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Celik F, Gunyakti Kilinc S, Ceribasi S, Kesik HK, Simsek S. First Histopathological and Molecular Characterization of Giant Thorny-headed Worm, Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Pallas, 1781) (Acanthocephala: Oligacanthorhynchidae) in Wild Boars, Sus scrofa Linnaeus, 1758 from Eastern Türkiye. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1640-1647. [PMID: 39164554 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00873-4] [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: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Pallas, 1781) is a zoonotic acanthocephalan that parasitizes the small intestine of wild boars. It is a pathogenic that causes economic losses, and poses a public health threat due to increased emergence. PURPOSE The aims of this study is describes histopathologically the damage caused by M. hirudinaceus in the small intestine of wild boar Sus scrofa Linnaeus, 1758, and molecularly characterize this parasite (sequences, haplotypes, phylogeny) for the first time in Elazig city, Türkiye. RESULTS A high prevalence of infection was obtained. Upon separating the worms, it was discovered that there were ulcers resembling craters in the center, of the small intestine mucosa, surrounded by edema. The intestine wall where the parasite attached was damaged, with the villi epithelium and lamina propria in the mucosa being destroyed. The genomic DNA was isolated from all M. hirudinaceus samples, and PCR amplified the 489 bp gene fragments were sequenced and confirmed that all 21 sequences were M. hirudinaceus. The haplotype analysis of the sequences revealed the presence of a central star-shaped haplotype, in addition to four other haplotypes. CONCLUSION After conducting sequence analysis, the genetic differences between the M. hirudinaceus sequences obtained in this study and those reported from Europe and Japan suggest that this parasite is endemic to Türkiye's local wild boar population. Also, four haplotypes were identified, distinguishing it from other haplotypes by 1-5 mutation steps. It is essential to consider the worm's sequences and the formation of haplotypes, since these intrinsic characteristics may impact in the epidemiology and pathology of the worm in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Figen Celik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig, 23119, Türkiye
| | - Seyma Gunyakti Kilinc
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bingol University, Bingol, Türkiye
| | - Songul Ceribasi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig, 23119, Türkiye
| | - Harun Kaya Kesik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bingol University, Bingol, Türkiye
| | - Sami Simsek
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig, 23119, Türkiye.
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Giglio RM, Bowden CF, Brook RK, Piaggio AJ, Smyser TJ. Characterizing feral swine movement across the contiguous United States using neural networks and genetic data. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17489. [PMID: 39148259 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Globalization has led to the frequent movement of species out of their native habitat. Some of these species become highly invasive and capable of profoundly altering invaded ecosystems. Feral swine (Sus scrofa × domesticus) are recognized as being among the most destructive invasive species, with populations established on all continents except Antarctica. Within the United States (US), feral swine are responsible for extensive crop damage, the destruction of native ecosystems, and the spread of disease. Purposeful human-mediated movement of feral swine has contributed to their rapid range expansion over the past 30 years. Patterns of deliberate introduction of feral swine have not been well described as populations may be established or augmented through small, undocumented releases. By leveraging an extensive genomic database of 18,789 samples genotyped at 35,141 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we used deep neural networks to identify translocated feral swine across the contiguous US. We classified 20% (3364/16,774) of sampled animals as having been translocated and described general patterns of translocation using measures of centrality in a network analysis. These findings unveil extensive movement of feral swine well beyond their dispersal capabilities, including individuals with predicted origins >1000 km away from their sampling locations. Our study provides insight into the patterns of human-mediated movement of feral swine across the US and from Canada to the northern areas of the US. Further, our study validates the use of neural networks for studying the spread of invasive species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael M Giglio
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Courtney F Bowden
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Ryan K Brook
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Antoinette J Piaggio
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Timothy J Smyser
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Buglione M, Rivieccio E, Aceto S, Paturzo V, Biondi C, Fulgione D. The Domestication of Wild Boar Could Result in a Relaxed Selection for Maintaining Olfactory Capacity. