have been controversial for decades. Despite new input from molecular systematics, consensus could only be partially reached. The initial, gross (sub) classification based on morphology and comparative anatomy was mostly supported by molecular data. The rich fossil record of cervids has never been extensively tested in phylogenetic frameworks concerning potential systematic relationships of fossil cervids to extant cervids. The aim of this work was to investigate the systematic relationships of extant and fossil cervids using molecular and morphological characters and make implications about their evolutionary history based on the phylogenetic reconstructions. To achieve these objectives, molecular data were compiled consisting of five nuclear markers and the complete mitochondrial genome of 50 extant and one fossil cervids. Several analyses using different data partitions, taxon sampling, partitioning schemes, and optimality criteria were undertaken. In addition, the most extensive morphological character matrix for such a broad cervid taxon sampling was compiled including 168 cranial and dental characters of 41 extant and 29 fossil cervids. The morphological and molecular data were analysed in a combined approach and other comprehensive phylogenetic reconstructions. The results showed that most Miocene cervids were more closely related to each other than to any other cervids. They were often positioned between the outgroup and all other cervids or as the sister taxon to Muntiacini. Two Miocene cervids were frequently placed within Muntiacini. Plio- and Pleistocene cervids could often be affiliated to Cervini, Odocoileini or Capreolini. The phylogenetic analyses provide new insights into the evolutionary history of cervids. Several fossil cervids could be successfully related to living representatives, confirming previously assumed affiliations based on comparative morphology and introducing new hypotheses. New systematic relationships were observed, some uncertainties persisted and resolving systematics within certain taxa remained challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola S. Heckeberg
- Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
- SNSB-Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, Munich, Germany
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology & Geobiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Berlin, Germany
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20
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Davies C, Wright W, Wedrowicz F, Hogan FE. A DNA toolbox for non-invasive genetic studies of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor). AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am18032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Invasive sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) are having significant detrimental impacts on natural environments in south-eastern Australia. Little, however, is known about their ecology, limiting evidence-based management strategies directed at reducing deer impacts. Genetic data, generated from DNA isolated from deer scats, can be used to fill ecological knowledge gaps. This study outlines a non-invasive genetic sampling strategy by which good-quality DNA from a single deer scat can be used to determine (1) species of origin, (2) sex and (3) a unique DNA profile. DNA from deer tissue and sambar deer scat samples were used to develop and optimise molecular methods to collect reliable genetic information. A DNA toolbox is presented that describes how to find, collect and store scat samples, isolate DNA and use molecular markers to generate informative genetic data. Generating genetic data using this approach will support studies aimed at acquiring ecological knowledge about sambar deer. Such knowledge will be critical for developing evidence-based recommendations to improve on-ground management decisions for sambar deer.
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21
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Davies C, Wright W, Hogan F, Visintin C. Predicting deer–vehicle collision risk across Victoria, Australia. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am19042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The risk of deer–vehicle collisions (DVCs) is increasing in south-east Australia as populations of introduced deer expand rapidly. There are no investigations of the spatial and temporal patterns of DVC or predictions of where such collisions are most likely to occur. Here, we use an analytical framework to model deer distribution and vehicle movements in order to predict DVC risk across the State of Victoria. We modelled the occurrence of deer using existing occurrence records and geographic climatic variables. We estimated patterns of vehicular movements from records of average annual daily traffic and speeds. Given the low number of DVCs reported in Victoria, we used a generalised linear regression model fitted to DVCs in California, USA. The fitted model coefficients suggested high collision risk on road segments with high predicted deer occurrence, moderate traffic volume and high traffic speed. We used the California deer model to predict collision risk on Victorian roads and validated the predictions with two independent datasets of DVC records from Victoria. The California deer model performed well when comparing predictions of collision risk to the independent DVC datasets and generated plausible DVC risk predictions across the State of Victoria.
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22
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Davies C, Wright W, Hogan FE, Davies H. Detectability and activity patterns of sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in Baw Baw National Park, Victoria. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am19029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduced sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) are increasing in abundance and distribution across much of south-eastern Australia and causing damage to native ecosystems. However, the current paucity of knowledge surrounding many aspects of sambar deer ecology is limiting our capacity to make informed management decisions, and properly gauge the extent of deer impacts. Here we investigate correlates of sambar deer detectability and describe activity patterns of sambar deer in Baw Baw National Park (BBNP) to inform control operations. Camera traps were deployed in BBNP between October and December 2016. We used an occupancy modelling framework to investigate sambar deer detectability and camera trap record time stamps to determine sambar deer activity patterns. Sambar deer were found to be significantly more detectable near roads and in areas of sparse tree density and displayed strong crepuscular activity patterns. Control operations carried out along roads at dawn and dusk could be effective, at least in the short term. Likewise, aerial culling could be an effective control option for sambar deer populations in BBNP. This study highlights the utility of camera trap data to inform the application of control operations for cryptic invasive species.
