1
|
Busi A, Castaño-Villa GJ, Rivera-Páez FA. Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) on resident and migratory wild birds in Orinoquia region, Colombia. Acta Trop 2024; 254:107210. [PMID: 38599442 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107210] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Several species of hard ticks, including those of the genera Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, Amblyomma, and Rhipicephalus, are of medical and veterinary importance and have been reported in association with Neotropical wild birds. Colombia, known for its great bird diversity, has 57 confirmed tick species. However, there are few studies on the association between wild birds and ticks in Colombia. The Orinoquia region, a migratory center in Colombia, provides a unique opportunity to study wild bird-tick associations and their implications for tick-borne disease dynamics. Our study, conducted between October and December 2021, aimed to identify hard ticks infesting resident and migratory wild birds in the department of Arauca and to assess the presence of bacteria from the genera Anaplasma, Borrelia, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and piroplasms. A total of 383 birds were examined, of which 21 were infested. We collected 147 ticks, including Amblyomma dissimile (larvae), Amblyomma longirostre (nymphs), Amblyomma mixtum (adults), and Amblyomma nodosum (larvae and nymphs). We did not detect bacterial DNA in the tested ticks; however, piroplasm DNA was detected in ticks from three of the infested birds. Of the 21 bird-tick associations, six are new to the Americas, and interesting documentation of piroplasm DNA in A. longirostre, A. nodosum, and A. dissimile ticks from wild birds in the region. This study provides valuable insights into the ticks associated with wild birds and their role in the dispersal of ticks and pathogens in Colombia, enhancing our understanding of tick life cycles and tick-borne disease dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Busi
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Biodiversidad y Manejo de Ecosistemas (GEBIOME), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Caldas, Calle 65 No. 26-10, Manizales, Caldas 170004, Colombia; Doctorado en Ciencias-Agrarias, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Caldas, Calle 64b No. 25-65 170004, Manizales, Caldas, Colombia
| | - Gabriel J Castaño-Villa
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Biodiversidad y Manejo de Ecosistemas (GEBIOME), Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Caldas, Calle 64b No. 25-65 170004, Manizales, Caldas, Colombia
| | - Fredy A Rivera-Páez
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Biodiversidad y Manejo de Ecosistemas (GEBIOME), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Caldas, Calle 65 No. 26-10, Manizales, Caldas 170004, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pugliese N, Samarelli R, Lombardi R, Schiavone A, Crescenzo G, Circella E, Zizzadoro C, Lai O, Saleh MS, Prioletti M, Camarda A. A Safe and Effective Atovaquone-Proguanil Therapeutic Protocol for the Treatment of Avian Malaria by Plasmodium relictum in Snowy Owl ( Bubo scandiacus). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3457. [PMID: 38003076 PMCID: PMC10668658 DOI: 10.3390/ani13223457] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian malaria is a re-emerging threat to avian species worldwide. It is sustained by several protozoan species belonging to the genus Plasmodium, mainly Plasmodium relictum. The even wider diffusion of the disease, probably because of the increase in the areas covered by their mosquito vectors, may pose new risks for avian species lacking natural resistance (especially those from artic or sub-artic environments) or those hosted in structures like zoos and wildlife rescue centers. With that premise, this study describes the efficacy and safety of a therapeutic protocol to treat avian malaria in three snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) hosted in a wildlife rescue center in Apulia, south of Italy, and affected by avian malaria by P. relictum. The protocol consisted of administering 10/4 mg/kg atovaquone/proguanil per os once a day for three consecutive days, repeating this seven days later. Seven days after the end of the treatment, P. relictum was not detected in the birds' blood and no adverse effects were observed during the 60 days of monitoring after the end of the treatment. Therefore, a therapeutic regimen of 10/4 mg/kg/day may be considered safe and effective in a valuable and endangered species such as B. scandiacus.
Collapse
|
3
|
Briggs CW, Dudus KA, Ely TE, Kwasnoski LA, Downs CJ. Hemolytic parasites affect survival in migrating red-tailed hawks. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac075. [PMID: 36570735 PMCID: PMC9773370 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Migrating birds face a myriad of hazards, including higher exposure to parasites and numerous competing energy demands. It follows that migration may act as a selective filter and limit population growth. Understanding how individual-level physiological condition and disease status scale up to population dynamics through differential survival of individuals is necessary to identify threats and management interventions for migratory populations, many of which face increasing conservation challenges. However, linking individual physiological condition, parasite infection status and survival can be difficult. We examined the relationship among two measures of physiological condition [scaled-mass index and heterophil/leukocyte (H/L) ratio], hematozoa (i.e. hemoparasites) presence and abundance, and constitutive immunity in 353 autumn migrating red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis calurus) from 2004 to 2018. Hematazoa (i.e. Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) were in the blood smears from 139 red-tailed hawks (39.4%). H/L ratio decreased with scaled-mass index. Adults had a significantly higher H/L ratio than juveniles. Our two measures of immune defences, hemolytic-complement activity and bacteria-killing ability, were highly positively correlated. Our most notable finding was a negative relationship between Haemoproteus parasitemia and survival (i.e. documented individual mortality), indicating that haemosporidian parasites influence survival during a challenging life stage. The effect of haemosporidian parasites on individuals is often debated, and we provide evidence that parasitemia can affect individual survival. In contrast, we did not find evidence of trade-offs between survival and immune defences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Briggs
- Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
- Department of Biology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
- Department of Environmental Biology, State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Kris A Dudus
- Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
- National Park Service, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563, USA
| | - Teresa E Ely
- Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
| | | | - Cynthia J Downs
- Corresponding author: Department of Environmental Biology, State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Schoepf I, Olson S, Moore IT, Bonier F. Experimental reduction of haemosporidian infection affects maternal reproductive investment, parental behaviour and offspring condition. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221978. [PMID: 36448284 PMCID: PMC9709520 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
When hosts have a long coevolutionary history with their parasites, fitness costs of chronic infection have often been assumed to be negligible. Yet, experimental manipulation of infections sometimes reveals effects of parasites on their hosts, particularly during reproduction. Whether these effects translate into fitness costs remains unclear. Here, we present the results of an experimental study conducted in a free-ranging population of red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) naturally experiencing a high prevalence of haemosporidian infections, with more than 95% of breeding adults infected with parasites from one or more haemosporidian genus. To assess effects of infection during reproduction, we manipulated adult red-winged blackbird females' parasite burden by administering an anti-haemosporidian medication before onset of egg-laying. Experimental reduction of infection resulted in significant benefits to mothers and their offspring. Medicated females laid heavier clutches, invested more in incubation and provisioning behaviour, and produced more fledglings than control females. Nestlings of medicated females had higher haematocrit, higher blood glucose, and lower reactive oxygen metabolites than nestlings of control females. Overall, our results provide evidence that, even in a species with high prevalence of infection, parasites can lead to decreased maternal investment and offspring quality, substantially reducing fitness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Schoepf
- Biology Department, Queen's University, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, 1405 Perry Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- University of Alberta, Augustana Campus, 4901 46 Avenue, Camrose, Alberta, Canada T4V 2R3
| | - Sarena Olson
- Biology Department, Queen's University, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Ignacio T. Moore
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, 1405 Perry Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Frances Bonier