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:1045. [PMID: 39202786 PMCID: PMC11355481 DOI: 10.3390/life14081045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Domesticated animals are artificially selected to exhibit desirable traits, however not all traits of domesticated animals are the result of deliberate selection. Loss of olfactory capacity in the domesticated pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) is one example. We used whole transcriptome analysis (RNA-Seq) to compare patterns of gene expression in the olfactory mucosa of the pig and two subspecies of wild boar (Sus scrofa), and investigate candidate genes that could be responsible for the loss of olfactory capacity. We identified hundreds of genes with reductions in transcript abundance in pig relative to wild boar as well as differences between the two subspecies of wild boar. These differences were detected mainly in genes involved in the formation and motility of villi, cilia and microtubules, functions associated with olfaction. In addition, differences were found in the abundances of transcripts of genes related to immune defenses, with the highest levels in continental wild boar subspecies. Overall, the loss of olfactory capacity in pigs appears to have been accompanied by reductions in the expression of candidate genes for olfaction. These changes could have resulted from unintentional selection for reduced olfactory capacity, relaxed selection for maintaining olfactory capacity, pleiotropic effects of genes under selection, or other non-selective processes. Our findings could be a cornerstone for future researches on wild boars, pigs, feral populations, and their evolutionary trajectories, aimed to provide tools to better calibrate species management as well as guidelines for breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Buglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.B.); (S.A.); (V.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Eleonora Rivieccio
- Department of Humanities Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Serena Aceto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.B.); (S.A.); (V.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Vincenzo Paturzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.B.); (S.A.); (V.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Carla Biondi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.B.); (S.A.); (V.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Domenico Fulgione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.B.); (S.A.); (V.P.); (C.B.)
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Liu J, Zhao S, Tan L, Wang J, Song X, Zhang S, Chen F, Xu A. Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Based on Damage, Distribution, and Activity: A Case Study of Wild Boar in Zhejiang, Eastern China. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1639. [PMID: 38891686 PMCID: PMC11171170 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Human-wildlife conflicts are becoming increasingly common worldwide and are a challenge to biodiversity management. Compared with compensatory management, which often focuses on solving emergency conflicts, mitigation management allows decision-makers to better understand where the damage is distributed, how the species are distributed and when the species conduct their activity. Here, we integrated data collected from 90 districts/counties' damage surveys and 1271 camera traps to understand the damage status, abundance, density and activity rhythms of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Zhejiang, Eastern China, from January 2019 to August 2023. We found that (1) wild boar-human conflicts were mainly distributed in the northwest and southwest mountainous regions of Zhejiang Province; (2) the total abundance of wild boar was 115,156 ± 24,072 individuals, indicating a growing trend over the past decade and a higher density in the western and southern regions; (3) wild boar exhibited different activity patterns across different damage regions, and the periods around 7:00, 11:00 and 16:00 represented activity peaks for wild boar in seriously damaged regions. The damage distribution, density, distribution and activity rhythms provide specific priority regions and activity intensity peaks for conflict mitigation. We believe that these findings based on the damage, distribution and activity could provide a scientific basis for mitigation management at the county level and enrich the framework of human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junchen Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze River Delta Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Shanshan Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze River Delta Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Liping Tan
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze River Delta Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Jianwu Wang
- Zhejiang Forest Resources Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310020, China
| | - Xiao Song
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze River Delta Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Shusheng Zhang
- The Management Center of Wuyanling National Natural Reserve in Zhejiang, Wenzhou 325500, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Zhejiang Forest Resources Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310020, China
| | - Aichun Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Yangtze River Delta Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
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Sgroi G, D'Alessio N, Varcasia A, Degli Uberti B, Fani C, Trotta M, Fusco G, Doi K, Veneziano V. Morphometric, histopathological and molecular findings of Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus infection in wild boar (Sus scrofa) from continental Italy. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 104:102110. [PMID: 38070400 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102110] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Although Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus is a neglected acanthocephalan of suids occasionally responsible for severe infections in humans, the spread of wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations in Europe could promote the circulation. Herein, we report the first morphometric, histological and molecular characterization of a severe M. hirudinaceus infection in a boar from continental Italy. The boar's intestine displayed granulomatous enteritis due to 24 helminths (14 females, 10 males), identified as adults of M. hirudinaceus by a combined morphometric/molecular approach. The phylogenetic analysis of the cox1 gene revealed a close relationship of the M. hirudinaceus sequence type found herein with those from Hungary and insular Italy. The high haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity of M. hirudinaceus specimens would suggest its rapid demographic expansion in the Mediterranean basin. More research is needed to assess the presence of M. hirudinaceus in susceptible beetle species and the role of boars in the epidemiology of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici 80055, Italy.