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23
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Yen SC, Wang Y, Yu PH, Kuan YP, Liao YC, Chen KH, Weng GJ. Seasonal space use and habitat selection of sambar in Taiwan. J Wildl Manage 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Ching Yen
- Department of Life Science; National Taiwan Normal University; No. 88, Section 4, Tinzhou Road Taipei 116 Taiwan
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Life Science; National Taiwan Normal University; No. 88, Section 4, Tinzhou Road Taipei 116 Taiwan
| | - Pin-Huan Yu
- School of Veterinary Medicine; National Taiwan University; No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road Taipei 106 Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Peng Kuan
- School of Veterinary Medicine; National Taiwan University; No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road Taipei 106 Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chuan Liao
- Department of Life Science; National Taiwan Normal University; No. 88, Section 4, Tinzhou Road Taipei 116 Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Hsun Chen
- Department of Life Science; National Taiwan Normal University; No. 88, Section 4, Tinzhou Road Taipei 116 Taiwan
| | - Guo-Jing Weng
- Institute of Wildlife Conservation, College of Veterinary Medicine; National Pingtung University of Science and Technology; No. 1, Shuefu Road Neipu Pingtung 912 Taiwan
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24
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Forsyth DM, Caley P, Davis NE, Latham ADM, Woolnough AP, Woodford LP, Stamation KA, Moloney PD, Pascoe C. Functional responses of an apex predator and a mesopredator to an invading ungulate: Dingoes, red foxes and sambar deer in south-east Australia. AUSTRAL ECOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.12575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit; NSW Department of Primary Industries; 1447 Forest Road Orange New South Wales 2800 Australia
- School of BioSciences; The University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Peter Caley
- CSIRO; Canberra Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Naomi E. Davis
- School of BioSciences; The University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | | | - Andrew P. Woolnough
- Biosecurity Branch, Department of Economic Development; Jobs,Transport and Resources; Attwood Victoria Australia
| | - Luke P. Woodford
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning; Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research; Heidelberg Victoria Australia
| | - Kasey A. Stamation
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning; Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research; Heidelberg Victoria Australia
| | - Paul D. Moloney
- Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning; Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research; Heidelberg Victoria Australia
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25
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Martins RF, Schmidt A, Lenz D, Wilting A, Fickel J. Human-mediated introduction of introgressed deer across Wallace's line: Historical biogeography of Rusa unicolor and R. timorensis. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:1465-1479. [PMID: 29435225 PMCID: PMC5792523 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study we compared the phylogeographic patterns of two Rusa species, Rusa unicolor and Rusa timorensis, in order to understand what drove and maintained differentiation between these two geographically and genetically close species and investigated the route of introduction of individuals to the islands outside of the Sunda Shelf. We analyzed full mitogenomes from 56 archival samples from the distribution areas of the two species and 18 microsatellite loci in a subset of 16 individuals to generate the phylogeographic patterns of both species. Bayesian inference with fossil calibration was used to estimate the age of each species and major divergence events. Our results indicated that the split between the two species took place during the Pleistocene, ~1.8 Mya, possibly driven by adaptations of R. timorensis to the drier climate found on Java compared to the other islands of Sundaland. Although both markers identified two well-differentiated clades, there was a largely discrepant pattern between mitochondrial and nuclear markers. While nDNA separated the individuals into the two species, largely in agreement with their museum label, mtDNA revealed that all R. timorensis sampled to the east of the Sunda shelf carried haplotypes from R. unicolor and one Rusa unicolor from South Sumatra carried a R. timorensis haplotype. Our results show that hybridization occurred between these two sister species in Sundaland during the Late Pleistocene and resulted in human-mediated introduction of hybrid descendants in all islands outside Sundaland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata F. Martins
- Department of Evolutionary GeneticsLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife ResearchBerlinGermany
| | - Anke Schmidt
- Department of Evolutionary GeneticsLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife ResearchBerlinGermany
| | - Dorina Lenz
- Department of Evolutionary GeneticsLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife ResearchBerlinGermany
| | - Andreas Wilting
- Department of Evolutionary GeneticsLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife ResearchBerlinGermany
| | - Joerns Fickel
- Department of Evolutionary GeneticsLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife ResearchBerlinGermany
- Institute for Biochemistry and BiologyUniversity of PotsdamPotsdamGermany