- Biology Department, Queen's University, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nourani L, Aliabadian M, Mirshamsi O, Dinparast Djadid N. Prevalence of co-infection and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in two rehabilitation facilities in Iran: implications for the conservation of captive raptors. BMC Ecol Evol 2022; 22:114. [PMID: 36209068 PMCID: PMC9547439 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-022-02068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Various haemosporidian parasites infect raptors, especially captive hosts who may be more exposed. Diagnosis of threatening factors such as infectious diseases indirectly has a significant role in protecting endangered or threatened species that may boost the mortality or extinction resulting from declined reproduction. Few investigations have been performed in captive hosts to detect the prevalence of haemosporidian parasites and define genetic diversity in west Asia. For the first time, the current study was designed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of haemosporidian parasites in captive raptors by molecular methods in two rehabilitation facilities in North and North-east Iran and to define phylogenetic relationships of detected lineages circulating in raptors. Results Molecular characterization of the haemosporidian parasite was accomplished by PCR-based method and DNA sequencing in 62 captive raptors. The overall prevalence was ~ 36% with higher infection of Haemoproteus spp. than Leucocytozoon spp. Plasmodium infection was not detected in any host. Results showed that 22 individuals (of 10 species) were infected with unique lineages. Genus Haemoproteus was detected in 26.66% of examined individuals (of eight species) and Leucocytozoon was found in 10% of individuals (of four species). The molecular analysis could detect ten lineages (nine Haemoproteus spp. and one Leucocytozoon spp.) which were categorizes as new and six lineages which have been previously detected in the other investigations. Conclusions The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis derived from obtained data in the present study and published lineages in previous investigations indicated the probable host specificity of Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon parasites in several sub-clades at hosts’ order and genus level. As monitoring the parasite loads of captive birds when admitted reduce the risk of infecting hosts in captivity at those locations, we designed this study to determine infection prevalence and genetic diversity of blood parasites in raptors examined in Iran. These results allow mapping of haemosporidian distribution and shed light on the depth of their diversity in Iran to protect species by identification of risk in rehabilitation facilities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12862-022-02068-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nourani
- grid.420169.80000 0000 9562 2611Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mansour Aliabadian
- grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI), Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Omid Mirshamsi
- grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411301.60000 0001 0666 1211Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI), Institute of Applied Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- grid.420169.80000 0000 9562 2611Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tolerability of Atovaquone—Proguanil Application in Common Buzzard Nestlings. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080397. [PMID: 36006311 PMCID: PMC9414624 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many wild animals, and particularly birds, are commonly infected and can suffer health consequences by blood parasites related to Plasmodium, the causative agents of malaria in humans. Atovaquone–proguanil (Malarone®, GlaxoSmithKline) is one of the most popular drugs for the treatment of malaria infections in humans and is commonly used for the treatment of birds in captivity. Our aim was to test the potential effects of Malarone® within one week of treatment on the growth rate, body condition, and blood chemistry of common buzzard nestlings, a widely distributed Eurasian bird of prey. We found no evidence of detrimental effects of a single dose in common buzzard nestlings with an average dosage of 11 mg/kg, compared with the 7 mg/kg recommended daily dosage in humans. Although Malarone® is commonly used in wildlife rehabilitation centres, and our results do not indicate acute toxicity, further studies are needed to determine the half-life and potential long-term effects of Malarone® treatment in birds. Abstract Differences in drug tolerability among vertebrate groups and species can create substantial challenges for wildlife and ex situ conservation programmes. Knowledge of tolerance in the use of new drugs is, therefore, important to avoid severe toxicity in species, which are both commonly admitted in veterinary clinics and are of conservation concern. Antimalarial drugs have been developed for use in human medicine, but treatment with different agents has also long been used in avian medicine, as haemosporidian infections play a major role in many avian species. This study investigates the effects of the application of atovaquone–proguanil (Malarone®, GlaxoSmithKline) in common buzzards (Buteo buteo). The potential effects of treatment on body condition, growth rate, and chemical blood parameters of nestlings were assessed. All individuals survived the treatment, and no effects on body condition, growth rate, and chemical blood parameters were observed. Our results suggest the tolerability of Malarone® in common buzzards at a single dose of on average 11 mg/kg body weight. For its safe use, we recommend further studies to determine pharmacokinetics in different avian species as well as to assess the effects of repeated treatment.
Collapse
|
7
|
Ebani VV, Mancianti F. Potential Role of Avian Populations in the Epidemiology of Rickettsia spp. and Babesia spp. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8120334. [PMID: 34941861 PMCID: PMC8709085 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8120334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Birds often are carriers of hard and/or soft ticks harboring pathogens of humans and veterinary concern. Migratory avian species, which cover long distance by their flight, may deeply influence the ticks’ distribution worldwide; in particular, they can introduce in a given geographic area new tick species and related tick-borne pathogens. Studies about the detection of tick-borne agents in birds are not numerous, whereas more attention has been turned to the presence of these microorganisms in ticks carried by birds. The present review focused on the role of avian populations in the epidemiology of rickettsioses and babesioses, which represent two severe problems for the health of humans and other mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Virginia Ebani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-221-6968
| | - Francesca Mancianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wiegmann A, Springer A, Rinaud T, Ottensmann M, Legler M, Krüger O, Fehr M, Chakarov N, Strube C. The prevalence of Leucocytozoon spp. in nestlings of three wild raptor species including implications on haematological and blood chemistry values. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 16:236-243. [PMID: 34760619 PMCID: PMC8567326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Leucocytozoonosis is a vector-borne infection of birds, caused by members of the haemosporidian genus Leucocytozoon. The clinical presentation may range from asymptomatic to severe disease. Consequences of Leucocytozoon infection on blood profiles remain to be described, especially for different host species in the wild. In the current study, the prevalence of Leucocytozoon infection was determined in wild nestlings of three European raptor species, the common buzzard (Buteo buteo, n = 464), red kite (Milvus milvus, n = 46) and northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis, n = 18). Among 528 nestlings, 51.9% (n = 274) were infected with Leucocytozoon spp., whereby the highest prevalence was found in common buzzards (54.9%), followed by red kites (32.6%) and northern goshawks (22.2%). For a subset of 87 individuals (50 common buzzards, 29 red kites, 8 northern goshawks), a detailed analysis of differential leukocyte counts and several blood chemistry parameters in response to infection was conducted: AP (alkaline phosphatase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), GLDH (glutamate dehydrogenase), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), GGT (gamma glutamyl transferase), CK (creatine kinase), BuChE (butyrylcholinesterase), BA (bile acids), ALB (albumin) and TP (total protein). Even though in the physiological range, infected nestlings displayed significantly increased levels of heterophils, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, bile acids and butyrylcholinesterase, but decreased lymphocyte and monocyte values compared to uninfected ones. Furthermore, significant species differences with regard to blood parameters, but no sex differences were found. Overall, obtained results show a high prevalence, but a low pathogenicity of Leucocytozoon spp. in wild raptor chicks, presumably resulting from coevolutionary adaptation, but show signatures of infection in the haematological and blood chemistry profiles. Leucocytozoon prevalence in nestlings of three wild raptor species was 52%. Common buzzards (Buteo buteo) showed the highest prevalence (55%). Examined blood parameter values varied with species, age and infection status. Leucocytozoon infections were associated with increased AST and BuChE. Leucocytozoon infections in Accipitridae nestlings seem to be of minor pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Wiegmann
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.,Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tony Rinaud
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Meinolf Ottensmann
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Marko Legler
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Krüger
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Michael Fehr
- Clinic for Small Mammals, Reptiles and Birds, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 9, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nayden Chakarov
- Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University, Konsequenz 45, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Thorel M, Chavatte JM, Landau I, Lemberger K, Leclerc A. First case of Plasmodium relictum lineage pGRW11 infection in a captive-bred common eider (Somateria Mollissima) in Europe. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100529. [PMID: 33678383 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A 4-year-old, female common Eider (Somateria mollissima) was presented for mild lethargy with no previous medical history. Numerous intraerythrocytic, round-shaped inclusions were visualized on blood smears, later morphologically identified as Plasmodium relictum parasites. Despite oral doxycycline treatment, clinical condition declined 48 h later. Supportive care was initiated, but the bird died rapidly. Necropsy revealed acute, internal hemorrhages (lungs, air sacs) and subcutaneous, diffuse cervical hematoma, associated with resuscitation attempts. Marked, multicentric amyloidosis (kidney, liver, spleen) was the main histological finding. Molecular analysis identified lineage pGRW11 of P. relictum. This is the first reported case of P. relictum lineage pGRW11 infection in a common Eider. This report describes the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and associated pathological findings of infection by P. relictum lineage pGRW11 in a common Eider.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Thorel
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher, France.