| | - Nicola D'Alessio
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici 80055, Italy; Wildlife Observatory of the Campania region, Naples 80133, Italy
| | - Antonio Varcasia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari 07100, Italy
| | - Barbara Degli Uberti
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici 80055, Italy
| | | | | | - Giovanna Fusco
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici 80055, Italy
| | - Kandai Doi
- Department of Wildlife Biology, Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Tsukuba 305-8687, Japan
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Wildlife Observatory of the Campania region, Naples 80133, Italy; Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
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Cecchini V, Franchini M, Benfatto M, Filacorda S, Corazzin M, Bovolenta S. The Effect of the Wild Boar Hunting System on Agricultural Damages: The North-East of Italy as a Case Scenario. Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:42. [PMID: 38200773 PMCID: PMC10778083 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010042] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hunting is a method commonly used in several European countries to reduce crop damages by wild boar Sus scrofa. However, results are still controversial and poorly treated. Using data on official claims (i.e., damages to crops) and wild boar local counts and hunting bags collected from 2019 to 2022, the purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of the hunting system (divided into eradication and non-eradication areas) carried out in the north-east of Italy on the number of agricultural damages. The spatio-temporal distribution of wild boar hunting, density and damages as well as the effect of hunting, were evaluated through the hotspot analysis and the zero-inflated models, respectively. The results obtained revealed no clear spatial overlap among wild boar hunting, wild boar density and damages to agriculture in both the eradication and non-eradication areas. Moreover, the current level of harvesting did not significantly affect the number of agricultural damages. A multifaceted approach focused on the numeric control of the species based on accurate local counts and oriented towards more age classes in a similar percentage should be preferred to mitigate damages to cultivars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Cecchini
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (V.C.); (S.F.); (M.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Marcello Franchini
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (V.C.); (S.F.); (M.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Michele Benfatto
- Hunting Service and Fishing Resources, Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Via Sabbadini 31, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Stefano Filacorda
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (V.C.); (S.F.); (M.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Mirco Corazzin
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (V.C.); (S.F.); (M.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefano Bovolenta
- Department of Agrifood, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (V.C.); (S.F.); (M.C.); (S.B.)
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Pacifico L, Rubiola S, Buono F, Sgadari M, D'Alessio N, Scarcelli S, Sgroi G, Buglione M, Chiesa F, Restucci B, Fioretti A, Prakas P, Veneziano V. Molecular differentiation of Sarcocystis miescheriana and Sarcocystis suihominis using a new multiplex PCR targeting the mtDNA cox1 gene in wild boars in southern Italy. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105039. [PMID: 37812987 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105039] [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: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The increase of wild boar populations density and their meat consumption across Europe could expose humans to a plethora of foodborne diseases as sarcocystosis, caused by the zoonotic protozoan Sarcocystis suihominis. Humans become infected by eating raw or undercooked pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) containing S. suihominis sarcocysts. Despite this, to date very few data are available on the risk of infection by this parasite to wild boar (Sus scrofa) meat consumers. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the occurrence of Sarcocystis spp. in wild boars from southern Italy, applying both histology and a new multiplex PCR assay targeting the cox1 gene. Between 2019 and 2020, 997 muscle tissues (i.e., n = 269 oesophagus, n = 277 diaphragms, n = 298 hearts, n = 153 tongues) from 311 wild boars were collected and screened by a combined histological and molecular approach. Overall, 251 (80.7%) animals tested were positive for Sarcocystis spp., and S. miescheriana whose definitive hosts are canids, was the only molecularly identified species. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of Sarcocystis infection was found according to the wild boar age and muscle tissue. Findings outlined the low zoonotic potential of infection to humans via wild boar meat consumption in Italy and the importance of the application of new molecular methods in distinguishing different Sarcocystis species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pacifico
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Department of Prevention, Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Area, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Caserta, Via Feudo di San Martino 10, Caserta, Italy
| | - Selene Rubiola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, Turin 10095, Italy
| | - Francesco Buono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy.