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26
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Liu H, Dong Y, Xing X, Yang F. Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Rusa unicolor hainana (Artiodactyla: Cervidae). CONSERV GENET RESOUR 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12686-017-0981-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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27
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Mehrpad S, Cleveland CA, DeNicola A, Dubey J, Yabsley MJ. Survey for selected pathogens in Philippine deer ( Rusa marianna ) from Guam, Marianna Islands, USA. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 11:36-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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28
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Bernard J, Grunenwald C, Stalis IH, Varney M, Zuba J, Gerhold R. Elaeophora in the meninges of a Malayan sambar (Rusa unicolor equina). J Vet Diagn Invest 2016; 28:735-738. [PMID: 27664097 DOI: 10.1177/1040638716669388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An adult nematode was grossly identified in the meninges of a Malayan sambar (Rusa unicolor equina), with numerous microfilariae associated with encephalitis and vasculitis on histopathology. The nematode was confirmed to be Elaeophora schneideri by sequencing a portion of the 18S rRNA gene. Our report highlights the potential for aberrant migration of E. schneideri in exotic deer species and the use of advanced testing to specifically identify this metazoan parasite, avoiding misidentification of Parelaphostrongylus tenuis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Bernard
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
| | - Caroline Grunenwald
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
| | - Ilse H Stalis
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
| | - Megan Varney
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
| | - Jeff Zuba
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
| | - Richard Gerhold
- Wildlife Disease Laboratories, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA (Bernard, Stalis, Varney)Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (Gerhold, Grunenwald)Department of Veterinary Services, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA (Zuba)
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29
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Suraprasit K, Jaeger JJ, Chaimanee Y, Chavasseau O, Yamee C, Tian P, Panha S. The Middle Pleistocene vertebrate fauna from Khok Sung (Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand): biochronological and paleobiogeographical implications. Zookeys 2016:1-157. [PMID: 27667928 PMCID: PMC5027644 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.613.8309] [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: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fluviatile terrace deposits of Khok Sung, Nakhon Ratchasima province, have yielded more than one thousand fossils, making this the richest Pleistocene vertebrate fauna of Thailand. The excellent preservation of the specimens allows precise characterization of the faunal composition. The mammalian fauna consists of fifteen species in thirteen genera, including a primate, a canid, a hyaenid, proboscideans, rhinoceroses, a suid, cervids, and bovids. Most species correspond to living taxa but globally (Stegodon cf. orientalis) and locally (Crocuta crocuta ultima, Rhinoceros unicornis, Sus barbatus, and Axis axis) extinct taxa were also present. The identification of Axis axis in Khok Sung, a chital currently restricted to the Indian Subcontinent, represents the first record of the species in Southeast Asia. Three reptilian taxa: Crocodylus cf. siamensis, Python sp., and Varanus sp., are also identified. Faunal correlations with other Southeast Asian sites suggest a late Middle to early Late Pleistocene age for the Khok Sung assemblage. However, the Khok Sung mammalian fauna is most similar to that of Thum Wiman Nakin, dated to older than 169 ka. The Khok Sung large mammal assemblage mostly comprises mainland Southeast Asian taxa that migrated to Java during the latest Middle Pleistocene, supporting the hypothesis that Thailand was a biogeographic pathway for the Sino-Malayan migration event from South China to Java.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kantapon Suraprasit
- Institut International de Paléoprimatologie et de Paléontologie Humaine: Evolution et Paléoenvironnements, UMR CNRS 7262, Université de Poitiers, 6 rue Michel Brunet, 86022 Poitiers, France; Biological Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Animal Systematics Research Unit, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Jean-Jacques Jaeger
- Institut International de Paléoprimatologie et de Paléontologie Humaine: Evolution et Paléoenvironnements, UMR CNRS 7262, Université de Poitiers, 6 rue Michel Brunet, 86022 Poitiers, France
| | - Yaowalak Chaimanee
- Institut International de Paléoprimatologie et de Paléontologie Humaine: Evolution et Paléoenvironnements, UMR CNRS 7262, Université de Poitiers, 6 rue Michel Brunet, 86022 Poitiers, France
| | - Olivier Chavasseau
- Institut International de Paléoprimatologie et de Paléontologie Humaine: Evolution et Paléoenvironnements, UMR CNRS 7262, Université de Poitiers, 6 rue Michel Brunet, 86022 Poitiers, France
| | - Chotima Yamee
- Department of Mineral Resources, Rama VI Road, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Pannipa Tian
- Department of Mineral Resources, Rama VI Road, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Somsak Panha
- Animal Systematics Research Unit, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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30