| | - Jean-Marc Chavatte
- UMR 7245 MCAM MNHN CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 61 rue Buffon, CP52, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France; Malaria Reference Centre - National Public Health Laboratory, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Health, Level 13, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308422, Singapore
| | - Irène Landau
- UMR 7245 MCAM MNHN CNRS, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, 61 rue Buffon, CP52, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Karin Lemberger
- Vet Diagnostics, 3 Avenue de la Victoire, 69260 Charbonnières-les-Bains, France
| | - Antoine Leclerc
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Morel AP, Webster A, Prusch F, Anicet M, Marsicano G, Trainini G, Stocker J, Giani D, Bandarra PM, da Rocha MIS, Zitelli LC, Umeno KA, Souza UA, Dall'Agnol B, Reck J. Molecular detection and phylogenetic relationship of Haemosporida parasites in free-ranging wild raptors from Brazil. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 23:100521. [PMID: 33678376 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The order Haemosporida is widely distributed parasitizing members of the Aves class. In birds of prey, infection with Plasmodium spp. parasites varies from an apathogenic form to a clinical syndrome. However, studies on Haemosporida in raptors from the neotropical region are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate natural infection by Plasmodium spp., Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. in free-ranging wild raptors from southern Brazil. For this, we sampled 206 individuals of 21 species: 94 live-trapped Southern Caracaras (Caracara plancus) and 112 raptors from other species that were brought to rehabilitation centers. The presence of infection was investigated using a nested-PCR for Haemosporida performed on blood samples. Overall, 56 out of 206 birds were positive for Plasmodium spp./Haemoproteus spp. Twenty-two percent (21/94) of the C. plancus samples were positive. Of the 112 wild raptors rescued, 31% (35/112) of those belonging to 15 other species tested positive. No sample was positive for Leucocytozoon spp. Herein, we demonstrated nine lineages of Haemosporidian parasites (eight Plasmodium sp. and one Haemoproteus sp.) in free-living species of Brazilian birds of prey, being six of them potential novel lineages. It suggests that information currently available on South-American haemosporidian from these birds greatly underestimate the potential lineage diversity in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Morel
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Anelise Webster
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabiane Prusch
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marina Anicet
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gleide Marsicano
- Clinica Veterinária Toca dos Bichos, Marechal José Inácio da Silva, 404 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Trainini
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Julian Stocker
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Denise Giani
- Hayabusa Consultoria Ambiental, Estrada da Carapina, 1001 São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Paulo Mota Bandarra
- Núcleo de Rabilitação de Fauna Silvestre-NURFS, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPEL), Campus Universitário, Capão do Leão, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Larissa Caló Zitelli
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Karen Akemi Umeno
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ugo Araújo Souza
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruno Dall'Agnol
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Reck
- Centro de Pequisa em Saúde Animal, Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Estrada do Conde, 6000 Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pacheco MA, Parish CN, Hauck TJ, Aguilar RF, Escalante AA. The endangered California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) population is exposed to local haemosporidian parasites. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17947. [PMID: 33087805 PMCID: PMC7578645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74894-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The endangered California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is the largest New World Vulture in North America. Despite recovery program success in saving the species from extinction, condors remain compromised by lead poisoning and limited genetic diversity. The latter makes this species especially vulnerable to infectious diseases. Thus, taking advantage of the program of blood lead testing in Arizona, condor blood samples from 2008 to 2018 were screened for haemosporidian parasites using a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol that targets the parasite mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Plasmodium homopolare (Family Plasmodiidae, Order Haemosporida, Phylum Apicomplexa), was detected in condors captured in 2014 and 2017. This is the first report of a haemosporidian species infecting California Condors, and the first evidence of P. homopolare circulating in the Condor population from Arizona. Although no evidence of pathogenicity of P. homopolare in Condors was found, this study showed that the California Condors from Arizona are exposed to haemosporidian parasites that likely are spilling over from other local bird species. Thus, active surveillance should be an essential part of conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases, an increasingly recognized cause of global wildlife extinctions worldwide, particularly in avian populations considered vulnerable or endangered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Andreína Pacheco
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University (SERC - 645), 1925 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA.
| | - Chris N Parish
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Timothy J Hauck
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Roberto F Aguilar
- Tucson Wildlife Center, 13275 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ, 85748-7125, USA
| | - Ananias A Escalante
- Biology Department/Institute of Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine (iGEM), Temple University (SERC - 645), 1925 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19122-1801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yu J, Kimble B, Norris JM, Govendir M. Pharmacokinetic Profile of Oral Administration of Mefloquine to Clinically Normal Cats: A Preliminary In-Vivo Study of a Potential Treatment for Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10061000. [PMID: 32521771 PMCID: PMC7341284 DOI: 10.3390/ani10061000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In searching for antiviral agents against feline coronaviruses and feline caliciviruses, mefloquine, a human anti-malarial drug, has been demonstrated to reduce viral load of feline coronaviruses and feline calicivirus in infected cells. In this study, mefloquine was administered orally to seven clinically healthy cats twice weekly for four doses and mefloquine concentrations in blood were measured to investigate the pharmacokinetic profile—the movement of drug in the body. The maximum blood concentration of mefloquine was 2.71 ug/mL and was reached 15 h after a single oral dose was administered. Mefloquine side effects included vomiting following administration without food in some cats, and mild increases in symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), an early kidney biomarker. This study provides valuable information on mefloquine’s profile in cats as an introductory step towards investigating it as a potential treatment for feline coronavirus and feline calicivirus infection in cats. Abstract The pharmacokinetic profile of mefloquine was investigated as a preliminary study towards a potential treatment for feline coronavirus infections (such as feline infectious peritonitis) or feline calicivirus infections. Mefloquine was administered at 62.5 mg orally to seven clinically healthy cats twice weekly for four doses and mefloquine plasma concentrations over 336 h were measured using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The peak plasma concentration (Cmax) after a single oral dose of mefloquine was 2.71 ug/mL and time to reach Cmax (Tmax) was 15 h. The elimination half-life was 224 h. The plasma concentration reached a higher level at 4.06 ug/mL when mefloquine was administered with food. Adverse effects of dosing included vomiting following administration without food in some cats. Mild increases in serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), but not creatinine, concentrations were observed. Mefloquine may provide a safe effective treatment for feline coronavirus and feline calicivirus infections in cats.
Collapse
|
13
|
McCabe RA, Receveur JP, Houtz JL, Thomas KL, Benbow ME, Pechal JL, Wallace JR. Characterizing the microbiome of ectoparasitic louse flies feeding on migratory raptors. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234050. [PMID: 32497084 PMCID: PMC7271990 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Louse flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) are obligate ectoparasites that often cause behavioral, pathogenic, and evolutionary effects on their hosts. Interactions between ectoparasites and avian hosts, especially migrating taxa, may influence avian pathogen spread in tropical and temperate ecosystems and affect long-term survival, fitness and reproductive success. The purpose of this study was to characterize the vector-associated microbiome of ectoparasitic louse flies feeding on migrating raptors over the fall migration period. Surveys for louse flies occurred during fall migration (2015-2016) at a banding station in Pennsylvania, United States; flies were collected from seven species of migrating raptors, and we sequenced their microbial (bacteria and archaea) composition using high-throughput targeted amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene (V4 region). All louse flies collected belonged to the same species, Icosta americana. Our analysis revealed no difference in bacterial communities of louse flies retrieved from different avian host species. The louse fly microbiome was dominated by a primary endosymbiont, suggesting that louse flies maintain a core microbial structure despite receiving blood meals from different host species. Thus, our findings highlight the importance of characterizing both beneficial and potentially pathogenic endosymbionts when interpreting how vector-associated microbiomes may impact insect vectors and their avian hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. McCabe
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec, Canada
- * E-mail: (RAM); (JRW)
| | - Joseph P. Receveur
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Houtz
- Department of Biology, Millersville University, Millersville, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kayli L. Thomas
- Department of Biology, Millersville University, Millersville, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - M. Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Pechal
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - John R. Wallace
- Department of Biology, Millersville University, Millersville, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail: (RAM); (JRW)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tizzani P, Fanelli A, Negri E, Silvano F, Menzano A, Molinar Min A, Meneguz PG. Haemoparasites in red-legged partridge ( Alectoris rufa): first record of Haemoproteus sp. in Italy? J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:462-466. [PMID: 32508424 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01211-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
During a health survey in the Province of Alessandria (NW Italy) 267 free ranging red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa; 137 males and 130 females) were captured in 2009 (n = 101), 2010 (n = 130) and 2011 (n = 36). After biometric data and blood samples collection, animals were released on site. Blood samples were used for the preparation of blood smears. A total of 1.5% of smears presented parasites with a light blue finely granular cytoplasm in red blood cells. The parasites were identified, on the basis of their morphology (no molecular identification was possible), as being Haemoproteus sp. juvenile forms. The infestation prevalence was 0.8% in 2010 and 8.3% in 2011. No parasite was observed in 2009. The size of the infested erythrocytes was not altered (P > 0.05) and the nuclear displacement ratio was 0.8 ± 0.2. All the birds were apparently in good health status. To our knowledge this is the first description of Haemoproteus sp. in red-legged partridge, and more in general in birds belonging to Galliformes Order in Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, V. Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Angela Fanelli
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, V. Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Ennio Negri
- Stazzano Civic Museum of Natural History, Stazzano, AL Italy
| | | | | | - Annarita Molinar Min
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, V. Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Pier Giuseppe Meneguz