| | - Mariafrancesca Sgadari
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola D'Alessio
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of southern Italy, Portici, via Salute 2, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Scarcelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of southern Italy, Portici, via Salute 2, Italy
| | - Maria Buglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia, 26, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiesa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, Turin 10095, Italy
| | - Brunella Restucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Petras Prakas
- Nature Research Centre, Akademijos Str. 2, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy; Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio - Campania Region, Naples, Italy
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Sgroi G, D’Alessio N, Auriemma C, Salant H, Gallo A, Riccardi MG, Alfano F, Rea S, Scarcelli S, Ottaviano M, De Martinis C, Fusco G, Lucibelli MG, Veneziano V. First molecular detection of Babesia vulpes and Babesia capreoli in wild boars from southern Italy. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1201476. [PMID: 37609054 PMCID: PMC10442169 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1201476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Following the increase of wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations in Europe, a potential risk of emerging infections by vector-borne pathogens may occur. Despite this, the circulation of piroplasmid species in these ungulates is still a neglected topic, particularly in the Mediterranean basin. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the presence of Babesia/Theileria spp. in wild boars from southern Italy to assess the epidemiological role of these ungulates in the circulation of piroplasmids. Methods By using a citizen science approach among hunters and veterinarians, wild boar spleen samples were collected in the Campania region (southern Italy) between 2016 and 2022. A combined semi-nested PCR/sequencing analysis targeting the V4 hyper-variable region of 18S rRNA was run to detect Babesia/Theileria spp. DNA. Results Out of 243 boars, 15 (i.e., 6.2, 95% CI: 3.4-9.9) tested positive to Babesia/Theileria spp., Babesia vulpes (n = 13, 5.3, 95% CI: 3.1-8.9) the most prevalent, followed by Babesia capreoli (n = 2, 0.8, 95% CI: 0.2-2.9). Three different B. vulpes sequence types were identified (i.e., ST1, ST2, ST3), with the most representative as ST1 (60%), and a single B. capreoli sequence type. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) were found between the presence of the pathogens and boar age, sex, province and sample collection year. Discussion Data demonstrate for the first time the occurrence of B. vulpes and B. capreoli in wild boars, which may play a role in the biological cycle of piroplasmids. We emphasize the importance of monitoring these ungulates to prevent potential foci of infection. The engagement of hunters in epidemiological scientifically based surveys can constitute a technically sound control strategy of piroplasmids in a One Health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Sgroi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Nicola D’Alessio
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
- Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio—Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Clementina Auriemma
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Harold Salant
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Amalia Gallo
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Marita Georgia Riccardi
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Flora Alfano
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Simona Rea
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Stefano Scarcelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Ottaviano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio De Martinis
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Giovanna Fusco
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Lucibelli
- Department of Animal Health, Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Portici, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Osservatorio Faunistico Venatorio—Campania Region, Naples, Italy
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Smith AL, Strickland BK, Leopold BD, Cummins JL, Mayer JJ, Street GM. Cultural and regulatory factors influence distribution and trajectory of invasive species in the United States: A wild pig case study. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 338:117742. [PMID: 37001426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117742] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Since 2012, control of invasive wild pigs (Sus scrofa) in the United States (US) has become a state and national priority due to their propensity to damage agricultural commodities and infrastructure, transmit disease, detrimentally affect ecological processes, and compete with native wildlife for resources. While several life-history characteristics certainly aided their proliferation, the recreational value of wild pigs was likely the stimulus for translocation and subsequent establishment of populations in ≥35 states, causing an annual economic burden of $1.5 billion in the US. Consequently, state-level legislative procedures regarding wild pigs are expanding in scope and priority, but policy among states lacks uniformity. States vary in their treatment of wild pig control based on differing resource appropriations and stakeholder interests. We conducted an evaluation to determine if policy was associated with state-level 1) presence of wild pigs, 2) spatial extent of wild pig population occupancy, and 3) trajectory of wild pig population occupancy. Our results