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Heckeberg NS, Erpenbeck D, Wörheide G, Rössner GE. Systematic relationships of five newly sequenced cervid species. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2307. [PMID: 27602278 PMCID: PMC4991894 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervid phylogenetics has been puzzling researchers for over 150 years. In recent decades, molecular systematics has provided new input for both the support and revision of the previous results from comparative anatomy but has led to only partial consensus. Despite all of the efforts to reach taxon-wide species sampling over the last two decades, a number of cervid species still lack molecular data because they are difficult to access in the wild. By extracting ancient DNA from museum specimens, in this study, we obtained partial mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences for Mazama bricenii, Mazama chunyi, Muntiacus atherodes, Pudu mephistophiles, and Rusa marianna, including three holotypes. These new sequences were used to enrich the existing mitochondrial DNA alignments and yielded the most taxonomically complete data set for cervids to date. Phylogenetic analyses provide new insights into the evolutionary history of these five species. However, systematic uncertainties within Muntiacus persist and resolving phylogenetic relationships within Pudu and Mazama remain challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola S Heckeberg
- Department for Earth and Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology & Geobiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; SNSB-Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, Munich, Germany; Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Dirk Erpenbeck
- Department for Earth and Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology & Geobiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; GeoBio-Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Gert Wörheide
- Department for Earth and Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology & Geobiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; SNSB-Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, Munich, Germany; GeoBio-Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Gertrud E Rössner
- Department for Earth and Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology & Geobiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; SNSB-Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, Munich, Germany; GeoBio-Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Gupta SK, Kumar A, Gaur A, Hussain SA. Detection of 40 bp insertion-deletion (INDEL) in mitochondrial control region among sambar (Rusa unicolor) populations in India. BMC Res Notes 2015; 8:581. [PMID: 26483190 PMCID: PMC4617744 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-015-1573-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region is extensively used in the phylogeography of species. We examined sequence variations in the mtDNA control region of sambar (Rusa unicolor) populations from the South, Central and North India. Results Most of the samples collected from the south India exhibited a 40 bp insertion in the mtDNA control region. This insertion was not observed in the North and Central Indian populations. Conclusion This study provided a potential marker for molecular screening and identification of sambar populations in the form of a distinct 40 bp insertion. Some populations in South India did not exhibit this insertion. It indicates that there could be an ecological barrier that might be preventing the expansion of insertion-positive sambar population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ajit Kumar
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, 248 001, India.
| | - Ajay Gaur
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES), CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, India.
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Yen SC, Lin CY, Hew SW, Yang SY, Yeh CF, Weng GJ. Characterization of Debarking Behavior by Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor) in Taiwan. MAMMAL STUDY 2015. [DOI: 10.3106/041.040.0304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Pluháček J, Ceacero F, Lupták P. First records of preorbital gland opening in rare wild barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii) in social contexts may help to explain this phenomenon in cervids. Behav Processes 2015. [PMID: 26200392 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The opening of the preorbital gland in deer serves as a visual communication and has been linked to a wide variety of behavioural situations. As we reported recently, all previous long-term studies on preorbital gland opening were carried out on only one species, whereas case reports on six other rarely studied species have shown associations with different behaviours, thus greatly increasing our overall understanding of the real function of this gland in animal visual communication. Here, we report for the first time preorbital gland opening in the barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii) in social contexts as observed in a wild population in Kanha National Park, India. We observed this behaviour in two different contexts: agonistic and sexual. Moreover, our record of preorbital gland opening during copulation is the first one amongst cervids. Our findings of preorbital gland opening in both contexts in wild barasingha indicate that the gland was opened only when the individual was highly excited. We suggest that preorbital gland opening may be an important behavioural indicator of an individual involved in a serious intraspecific interaction, and thus a useful tool with which to distinguish between playful and serious behaviours, especially in agonistic and sexual situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Pluháček