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, V. Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Thijl Vanstreels RE, Hurtado R, Snyman A, Roberts DG, Parsons NJ, Pistorius PA. Empirical Primaquine Treatment of Avian Babesiosis in Seabirds. J Avian Med Surg 2019; 33:258-264. [PMID: 31893621 DOI: 10.1647/20178-373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Babesia species are tickborne hemoprotozoans. Although experiments have shown that primaquine is highly effective in the treatment of Babesia species infections in mammals, this drug has not been widely used for the treatment of avian babesiosis. Consequently, the treatment of this disease for avian patients has traditionally relied on an empirically established imidocarb treatment. In this study, the authors examined the efficacy of primaquine as a treatment alternative for avian babesiosis (Babesia peircei and Babesia ugwidiensis) in seabirds. Retrospective analysis was performed on the medical records and blood smears of 446 B peircei-positive African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) and 41 B ugwidiensis-positive Cape cormorants (Phalacrocorax capensis) admitted for rehabilitation at the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB, Cape Town, South Africa). Treatment with primaquine (1 mg/kg PO q24h for 10 days) was effective in rapidly and markedly decreasing the proportion of Babesia-positive blood smears in African penguins and Cape cormorants. No regurgitation, loss of appetite, or any other signs after administration of primaquine were observed during the study period. The use of primaquine can be a particularly advantageous treatment alternative for avian babesiosis in circumstances in which it is not possible to determine confidently whether the intraerythrocytic inclusions seen in blood smears correspond to Babesia or Plasmodium or in cases in which there is a coinfection by Babesia and Plasmodium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels
- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, and the Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation (DST/NRF) Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute for African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, PO Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa
| | - Renata Hurtado
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, 7441, South Africa
- Institute of Research and Rehabilitation of Marine Animals (IPRAM), Cariacica, 29140-130, Brazil
| | - Albert Snyman
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, 7441, South Africa
| | - David G Roberts
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, 7441, South Africa
| | - Nola J Parsons
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), Cape Town, 7441, South Africa
| | - Pierre A Pistorius
- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, and the Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation (DST/NRF) Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute for African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, Nelson Mandela University, PO Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Vector-borne hemoparasites are commonly found in avian species. Plasmodium spp., the causative agent of avian malaria, are intraerythrocytic parasites that can cause signs ranging from subclinical infection to severe acute disease. In raptor species, most hemoparasites are associated with subclinical infection and are generally not treated when seen on blood evaluation. This case series reviews five cases of hemoparasite infection in snowy owls ( Bubo scandiacus). These animals were infected with a variety of hemoparasites, including Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leukocytozoon spp. Death of one of these birds due to hemoparasite burden led to a change in the monitoring for and treatment of subclinical hemoparasitic infections in this species. Three subsequently infected snowy owls have been treated with primaquine and chloroquine. The birds that were treated survived infection, and parasite burdens in peripheral blood diminished. Postulated reasons for increased morbidity and mortality associated with hemoparasitic infections in captive snowy owls, as opposed to other raptor species, include stress, concurrent disease, novel pathogen exposure, and elevated environmental temperatures.
Collapse
|
17
|
Vennum CR, Downs CJ, Hayes JP, Houston I, Collopy MW, Woodbridge B, Briggs CW. Early Life Conditions and Immune Defense in Nestling Swainson's Hawks. Physiol Biochem Zool 2019; 92:419-429. [PMID: 31180801 DOI: 10.1086/704364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The quality of perinatal conditions directly influences the physical and immunological development of nestlings, yet it is inherently variable across space and time. Long-term breeding data for a population of Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) in northern California show a continuum of territory occupancy and productivity values of individual territories and nests. Here we explore effects of variation among territories on immune system development. We hypothesize that nestlings benefitting from favorable conditions will invest in stronger immune systems, a trait with long-term benefits. We used two immunological assays, a bactericidal assay and a hemolytic-complement activity assay, with leukocyte differentials (heterophil∶lymphocyte ratio) to evaluate the constitutive innate immune system. We examined whether early brood-rearing conditions (i.e., number of siblings, hatch date, endoparasite prevalence) were associated with immunological development. Linear mixed-effects models indicated a positive relationship between extended territory occupancy history-an index of habitat quality-and nestling immune function during years with poorer reproduction. There was no association during an exceptionally good reproductive year. Hence, at least under some circumstances, nestling environments or territory characteristics may affect immune function of nestlings. Our study contributes to the growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of facultative allocation to immune traits using long-term demographic data of a top avian predator.
Collapse
|
18
|
Pornpanom P, Fernandes Chagas CR, Lertwatcharasarakul P, Kasorndorkbua C, Valkiūnas G, Salakij C. Molecular prevalence and phylogenetic relationship of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites of owls in Thailand: Data from a rehabilitation centre. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2019; 9:248-257. [PMID: 31211047 PMCID: PMC6562296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Owls are nocturnal raptors that are prevalently infected with haemosporidian parasites wordwide. These birds were commonly submitted to the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Kasetsart University, Thailand and were examined using PCR-based methods for the presence of haemosporidian infections of by the genera Plasmodium and Haemoproteus. Blood samples from 167 individual owls belonging to 12 species common in Thailand were collected between September 2012 and February 2018. The overall prevalence of haemosporidians was 34.1%, with Haemoproteus infections (25.1%) being more prevalent than Plasmodium infections (9.0%). The prevalence of both Haemoproteus and Plasmodium parasites was similar in all seasons of the year. Molecular characterization revealed 17 new haemosporidian parasite lineages (11 Haemoproteus and six Plasmodium), with genetic variation among partial cytochrome b sequences ranging from 0.0% to 3.6% in Haemoproteus lineages and 0.2%–8.8% in Plasmodium lineages. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all Haemoproteus lineages detected in owls appeared in one well-supported clade together with other parasites belonging to the Parahaemoproteus subgenus, indicating their close evolutionary relationship and common transmission modality by Culicoides biting midges. This study showes the existence of prominent non-described haemosporidian parasite diversity in Thai owls and provides baseline molecular information for further research on the genetic diversity of owl haemosporidian parasites. New DNA sequence information can be used for the diagnosis of owl infections, which have been often reported during rehabilitation planning. Molecular prevalence of haemosporidian parasites in owls from Thailand was high. Haemoproteus and Plasmodium infections in owls were found in all seasons of Thailand. Seventeen new haemosporidian parasite lineages were isolated from Thai owls. Cytochrome b sequences showed genetic variable of Haemoproteus and Plasmodium in owls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pornchai Pornpanom
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | - Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand.,Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Chaleow Salakij
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Khamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, 73140, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Salakij C, Pornpanom P, Lertwatcharasarakul P, Kasorndorkbua C, Salakij J. Haemoproteus in barn and collared scops owls from Thailand. J Vet Sci 2018; 19:280-289. [PMID: 29032656 PMCID: PMC5879076 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2018.19.2.280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The barn owl (BO) and the collared scops owl (CSO) are common nocturnal raptors throughout Thailand. Blood samples from 23 adult BOs and 14 CSOs were collected and processed for complete blood cell counts and parasite morphological examinations. Two Haemoproteus-positive samples were processed for ultrastructural observation. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for a partial cytochrome b gene (cytb) from Haemoproteus was performed in all samples. Haemoproteus presence detected by light microscopy was lower than that detected by PCR (30.4% and 34.8%, respectively, in BO; and 50.0% and 78.6%, respectively, in CSO). Comparative hematology revealed that Haemoproteus-positive BOs had higher mean cell hemoglobin concentration, total leukocyte, absolute heterophil, basophil, and monocyte counts than Haemoproteus-negative BOs, but no significant differences between Haemoproteus-negative and -positive CSOs. Monocyte ultrastructure analysis revealed a role in the elimination of gametocytes. Morphologically, the Haemoproteus in 3 BOs and 6 CSOs were identified as H. noctuae, while that in 1 CSO was identified as H. syrnii. Phylogenetic analysis indicated the Haemoproteus spp. in 8 BOs and 7 CSOs were not closely related to H. noctuae or H. syrnii, and the cytb of 2 CSOs was that of H. syrnii. These results should be useful for study of Haemoproteus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaleow Salakij
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakorn Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Pornchai Pornpanom
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakorn Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakorn Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10903, Thailand.,Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakorn Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Jarernsak Salakij
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakorn Pathom 73140, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Niedringhaus KD, Fenton HMA, Cleveland CA, Anderson AN, Schwartz D, Alex CE, Rogers KH, Mete A, Yabsley MJ. Case Series: Virulent hemosporidiosis infections in juvenile great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) from Louisiana and California, USA. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 12:49-54. [PMID: 31014809 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A total of eight juvenile great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) were found lethargic and on the ground in spring 2015, 2016, and 2017, including one fledgling from Louisiana, USA and seven nestlings from California, USA. One bird survived to release after rehabilitation; seven birds died or were euthanized due to poor prognosis and were necropsied. Necropsy findings were similar and included general pallor of all tissues, particularly the subcutis and lungs, and enlarged liver and spleen. Histopathology revealed multi-organ necrosis, abundant meronts containing merozoites, and intracytoplasmic pigmented haemosporidian parasites in blood cells in one bird. Leucocytozoon lineages lSTOCC16 and BUVIR06 were identified by polymerase chain reaction and genetic sequencing. The systemic Leucocytozoon infections were likely associated with morbidity and mortality in these owls. A second parasite, Haemoproteus lineage hSTVAR01, was also identified in an owl from Louisiana. This is the first identification of Leucocytozoon lineages that have been associated with mortality in young great horned owls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Niedringhaus
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, 589 D.W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Heather M A Fenton
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, 589 D.W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Christopher A Cleveland
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, 589 D.W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - A Nikki Anderson
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, 2000 Quail Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA.