suggest the presence of wild pigs in various states was influenced by hunting preserves and the sale of hunting opportunities. In occupied states, the spatial extent of wild pigs was again associated with the sale of hunting opportunities and a wild pig hunting culture. Finally, the trajectory of state-level wild pig spatial occupancy was positively influenced by the sale of hunting opportunities, and negatively influenced by transportation policies. Based on these findings, we propose state governments standardize transportation policy and fenced hunting regulations across regions of the US in a more prohibitive fashion to diminish range expansion through illegal and negligent introductions via transportation, release, and escapes from game farms. Moreover, in states where wild pigs have yet to establish, we strongly recommend states proactively prohibit transportation through intra- and interstate movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Smith
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, Box 9690, a213 Thompson Hall, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Bronson K Strickland
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, Box 9690, a213 Thompson Hall, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Bruce D Leopold
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, Box 9690, a213 Thompson Hall, MS, 39762, USA
| | | | - John J Mayer
- Savannah River National Laboratory, Battelle Savannah River Alliance, Savannah River Site, Aiken, SC, 29808, USA
| | - Garrett M Street
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, Box 9690, a213 Thompson Hall, MS, 39762, USA; Quantitative Ecology & Spatial Technologies Laboratory, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, Box 9690, a213 Thompson Hall, MS, 39762, USA
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Lestingi A. Use of Wild Boar ( Sus scrofa) as a Sustainable Alternative in Pork Production. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2258. [PMID: 37508036 PMCID: PMC10376712 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pork production involves several sustainability issues. The recent increase in the natural wild boar population and the possibilities of its breeding to produce meat and for sport hunting have revived attention on this wild species. The most important factors that could account for its expansion and niche invasion are briefly summarized with the scientific opinion on management strategies. The information available to date on the quantitative, nutritional, and sensory characteristics of wild boar meat is reviewed to highlight its potential, if properly managed, as a sustainable option in meat production. This review reports on the opportunity of using wild boar meat in processed products and the need for research on processing qualities and acceptability for different final products. Above all, this review suggests that wild boar can be considered a sustainable alternative to meet the animal protein demand, as it can be established in marginal areas where it is already adapted to the environment, representing an interesting addition to traditional zootechnics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Lestingi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy
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Prewer E, Vilaça ST, Bird S, Kutz S, Leclerc L, Kyle CJ. Metabarcoding of fecal pellets in wild muskox populations reveals negative relationships between microbiome and diet alpha diversity. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10192. [PMID: 37325724 PMCID: PMC10261903 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiome diversity and diet composition concomitantly influence species health, fitness, immunity, and digestion. In environments where diet varies spatially and temporally, microbiome plasticity may promote rapid host adaptation to available resources. For northern ungulates in particular, metabarcoding of noninvasively collected fecal pellets presents unprecedented insights into their diverse ecological requirements and niches by clarifying the interrelationships of microbiomes, key to deriving nutrients, in context of altered forage availability in changing climates. Muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) are Arctic-adapted species that experience fluctuating qualities and quantities of vegetation. Geography and seasonality have been noted to influence microbiome composition and diversity in muskoxen, yet it is unclear how their microbiomes intersect with diet. Following observations from other species, we hypothesized increasing diet diversity would result in higher microbiome diversity in muskoxen. We assessed diet composition in muskoxen using three common plant metabarcoding markers and explored correlations with microbiome data. Patterns of dietary diversity and composition were not fully concordant among the markers used, yet all reflected the primary consumption of willows and sedges. Individuals with similar diets had more similar microbiomes, yet in contrast to most literature, yielded negative relationships between microbiome and diet alpha diversity. This negative correlation may reflect the unique capacities of muskoxen to survive solely on high-fiber Arctic forage and provide insight into their resiliency to exploit changing dietary resources in a rapidly warming Arctic altering vegetation diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Prewer
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Sibelle T. Vilaça
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Samantha Bird
- Forensic Science DepartmentTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
| | - Susan Kutz
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | | | - Christopher J. Kyle
- Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate ProgramTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Forensic Science DepartmentTrent UniversityPeterboroughOntarioCanada