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, 104 00 Praha - Uhříněves, Czech Republic; Ostrava Zoo, Michálkovická 197, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Francisco Ceacero
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, 104 00 Praha - Uhříněves, Czech Republic; Department of Animal Sciences and Food Processing, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 21 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Lupták
- Bojnice Zoo, Zámok a okolie 6, 972 01 Bojnice, Slovakia
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Vongpralub T, Chinchiyanond W, Hongkuntod P, Sanchaisuriya P, Liangpaiboon S, Thongprayoon A, Somphol N. Cryopreservation of Sambar deer semen in Thailand. Zoo Biol 2015; 34:335-44. [PMID: 25913733 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Little is known of the different freezing and thawing techniques for post-thaw survival of spermatozoa in Sambar deer. So, this study determined the effect of seminal plasma, egg yolk and glycerol extenders and their concentrations, plus cooling, freezing, and thawing protocols on the post-thaw quality of their semen. Semen samples were collected by electro-ejaculation from four Thai Sambar deer stags (Cervus unicolor equinus). As evaluated by post-thaw progressive motility and acrosome integrity removal of seminal plasma was beneficial; Tris-egg yolk was the most efficient extender; a 20% egg yolk concentration was better than the 0%, 10%, or 30%; and a 3% glycerol concentration was better than 5%, 7%, or 9%. Using the optimum dilution techniques, semen was loaded in 0.5 ml plastic straws. Cooling times from ambient temperature to 5°C in 3 hr resulted in higher post-thaw progressive motility and acrosome integrity than 1, 2, or 4 hr. Suspending the straws 4 cm above the surface for 15 min before plunging into liquid nitrogen was better than suspending at 2 or 6 cm. For thawing frozen semen, an intermediate thawing (50°C, 8 sec) protocol was more effective than the slower (37°C, 10 sec) or faster (70°C, 5 sec) thawing rates. Timed insemination following estrus synchronization of 10 hinds resulted in six confirmed pregnancies at 60 days. Five hinds delivered live fawns. This study provides an effective approach for semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination (AI), which should be valuable to scientists for genetics and reproductive management of Sambar deer in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thevin Vongpralub
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Wittaya Chinchiyanond
- Wildlife Conservation Bureau, National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornchai Hongkuntod
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Pitcharat Sanchaisuriya
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Sanan Liangpaiboon
- Wildlife Conservation Bureau, National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Areeya Thongprayoon
- Wildlife Conservation Bureau, National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Noppadon Somphol
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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Bennett A, Haydon S, Stevens M, Coulson G. Culling reduces fecal pellet deposition by introduced sambar (Rusa unicolor) in a protected water catchment. WILDLIFE SOC B 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ami Bennett
- School of BioSciences; The University of Melbourne; Parkville VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Shane Haydon
- Melbourne Water; 990 La Trobe St, Docklands VIC 3008 Australia
| | - Melita Stevens
- Melbourne Water; 990 La Trobe St, Docklands VIC 3008 Australia
| | - Graeme Coulson
- School of BioSciences; The University of Melbourne; Parkville VIC 3010 Australia
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Forsyth DM, Woodford L, Moloney PD, Hampton JO, Woolnough AP, Tucker M. How does a carnivore guild utilise a substantial but unpredictable anthropogenic food source? Scavenging on hunter-shot ungulate carcasses by wild dogs/dingoes, red foxes and feral cats in south-eastern Australia revealed by camera traps. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97937. [PMID: 24918425 PMCID: PMC4053338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There is much interest in understanding how anthropogenic food resources subsidise carnivore populations. Carcasses of hunter-shot ungulates are a potentially substantial food source for mammalian carnivores. The sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) is a large (≥150 kg) exotic ungulate that can be hunted throughout the year in south-eastern Australia, and hunters are not required to remove or bury carcasses. We investigated how wild dogs/dingoes and their hybrids (Canis lupus familiaris/dingo), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cats (Felis catus) utilised sambar deer carcasses during the peak hunting seasons (i.e. winter and spring). We placed carcasses at 1-km intervals along each of six transects that extended 4-km into forest from farm boundaries. Visits to carcasses were monitored using camera traps, and the rate of change in edible biomass estimated at ∼14-day intervals. Wild dogs and foxes fed on 70% and 60% of 30 carcasses, respectively, but feral cats seldom (10%) fed on carcasses. Spatial and temporal patterns of visits to carcasses were consistent with the hypothesis that foxes avoid wild dogs. Wild dog activity peaked at carcasses 2 and 3 km from farms, a likely legacy of wild dog control, whereas fox activity peaked at carcasses 0 and 4 km from farms. Wild dog activity peaked at dawn and dusk, whereas nearly all fox activity occurred after dusk and before dawn. Neither wild dogs nor foxes remained at carcasses for long periods and the amount of feeding activity by either species was a less important predictor of the loss of edible biomass than season. Reasons for the low impacts of wild dogs and foxes on sambar deer carcass biomass include the spatially and temporally unpredictable distribution of carcasses in the landscape, the rapid rate of edible biomass decomposition in warm periods, low wild dog densities and the availability of alternative food resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Forsyth