| | - Diana Schwartz
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Charles E Alex
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Krysta H Rogers
- Wildlife Investigations Laboratory, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 1701 Nimbus Road, Suite D, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670, USA.
| | - Aslι Mete
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, University of California - Davis, 620 W. Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA.
| | - Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, 589 D.W. Brooks Drive, Wildlife Health Building, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, 180 E Green Street, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
|
22
|
Schoenle LA, Kernbach M, Haussmann MF, Bonier F, Moore IT. An experimental test of the physiological consequences of avian malaria infection. J Anim Ecol 2017; 86:1483-1496. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Meredith Kernbach
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
- Department of Integrative Biology University of South Florida Tampa FL USA
| | | | - Frances Bonier
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
- Biology Department Queen's University Kingston ON Canada
| | - Ignacio T. Moore
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Tech Blacksburg VA USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
MacColl E, Vanesky K, Buck JA, Dudek BM, Eagles-Smith CA, Heath JA, Herring G, Vennum C, Downs CJ. Correlates of immune defenses in golden eagle nestlings. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2017; 327:243-253. [PMID: 29356454 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
An individual's investment in constitutive immune defenses depends on both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. We examined how Leucocytozoon parasite presence, body condition (scaled mass), heterophil-to-lymphocyte (H:L) ratio, sex, and age affected immune defenses in golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) nestlings from three regions: California, Oregon, and Idaho. We quantified hemolytic-complement activity and bacterial killing ability, two measures of constitutive immunity. Body condition and age did not affect immune defenses. However, eagles with lower H:L ratios had lower complement activity, corroborating other findings that animals in better condition sometimes invest less in constitutive immunity. In addition, eagles with Leucocytozoon infections had higher concentrations of circulating complement proteins but not elevated opsonizing proteins for all microbes, and eagles from Oregon had significantly higher constitutive immunity than those from California or Idaho. We posit that Oregon eagles might have elevated immune defenses because they are exposed to more endoparasites than eagles from California or Idaho, and our results confirmed that the OR region has the highest rate of Leucocytozoon infections. Our study examined immune function in a free-living, long-lived raptor species, whereas most avian ecoimmunological research focuses on passerines. Thus, our research informs a broad perspective regarding the evolutionary and environmental pressures on immune function in birds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kris Vanesky
- Academy for the Environment, University of Nevada Reno, NV, USA
| | - Jeremy A Buck
- US Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Benjamin M Dudek
- Department of Biological Sciences and Raptor Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID, USA
| | - Collin A Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, OR
| | - Julie A Heath
- Department of Biological Sciences and Raptor Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID, USA
| | - Garth Herring
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, OR
| | - Chris Vennum
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
A retrospective survey into the presence of Plasmodium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in archived tissue samples from New Zealand raptors: New Zealand falcons (Falco novaeseelandiae), Australasian harriers (Circus approximans) and moreporks (Ninox novaeseelandiae). Parasitol Res 2017; 116:2283-2289. [PMID: 28660290 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5536-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Human colonisation of New Zealand has resulted in the introduction of emerging diseases, such as avian malaria and toxoplasmosis, which arrived with their exotic avian and mammalian hosts. Plasmodium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii have a wide host range, and several species of endemic New Zealand birds have developed a fatal disease following infection with either pathogen. However, no reports of either toxoplasmosis or avian malaria in New Zealand raptors, namely, the New Zealand falcons (Falco novaeseelandiae), Australasian harriers (Circus approximans) and moreporks (Ninox novaeseelandiae) exist in the literature. Therefore, this study was designed to determine if these two pathogens are present in these raptors through a retrospective analysis of archived tissue samples. Detection and isolate identification of these pathogens was determined using established histological and molecular techniques. All three species of New Zealand raptors tested positive for the presence of Plasmodium spp. (10/117; 8.5%) and an atypical genotype of T. gondii (9/117; 7.7%). Plasmodium lineages identified include P. elongatum GRW6, P. relictum SGS1, P. relictum PADOM02 and Plasmodium sp. LINN1. Two Australasian harriers and one morepork tested positive for the presence of both Plasmodium spp. and T. gondii. However, the pathogenicity of these organisms to the raptors is unclear as none of the tissues showed histological evidence of clinical disease associated with Plasmodium spp. and T. gondii infections. Thus, these results demonstrate for the first time that these two potential pathogens are present in New Zealand's raptors; however, further research is required to determine the prevalence and pathogenicity of these organisms among the living populations of these birds in the country.
Collapse
|
25
|
Grilo ML, Vanstreels RET, Wallace R, García-Párraga D, Braga ÉM, Chitty J, Catão-Dias JL, Madeira de Carvalho LM. Malaria in penguins - current perceptions. Avian Pathol 2017; 45:393-407. [PMID: 27009571 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2016.1149145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Avian malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by protozoans of the genus Plasmodium, and it is considered one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in captive penguins, both in zoological gardens and rehabilitation centres. Penguins are known to be highly susceptible to this disease, and outbreaks have been associated with mortality as high as 50-80% of affected captive populations within a few weeks. The disease has also been reported in wild penguin populations, however, its impacts on the health and fitness of penguins in the wild is not clear. This review provides an overview of the aetiology, life cycle and epidemiology of avian malaria, and provides details on the strategies that can be employed for the diagnostic, treatment and prevention of this disease in captive penguins, discussing possible directions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Grilo
- a Interdisciplinary Centre of Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal.,b Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research , University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation , Buesum , Germany
| | - R E T Vanstreels
- c Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia , Universidade de São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - R Wallace
- d Milwaukee County Zoo , Milwaukee , WI , USA
| | - D García-Párraga
- e Veterinary Services , Oceanografic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias , Valencia , Spain
| | - É M Braga
- f Departamento de Parasitologia , Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil
| | | | - J L Catão-Dias
- c Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia , Universidade de São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - L M Madeira de Carvalho
- a Interdisciplinary Centre of Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Body Mass, Wing Length, and Condition of Wintering Ducks Relative to Hematozoa Infection. JOURNAL OF FISH AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 2017. [DOI: 10.3996/082016-jfwm-063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Waterfowl managers lack information regarding factors that may be reducing the positive response of waterfowl body condition to habitat improvements. Protozoan blood parasites (i.e., hematozoa) are commonly found in birds and have been related to reduced body mass, wing length, and body condition. We studied relationships between 12 measures of hematozoa infection and body mass, wing length, and body mass divided by wing length (i.e., body condition index) of the five most common duck species (northern pintail [Anas acuta], mallard [A. platyrhynchos], green-winged teal [A. crecca], American wigeon [A. americana], northern shoveler [A. clypeata]) wintering in the Central Valley of California during October 2006–January 2007. After accounting for variation due to species, age–sex cohort, Central Valley region, and month, wing length, body mass, and body condition index were found to be negatively related to infection by Leucocytozoon and by “any hematozoa” but not related to infection by only Plasmodium or Haemoproteus, or coinfections of greater than one genus or parasite haplotype (albeit few ducks had Plasmodium or Haemoproteus infection or coinfections). Evidence of a negative relationship with infection was stronger for body mass and body condition index than for wing length and indicated that the relationships varied among species, age–sex cohorts, regions, and months. Compared with uninfected ducks, hematozoa-infected duck body mass, wing length, and body condition index was −1.63% (85% CI = −2.79% to −0.47%), −0.12% (−0.41% to 0.17%), and −1.38% (−2.49% to −0.26%), respectively. Although seemingly small, the −1.63% difference in body mass represents a large percentage (e.g., 38% for northern pintail) of the observed increase in wintering duck body mass associated with Central Valley habitat improvements. Because infection prevalence and relationship to body condition might change over time because of climate or other factors, tracking hematozoa infection prevalence might be important to inform and accurately assess the effect of conservation programs designed to improve waterfowl body condition.