- Natural Resources DNA Profiling and Forensic CentrePeterboroughOntarioCanada
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Freschi P, Braghieri A, Pacelli C, Langella E, Riviezzi AM, Paolino R, Cosentino C. Sensory Profile and Consumer Liking of Sustainable Salamis Differing in Wild Boar Meat and Seasoning Ingredients Addition. Foods 2023; 12:1089. [PMID: 36900606 PMCID: PMC10000647 DOI: 10.3390/foods12051089] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The production of game meat is a proven way of promoting sustainable food, which is also consistent with the proper management of the expansion of the wild boar population in Italy. In the present study, we investigated consumer response to sensory attributes and consumer preference for ten types of "cacciatore" salamis prepared with different mixtures of wild boar/pork (30/50 or 50/50) and spice ingredients. PCA analysis showed a clear characterization of the salamis based on the first component with the hot pepper powder and fennel types differing from the others. For the second component, salamis without flavorings could be discriminated by those flavored with aromatized garlic wine or with black pepper only. The main findings of the hedonic test revealed that products with hot pepper and fennel seeds received the highest ratings, as well as satisfactory acceptance in the consumer test sensory analysis for eight out of ten products. The panelists and consumers' ratings were influenced by the flavors used, but not by the ratio of wild boar to pork. This gives us the opportunity to produce more cost-effective and environmentally friendly products, as doughs with a high proportion of wild boar meat can be used without affecting product preference.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ada Braghieri
- School of Agricultural, Forestry, Food and Environmental Sciences (SAFE), University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
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13
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Petrelli S, Buglione M, Rivieccio E, Ricca E, Baccigalupi L, Scala G, Fulgione D. Reprogramming of the gut microbiota following feralization in Sus scrofa. Anim Microbiome 2023; 5:14. [PMID: 36823657 PMCID: PMC9951470 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-023-00235-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild boar has experienced several evolutionary trajectories from which domestic (under artificial selection) and the feral pig (under natural selection) originated. Strong adaptation deeply affects feral population's morphology and physiology, including the microbiota community. The gut microbiota is generally recognized to play a crucial role in maintaining host health and metabolism. To date, it is unclear whether feral populations' phylogeny, development stages or lifestyle have the greatest impact in shaping the gut microbiota, as well as how this can confer adaptability to new environments. Here, in order to deepen this point, we characterized the gut microbiota of feral population discriminating between juvenile and adult samples, and we compared it to the microbiota structure of wild boar and domestic pig as the references. Gut microbiota composition was estimated through the sequencing of the partial 16S rRNA gene by DNA metabarcoding and High Throughput Sequencing on DNA extracted from fecal samples. RESULTS The comparison of microbiota communities among the three forms showed significant differences. The feral form seems to carry some bacteria of both domestic pigs, derived from its ancestral condition, and wild boars, probably as a sign of a recent re-adaptation strategy to the natural environment. In addition, interestingly, feral pigs show some exclusive bacterial taxa, also suggesting an innovative nature of the evolutionary trajectories and an ecological segregation in feral populations, as already observed for other traits. CONCLUSIONS The feral pig showed a significant change between juvenile and adult microbiota suggesting an influence of the wild environment in which these populations segregate. However, it is important to underline that we certainly cannot overlook that these variations in the structure of the microbiota also depended on the different development stages of the animal, which in fact influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Concluding, the feral pigs represent a new actor living in the same geographical space as the wild boars, in which its gut microbial structure suggests that it is mainly the result of environmental segregation, most different from its closest relative. This gives rise to interesting fields of exploration regarding the changed ecological complexity and the consequent evolutionary destiny of the animal communities involved in this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Petrelli
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Naples, NA Italy
| | - Maria Buglione
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Naples, NA Italy
| | - Eleonora Rivieccio
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Via Porta Di Massa 1, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Ezio Ricca
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Naples, NA Italy ,grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XTask Force On Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80100 Naples, NA Italy
| | - Loredana Baccigalupi
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, NA Italy
| | - Giovanni Scala
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Naples, NA Italy
| | - Domenico Fulgione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126, Naples, NA, Italy. .,Task Force On Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80100, Naples, NA, Italy.