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Luke Woodford
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul D. Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jordan O. Hampton
- Ecotone Wildlife Veterinary Services, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Andrew P. Woolnough
- Invasive Plants and Animals Branch, Biosecurity Division, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Tucker
- Melbourne Water, Reefton, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
AbstractThe sambar deerRusa unicoloris categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List because of continuous population decline across its native range. In Taiwan the Formosan sambar deerR. unicolor swinhoiiis listed as a protected species under the Wildlife Conservation Act because of human overexploitation. However, its population status remains unclear. We used presence and absence data from line transect and camera-trap surveys to identify key habitat variables and to map potential habitats available to this subspecies in Taiwan. We applied five habitat-suitability models: logistic regression, discriminant analysis, ecological-niche factor analysis, genetic algorithm for rule-set production, and maximum entropy. We then combined the results of all five models into an ensemble-forecasting model to facilitate a more robust prediction. This model indicated the existence of 7,865 km2of suitable habitat for the sambar deer. Distance from roads and elevation were identified as the most important environmental variables for habitat suitability, and deer preferred areas far from roads and > 1,500 m altitude. The results predicted that suitable deer habitat is mainly located in Taiwan's Central Mountain Range and Xue Mountain Range, with c. 70% of this suitable habitat in protected areas. However, the habitat predicted to be suitable is in five areas separated by mountain highways. We recommend that deer habitats close to the highways should be monitored for the future establishment of corridors between Formosan sambar deer sub-populations.
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Radhakrishnan S, Gopalan AKK, Ravindran R, Rajagopal K, Sooryadas S, Promod K. First record of Chrysomya albiceps Wiedemann, 1819 (Diptera: Calliphoridae) maggots from a sambar deer (Rusa unicolor) in Kerala, South India. J Parasit Dis 2013; 36:280-2. [PMID: 24082544 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-012-0110-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fully grown third stage larvae (LIII) of Chrysomya albiceps were recovered from aberrant sites viz. trachea and rumen during necropsy of a free-range sambar deer that had been observed to bear an inflamed tongue infested with maggots and subsequently died due to starvation. Five dead maggots of C. bezziana were also recovered from rumen. The aberrant locations of the recovery of the maggots indicated that they might have reached these sites accidentally. This is the first report of LIII of C. albiceps from a sambar deer from Kerala, South India.
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Using BAD for good: how best available data facilitated a precautionary policy change to improve protection of the prey of the tiger Panthera tigris in Malaysia. ORYX 2013. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605312000294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractTiger Panthera tigris populations are under threat from poaching and depletion of their prey populations. The National Tiger Action Plan for Malaysia contains several actions addressing the threat of legal and illegal hunting of tiger prey species. One action in this plan required an investigation of whether urgent policy changes were needed to improve the protection of the prey of tigers, based on existing data. As the lack of reliable baseline data prevented us from determining population trends accurately, we compiled camera-trapping data from 23 studies conducted between 1997 and 2008 on four principal tiger prey species (sambar Rusa unicolor, barking deer Muntiacus muntjac, wild boar Sus scrofa and bearded pig S. barbatus) and two potential prey species (gaur Bos gaurus and Malayan tapir Tapirus indicus) and compared their distributions and relative abundances. From 10,145 wildlife photographs spanning 40,303 trap-nights, sambar, bearded pig and gaur appeared to be most threatened given their restricted distribution and low relative abundance. Among these, the gaur has full legal protection and has received more conservation attention than the other two species. Following our assessment and advocacy a 6-year moratorium on hunting both sambar and barking deer was imposed by the Malaysian government and the highest protection status possible was afforded the bearded pig. This case study illustrates how best available data (BAD), in this case from camera-trapping studies, can be harnessed to effect precautionary policy changes to curb the impacts of hunting on threatened predator and prey populations that could crash well before resources would otherwise be available for rigorous scientific assessments.
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