Collapse
|
27
|
Beaufrère H, Laniesse D, Stickings P, Tierney R, Sesardic T, Slavic D, Compo N, Smith DA. Generalized Tetanus in a Gyrfalcon ( Falco rusticolus ) with Pododermatitis. Avian Dis 2016; 60:850-855. [PMID: 27902906 DOI: 10.1637/11408-031116-case] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A 2-yr-old male gyrfalcon ( Falco rusticolus ) was presented for severe and generalized muscle spasticity and pododermatitis. The falcon had been treated for pododermatitis over the previous 4 mo. Muscle rigidity and spasms involved the entire bird but were more severe on the right leg. The bird was also tachypneic and hyperthermic at 45 C. While the plantar pododermatitis lesions had healed, there was still a small abscess on the lateral aspect of the right foot. Clinical signs were consistent with tetanus. Several bacteria were isolated from the abscess including Clostridium tetani . The isolate was confirmed to be toxigenic by PCR. Attempts to detect tetanus toxin in the bird's plasma were unsuccessful. The abscess was debrided. The gyrfalcon received equine tetanus antitoxin, intravenous metronidazole, methocarbamol, midazolam, a constant-rate infusion of Fentanyl, active cooling, and supportive care. Inhalant anesthesia with isoflurane was the only treatment that would lower the body temperature and reduce the clinical signs. The gyrfalcon died a few hours after admission. The characteristic clinical signs and isolation of toxigenic C. tetani from a wound were strong supportive evidence for a diagnosis of tetanus. This case constitutes the first reported natural occurrence of tetanus in an avian species. Further information is needed to determine whether gyrfalcons are more susceptible to tetanus than are other avian species and whether pododermatitis lesions may be risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Beaufrère
- A The Health Sciences Centre, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, N1G2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Delphine Laniesse
- B Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, N1G2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Stickings
- C National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Tierney
- C National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Thea Sesardic
- C National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Durda Slavic
- D Animal Health Laboratory, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, N1G2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Nicole Compo
- B Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, N1G2W1, ON, Canada
| | - Dale A Smith
- B Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, N1G2W1, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ciloglu A, Yildirim A, Duzlu O, Onder Z, Dogan Z, Inci A. Investigation of avian haemosporidian parasites from raptor birds in Turkey, with molecular characterisation and microscopic confirmation. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2016; 63. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2016.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
|
29
|
Freund D, Wheeler SS, Townsend AK, Boyce WM, Ernest HB, Cicero C, Sehgal RNM. Genetic sequence data reveals widespread sharing of Leucocytozoon lineages in corvids. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:3557-65. [PMID: 27189064 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5121-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Leucocytozoon, a widespread hemosporidian blood parasite that infects a broad group of avian families, has been studied in corvids (family: Corvidae) for over a century. Current taxonomic classification indicates that Leucocytozoon sakharoffi infects crows and related Corvus spp., while Leucocytozoon berestneffi infects magpies (Pica spp.) and blue jays (Cyanocitta sp.). This intrafamily host specificity was based on the experimental transmissibility of the parasites, as well as slight differences in their morphology and life cycle development. Genetic sequence data from Leucocytozoon spp. infecting corvids is scarce, and until the present study, sequence data has not been analyzed to confirm the current taxonomic distinctions. Here, we predict the phylogenetic relationships of Leucocytozoon cytochrome b lineages recovered from infected American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), yellow-billed magpies (Pica nuttalli), and Steller's jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) to explore the host specificity pattern of L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed a single large clade containing nearly every lineage recovered from the three host species, while showing no evidence of the expected distinction between L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi. In addition, five of the detected lineages were recovered from both crows and magpies. This absence of the previously described host specificity in corvid Leucocytozoon spp. suggests that L. sakharoffi and L. berestneffi be reexamined from a taxonomic perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dave Freund
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94132, USA.
| | - Sarah S Wheeler
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Andrea K Townsend
- Department of Biology, Hamilton College, 198 College Hill Rd., Clinton, NY, 13323, USA
| | - Walter M Boyce
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Holly B Ernest
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, 1000 E. University Avenue, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA
| | - Carla Cicero
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, 3101 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ravinder N M Sehgal
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94132, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
What Is Your Diagnosis? Leucocytozoonosis. J Avian Med Surg 2016; 29:361-6. [PMID: 26771327 DOI: 10.1647/2014-060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
31
|
Haemosporidian infections in the Tengmalm's Owl (Aegolius funereus) and potential insect vectors of their transmission. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:291-8. [PMID: 26365667 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4745-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Sedentary bird species are suitable model hosts for identifying potential vectors of avian blood parasites. We studied haemosporidian infections in the Tengmalm's Owl (Aegolius funereus) in the Ore Mountains of the Czech Republic using molecular detection methods. Sex of owl nestlings was scored using molecular sexing based on fragment analysis of PCR-amplified CHD1 introns. Observed infection prevalences in nestlings and adult owls were 51 and 86 %, respectively. Five parasite lineages were detected. Most of the infections comprised the Leucocytozoon AEFUN02 and STOCC06 lineages that probably refer to distinct Leucocytozoon species. Other lineages were detected only sporadically. Mixed infections were found in 49 % of samples. The main factor affecting the probability of infection was host age. No effect of individual sex on infection probability was evidenced. The youngest infected nestling was 12 days old. High parasite prevalence in the Tengmalm's Owl nestlings suggests that insect vectors must enter nest boxes to transmit parasites before fledging. Hence, we placed sticky insect traps into modified nest boxes, collected potential insect vectors, and examined them for the presence of haemosporidian parasites using molecular detection. We trapped 201 insects which were determined as biting midges from the Culicoides genus and two black fly species, Simulium (Nevermannia) vernum and Simulium (Eusimulium) angustipes. Six haemosporidian lineages were detected in the potential insect vectors, among which the Leucocytozoon lineage BT2 was common to the Tengmalm's Owl and the trapped insects. However, we have not detected the most frequently encountered Tengmalm's Owl Leucocytozoon lineages AEFUN02 and STOCC06 in insects.