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Trichinella britovi in wild boar meat from Italy, 2015-2021: A citizen science approach to surveillance. One Health 2022; 16:100480. [PMID: 36632478 PMCID: PMC9826805 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2022.100480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
As a result of the increase of game meat intended for human consumption through Europe, a plethora of food-borne diseases, including trichinellosis, may occur in consumers, posing a relevant public health threat. Thus, this study aims to a citizen science approach to monitor the occurrence of Trichinella spp. in wild boar meat intended for human consumption, evaluating the risk of infection for consumers. Following the European Regulation 2015/1375 (laying down specific rules on official controls for Trichinella in meat), from 2015 to 2021, hunters (n = 478) were involved to collect diaphragm pillar samples of wild boars from mainland southern Italy, which were tested for Trichinella spp. L1 larvae via HCl-pepsin digestion and Multiplex PCR. Overall, 139,160 animals were collected (average of 19,880 per year), being 14 (i.e., 0.01%) tested positive to Trichinella britovi by the combined biochemical and molecular approach. An average larval burden of 28.4 L1 per gram of meat was found (minimum 3.2 - maximum 132.6). A statistically significant difference was found in the prevalence according to hunting seasons (p < 0.01, with higher values in 2016 and 2021) and regions of the study area (p < 0.01). No statistically significant decrease in the prevalence of T. britovi throughout the study period was found (p = 0.51), except in Apulia region (p < 0.01). These findings revealed a stable prevalence of T. britovi in wild boar meat intended for human consumption, suggesting a risk of infection for consumers, especially hunters and local markets users. Citizen science surveillance models could be promoted to improve trichinellosis control and prevention in a One Health perspective.
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Rivieccio E, Troiano C, Petrelli S, Maselli V, de Filippo G, Fulgione D, Buglione M. Population development and landscape preference of reintroduced wild ungulates: successful rewilding in Southern Italy. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14492. [PMID: 36530413 PMCID: PMC9756874 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the past decades, the abandonment of traditional land use practices has determined landscape changes inducing reforestation dynamics. This phenomenon can be contrasted with rewilding practices, i.e., the reintroduction of animals that may promote the recovery of landscape diversity. In this study, we explore the dynamics of expansion of two reintroduced populations of wild ungulates, Italian roe deer (Capreolus capreolus italicus) and red deer (Cervus elaphus), assessing their contribution in the recovery of landscape diversity. Methods By using direct and indirect information on the two species, collected by nocturnal and diurnal surveys and camera trapping, we modelled a habitat suitability map, and estimated the density and distribution of the populations. We also performed a land use changes analysis, combining the presence of wild ungulates and livestock. Results and Discussion We demonstrated that deer dispersed gradually from their release location, increasing in population size, and this occurred in the entire study area. Moreover, we show that areas with lower grazing density are significantly affected by forest encroachment. A possible interpretation of this result could be that wild grazers (roe deer and red deer) prefer semi-open areas surrounded by the forest. This, in association with other factors, such as domestic grazing, could be one of the main responsible in maintaining landscape mosaic typical of the Apennine mountain, confirming the value of grazers as a landscape management tool. Moreover, we show the possibility to conserve through reintroduction the vulnerable C.c. italicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Rivieccio
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy,Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Troiano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Petrelli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Maselli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Domenico Fulgione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Buglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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