Collapse
|
32
|
Do malaria parasites manipulate the escape behaviour of their avian hosts? An experimental study. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:4493-501. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4693-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
33
|
Ammersbach M, Beaufrère H, Gionet Rollick A, Tully T. Laboratory blood analysis in Strigiformes-Part I: hematologic reference intervals and agreement between manual blood cell counting techniques. Vet Clin Pathol 2015; 44:94-108. [PMID: 25627556 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While hematologic reference intervals (RI) are available for multiple raptorial species of the order Accipitriformes and Falconiformes, there is a lack of valuable hematologic information in Strigiformes that can be used for diagnostic and health monitoring purposes. OBJECTIVES The objective was to report RI in Strigiformes for hematologic variables and to assess agreement between manual cell counting techniques. METHODS A multi-center prospective study was designed to assess hematologic RI and blood cell morphology in owl species. Samples were collected from individuals representing 13 Strigiformes species, including Great Horned Owl, Snowy Owl, Eurasian Eagle Owl, Barred Owl, Great Gray Owl, Ural Owl, Northern Saw-Whet Owls, Northern Hawk Owl, Spectacled Owl, Barn Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Long-Eared Owl, and Short-Eared Owl. Red blood cell count was determined manually using a hemocytometer. White blood cell count was determined using 3 manual counting techniques: (1) phloxine B technique, (2) Natt and Herrick technique, and (3) estimation from the smear. Differential counts and blood cell morphology were determined on smears. Reference intervals were determined and agreement between methods was calculated. RESULTS Important species-specific differences were observed in blood cell counts and granulocyte morphology. Differences in WBC count between species did not appear to be predictable based on phylogenetic relationships. Overall, most boreal owl species exhibited a lower WBC count than other species. Important disagreements were found between different manual WBC counting techniques. CONCLUSIONS Disagreements observed between manual counting techniques suggest that technique-specific RI should be used in Strigiformes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Ammersbach
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tostes R, Vashist U, Scopel KK, Massard CL, Daemon E, D'Agosto M. Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. infection in birds of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest detected by microscopy and polymerase chain reaction. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2015000100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years haemosporidian infection by protozoa of the genus Plasmodium and Haemoproteus, has been considered one of the most important factors related to the extinction and/or population decline of several species of birds worldwide. In Brazil, despite the large avian biodiversity, few studies have been designed to detect this infection, especially among wild birds in captivity. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. infection in wild birds in captivity in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil using microscopy and the polymerase chain reaction. Blood samples of 119 different species of birds kept in captivity at IBAMA during the period of July 2011 to July 2012 were collected. The parasite density was determined based only on readings of blood smears by light microscopy. The mean prevalence of Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. infection obtained through the microscopic examination of blood smears and PCR were similar (83.19% and 81.3%, respectively), with Caracara plancus and Saltator similis being the most parasitized. The mean parasitemia determined by the microscopic counting of evolutionary forms of Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. was 1.51%. The results obtained from this study reinforce the importance of the handling of captive birds, especially when they will be reintroduced into the wild.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Tostes
- Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Erik Daemon
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Lewicki KE, Huyvaert KP, Piaggio AJ, Diller LV, Franklin AB. Effects of barred owl (Strix varia) range expansion on Haemoproteus parasite assemblage dynamics and transmission in barred and northern spotted owls (Strix occidentalis caurina). Biol Invasions 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-014-0828-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
36
|
Vanstreels RET, Kolesnikovas CKM, Sandri S, Silveira P, Belo NO, Ferreira Junior FC, Epiphanio S, Steindel M, Braga ÉM, Catão-Dias JL. Outbreak of avian malaria associated to multiple species of Plasmodium in magellanic penguins undergoing rehabilitation in southern Brazil. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94994. [PMID: 24736326 PMCID: PMC3988135 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Plasmodium spp. Avian plasmodia are recognized conservation-threatening pathogens due to their potential to cause severe epizootics when introduced to bird populations with which they did not co-evolve. Penguins are considered particularly susceptible, as outbreaks in captive populations will often lead to high morbidity and rapid mortality. We used a multidisciplinary approach to investigate an outbreak of avian malaria in 28 Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) at a rehabilitation center during summer 2009 in Florianópolis, Brazil. Hemosporidian infections were identified by microscopic and molecular characterization in 64% (18/28) of the penguins, including Plasmodium (Haemamoeba) tejerai, Plasmodium (Huffia) elongatum, a Plasmodium (Haemamoeba) sp. lineage closely related to Plasmodium cathemerium, and a Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) sp. lineage closely related to Haemoproteus syrnii. P. tejerai played a predominant role in the studied outbreak and was identified in 72% (13/18) of the hemosporidian-infected penguins, and in 89% (8/9) of the penguins that died, suggesting that this is a highly pathogenic parasite for penguins; a detailed description of tissue meronts and lesions is provided. Mixed infections were identified in three penguins, and involved P. elongatum and either P. tejerai or P. (Haemamoeba) sp. that were compatible with P. tejerai but could not be confirmed. In total, 32% (9/28) penguins died over the course of 16 days despite oral treatment with chloroquine followed by sulfadiazine-trimethoprim. Hemosporidian infections were considered likely to have occurred during rehabilitation, probably from mosquitoes infected while feeding on local native birds, whereas penguin-mosquito-penguin transmission may have played a role in later stages of the outbreak. Considering the seasonality of the infection, rehabilitation centers would benefit from narrowing their efforts to prevent avian malaria outbreaks to the penguins that are maintained throughout summer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Sandro Sandri
- Associação R3 Animal, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Silveira
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Nayara O. Belo
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Francisco C. Ferreira Junior
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Epiphanio
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mário Steindel
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Érika M. Braga
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Blood parasites in noddies and boobies from Brazilian offshore islands - differences between species and influence of nesting habitat. Parasitology 2013; 141:399-410. [PMID: 24229724 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182013001649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Seabirds are often free from blood parasites, and a recent review suggested that phylogenetic, ecological and life-history parameters can determine the prevalence of blood parasites in seabirds. However, there is a lack of data available from many seabird groups, and a larger database is needed to understand prevalence patterns of blood parasites. We used a molecular screening approach to detect parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon and Babesia in five species of two genera of seabirds that breed on Atlantic Ocean islands off Brazil. The observed patterns differed between the two bird genera. Like other Laridae, brown noddy, Anous stolidus adults were infected with Haemoproteus with low prevalence. Masked boobies, Sula dactylatra and brown boobies, Sula leucogaster were infected with Babesia. Of the latter, mainly juveniles were infected. In all species, intensity of infection (i.e. number of infected erythrocytes) was so low that parasites remained undetected in blood smears. This may explain the absence of major effects on the body condition of birds, although infected juvenile masked boobies were lighter than juveniles that were not infected with Babesia. Two tree-nesting species; black noddy, Anous minutus and red-footed booby, Sula sula did not have blood parasites, suggesting that tree-nesting may reduce the exposure to arthropod vectors compared with ground nesting in these species.
Collapse
|
38
|
|
39
|
Andery DDA, Ferreira Junior FC, Araújo AVD, Vilela DADR, Marques MVR, Marin SY, Horta RS, Ortiz MC, Resende JSD, Martins NRDS. Health assessment of raptors in triage in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s1516-635x2013000300012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - DA da R Vilela
- Instituto Brasileiro de Meio Ambiente e Recursos Naturais Renováveis, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Motta ROC, Romero Marques MV, Ferreira Junior FC, Andery DDA, Horta RS, Peixoto RB, Lacorte GA, Moreira PDA, Paes Leme FDO, Melo MM, Martins NRDS, Braga ÉM. Does haemosporidian infection affect hematological and biochemical profiles of the endangered Black-fronted piping-guan (Aburria jacutinga)? PeerJ 2013; 1:e45. [PMID: 23638382 PMCID: PMC3628922 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases can cause deleterious effects on bird species, leading to population decline and extinction. Haemosporidia can be recognized by their negative effects on host fitness, including reproductive success and immune responses. In captivity, outbreaks of haemosporidian infection have been observed in birds in zoos and aviaries. The endemic Brazilian Atlantic rainforest species Aburria jacutinga is one of the most endangered species in the Cracidae family, and wild populations of this species are currently found mainly in conservation areas in only two Brazilian states. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of avian haemosporidia on hematological and biochemical parameters in two captive populations of A. jacutinga. Forty-two animals were assessed, and the haemosporidian prevalence was similar for males and females. The occurrence of haemosporidian infection in captive A. jacutinga observed in this study was similar to results found in other captive and wild birds in Brazil. We found three different lineages of haemosporidia. Two lineages were identified as Plasmodium sp., one of which was previously detected in Europe and Asia, and the other is a new lineage closely related to P. gallinaceum. A new third lineage was identified as Haemoproteus sp. We found no significant differences in hematological and biochemical values between infected and non-infected birds, and the haemosporidian lineage did not seem to have an impact on the clinical and physiological parameters of A. jacutinga. This is the first report on an evaluation of natural haemosporidian infections diagnosed by microscopic and molecular methods in A. jacutinga by hematology, blood biochemistry, and serum protein values. Determining physiological parameters, occurrence and an estimation of the impact of haemosporidia in endangered avian species may contribute to the management of species rehabilitation and conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Otávio Cançado Motta
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcus Vinícius Romero Marques
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Francisco Carlos Ferreira Junior
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Danielle de Assis Andery
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Santos Horta
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Renata Barbosa Peixoto
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Augusto Lacorte
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Patrícia de Abreu Moreira
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabíola de Oliveira Paes Leme
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marília Martins Melo
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Nelson Rodrigo da Silva Martins
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Érika Martins Braga
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
High prevalence of Leucocytozoon spp. in the endangered yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) in the sub-Antarctic regions of New Zealand. Parasitology 2013; 140:672-82. [PMID: 23361092 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182012002089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Yellow-eyed penguins (YEPs) have suffered major population declines over the past 30 years, with no single cause established. Leucocytozoon was first identified in yellow-eyed penguins in 2005. During the 2008/09 breeding season, a high mortality was seen in both mainland yellow-eyed penguins as well as those on Enderby Island of the Auckland Islands archipelago. A high overall prevalence of Leucocytozoon spp. in association with a high incidence of chick mortality was observed during this period on Enderby Island. One chick had histological evidence of leucocytozoonosis with megaloschizonts in multiple organs throughout its body. In addition, a high prevalence (73·7%) of Leucocytozoon was observed by PCR in the blood of adult Enderby yellow-eyed penguins taken during the 2006/07 season. These findings were different from the low prevalence detected by PCR on the coast of the South Island (11%) during the 2008/2009 breeding session and earlier on Campbell Island (21%) during the 2006/2007 breeding session. The Leucocytozoon spp. sequences detected lead us to conclude that the Leucocytozoon parasite is common in yellow-eyed penguins and has a higher prevalence in penguins from Enderby Island than those from Campbell Island and the mainland of New Zealand. The Enderby Island yellow-eyed penguins are infected with a Leucocytozoon spp. that is genetically distinct from that found in other yellow-eyed penguin populations. The role of Leucocytozoon in the high levels of chick mortality in the yellow-eyed penguins remains unclear.
Collapse
|
42
|
LaPointe DA, Atkinson CT, Samuel MD. Ecology and conservation biology of avian malaria. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2012; 1249:211-26. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06431.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
43
|
Pacheco MA, Escalante AA, Garner MM, Bradley GA, Aguilar RF. Haemosporidian infection in captive masked bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), an endangered subspecies of the northern bobwhite quail. Vet Parasitol 2011; 182:113-20. [PMID: 21726940 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2011] [Revised: 06/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The avian haemosporidian parasites (phylum Apicomplexa) are taxonomically diverse and cosmopolitan in distribution; infecting most bird families. Sources of concern are reports of clinical haemosporidian infections in birds kept as part of zoo and aviary collections. Recently, severe and acute mortality episodes have been reported in masked bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), an endangered subspecies from the American Southwest. Two hundred and five eggs of the captive flock held in Arivaca, Arizona, were hatched at a zoo in the American Southwest. Thirty-four sub-adult or adult animals had lesions associated with tissue phases of haemoparasites, especially vasculitis, ventricular leiomyositis and ulcerative pododermatitis. Molecular techniques applied to blood collected from the zoo's last twelve remaining animals resulted in the detection of a Plasmodium juxtanucleare-like and Haemoproteus sp. parasites. A Raven (Corvus corax), in a contiguous exhibit, was positive for the same P. juxtanucleare-like parasite, but remained asymptomatic for three years following detection. These findings indicate that other birds in the exhibit within the zoo premises could act as reservoirs. We conclude that haemosporidian infections could be a factor in the demise of the captive masked bobwhite quails housed at the zoo. We suggest that active surveillance for haemoporidian parasites should be incorporated as a precaution to ex situ conservation efforts of susceptible endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Andreína Pacheco
- Center for Evolutionary Medicine and Informatics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-4501, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Karell P, Ahola K, Karstinen T, Kolunen H, Siitari H, Brommer JE. Blood parasites mediate morph-specific maintenance costs in a colour polymorphic wild bird. J Evol Biol 2011; 24:1783-92. [PMID: 21599778 DOI: 10.1111/j.1420-9101.2011.02308.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Parasites can mediate profound negative effects on host fitness. Colour polymorphism has been suggested to covary genetically with intrinsic physiological properties. Tawny owl colour polymorphism is highly heritable with two main morphs, grey and brown. We show that experimental medication acts to reduce blood parasites and that medicated grey females maintain body mass during breeding, whereas medicated brown females decline in body mass similar to control females of both morphs. We find no effect of medication on general immunoglobulin levels, antigen-specific humoral response or H/L ratio. In the descriptive data, both morphs have similar blood parasite infection rates, but blood parasite infection is associated with decreased body mass in brown but not in grey females. We conclude that blood parasite infection primarily has somatic costs, which differ between the two highly heritable tawny owl colour morphs with more pronounced costs in the grey (little pigmented) morph than in the brown (heavily pigmented) morph. Because our descriptive results imply the opposite pattern, our findings highlight the need of experimental manipulation when studying heritable variation in hosts' response to parasitism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Karell
- Bird Ecology Unit, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Quillfeldt P, Martínez J, Hennicke J, Ludynia K, Gladbach A, Masello JF, Riou S, Merino S. Hemosporidian blood parasites in seabirds--a comparative genetic study of species from Antarctic to tropical habitats. Naturwissenschaften 2010; 97:809-17. [PMID: 20652673 PMCID: PMC2929341 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-010-0698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Whereas some bird species are heavily affected by blood parasites in the wild, others reportedly are not. Seabirds, in particular, are often free from blood parasites, even in the presence of potential vectors. By means of polymerase chain reaction, we amplified a DNA fragment from the cytochrome b gene to detect parasites of the genera Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon, and Haemoproteus in 14 seabird species, ranging from Antarctica to the tropical Indian Ocean. We did not detect parasites in 11 of these species, including one Antarctic, four subantarctic, two temperate, and four tropical species. On the other hand, two subantarctic species, thin-billed prions Pachyptila belcheri and dolphin gulls Larus scoresbii, were found infected. One of 28 thin-billed prions had a Plasmodium infection whose DNA sequence was identical to lineage P22 of Plasmodium relictum, and one of 20 dolphin gulls was infected with a Haemoproteus lineage which appears phylogenetically clustered with parasites species isolated from passeriform birds such as Haemoproteus lanii, Haemoproteus magnus, Haemoproteus fringillae, Haemoproteus sylvae, Haemoproteus payevskyi, and Haemoproteus belopolskyi. In addition, we found a high parasite prevalence in a single tropical species, the Christmas Island frigatebird Fregata andrewsi, where 56% of sampled adults were infected with Haemoproteus. The latter formed a monophyletic group that includes a Haemoproteus line from Eastern Asian black-tailed gulls Larus crassirostris. Our results are in agreement with those showing that (a) seabirds are poor in hemosporidians and (b) latitude could be a determining factor to predict the presence of hemosporidians in birds. However, further studies should explore the relative importance of extrinsic and intrinsic factors on parasite prevalence, in particular using phylogenetically controlled comparative analyses, systematic sampling and screening of vectors, and within-species comparisons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Quillfeldt
- Max-Planck-Institut für Ornithologie, Vogelwarte Radolfzell, Schlossallee 2, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
King JC, Dubay SA, Huspeni TC, VanLanen AR, Gerhold RW. Parasite Infections in Nestling Red-Shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus) in Northeast Wisconsin. J Parasitol 2010; 96:535-40. [DOI: 10.1645/ge-2130.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
|
47
|
Willette M, Ponder J, Cruz-Martinez L, Arent L, Bueno Padilla I, de Francisco ON, Redig P. Management of select bacterial and parasitic conditions of raptors. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2009; 12:491-517, Table of Contents. [PMID: 19732706 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2009.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Raptors are susceptible to a broad array of established and emerging bacterial and parasitic diseases, including babesiosis, chlamydiosis, clostridiosis, coccidiosis, cryptosporidiosis, malaria, mycobacteriosis, pasteurellosis, salmonellosis, trichomoniasis, and pododermatitis. Many of these conditions are opportunistic and can be easily managed or averted with proper preventive measures related to captive management, husbandry and diet, and veterinary care. Once infected, treatment must be prompt, appropriate, and judicious. This article examines the significance, diagnosis, management, and prevention of select bacterial and parasitic pathogens of raptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Willette
- The Raptor Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Chakarov N, Boerner M, Krüger O. Fitness in common buzzards at the cross-point of opposite melanin-parasite interactions. Funct Ecol 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2435.2008.01460.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
49
|
PCR-based detection and genotyping of haematozoa (Protozoa) parasitizing eagle owls, Bubo bubo. Parasitol Res 2008; 104:467-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1207-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Accepted: 09/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
50
|
Abstract
Hematology is an essential component of veterinary practice. The interpretation of avian blood cells provides many challenges. Practitioners must be able to recognize normal morphology and function of cells to interpret changes in those cells. This article describes the normal morphology of avian erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes. Changes observed in erythrocytes and leukocytes during disease and major differential diagnoses are discussed. A brief overview of avian blood parasites is also presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth B Mitchell
- Companion Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California-Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|