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Ševčík R, Mahlerová K, Riera FA, Zárybnická M. Leucocytozoon Infection Does Not Influence the Survival of Boreal Owl Aegolius funereus Nestlings. Avian Dis 2024; 68:134-140. [PMID: 38885055 DOI: 10.1637/aviandiseases-d-23-00063] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Leucocytozoon infection has been observed to impact the reproductive ecology and physiology of avian hosts, but its influence on nestling survival remains unclear. We investigated the effect of Leucocytozoon infection intensity, determined through triplicate PCR sample analyses, on the survival of 256 boreal owl (Aegolius funereus) nestlings during an 8-yr study. Contrary to our expectations, the survival probability of boreal owl nestlings was not influenced by their Leucocytozoon infection intensity. Nestling age and Leucocytozoon infection intensity in male and female parents also did not impact nestling survival. Instead, food abundance and hatching order were the key factors influencing nestling survival. Additionally, we observed a significantly higher Leucocytozoon infection intensity in male parents compared to female parents and nestlings. We suggest a distinct division of parental roles may lead females and nestlings staying within the nest boxes (cavities) to experience lower exposure to potential vectors transmitting blood parasites than their male counterparts. Our study shows that Leucocytozoon disease may not be lethal for boreal owl chicks, exhibiting a below-average infection intensity compared to their male parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ševčík
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 00, Czech Republic
- Forestry and Game Management Research Institute, 252 02 Jíloviště, Czech Republic
| | - Karolina Mahlerová
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Fernando A Riera
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 00, Czech Republic
| | - Markéta Zárybnická
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, 165 00, Czech Republic,
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Gomes J, Leitão M, Louro MC, Brandão R, Mateus TL. Avian Malaria in wild birds from a wildlife rehabilitation center in Central Portugal. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 43:100904. [PMID: 37451760 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100904] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Avian haemosporidian (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium) are vector-transmitted protozoan parasites highly prevalent in various bird species. Still, their importance for bird health, species decline, or impact on rehabilitation success is underestimated. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and diversity of haemosporidian parasites after necropsies of seventy wild birds from thirty-four species of twelve taxonomic orders. Detection of avian haemosporidian DNA was evaluated using PCR amplification of the cytochrome b gene. 48.6% of all sampled birds were positive, with 24.3% positive for Plasmodium spp./Haemoproteus spp. and 44.3% for Leucocytozoon spp. Mixed infections corresponded to 20% of all tested birds. Sequencing of several selected samples revealed the infection of Plasmodium matutinum, Plasmodium relictum and different lineages of Leucocytozoon spp. This study provides a baseline description of haemosporidian infections in wild birds from a rehabilitation center in central Portugal. The results show the necessity to test and monitor possible infections that undermine recovery processes for different birds. Further research into the occurrence of these haemosporidian species in birds kept in conservation centers is needed to understand the impact on bird health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinto Gomes
- Escola Superior Agrária de Elvas, Instituto Politécnico de Portalegre, Elvas, Portugal; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal.
| | | | - Mariana Caseiro Louro
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Brandão
- Centre for Ecology, Recovery and Surveillance of Wild Animals (CERVAS), Gouveia, Portugal
| | - Teresa Letra Mateus
- Center for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability (CISAS), Escola Superior Agrária de Ponte de Lima, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Portugal; EpiUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal; Veterinary and Animal Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (Al4Animals), Vila Real, Portugal
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Valkiūnas G, Iezhova TA. Insights into the Biology of Leucocytozoon Species (Haemosporida, Leucocytozoidae): Why Is There Slow Research Progress on Agents of Leucocytozoonosis? Microorganisms 2023; 11:1251. [PMID: 37317225 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood parasites of the genus Leucocytozoon (Leucocytozoidae) only inhabit birds and represent a readily distinct evolutionary branch of the haemosporidians (Haemosporida, Apicomplexa). Some species cause pathology and even severe leucocytozoonosis in avian hosts, including poultry. The diversity of Leucocytozoon pathogens is remarkable, with over 1400 genetic lineages detected, most of which, however, have not been identified to the species level. At most, approximately 45 morphologically distinct species of Leucocytozoon have been described, but only a few have associated molecular data. This is unfortunate because basic information about named and morphologically recognized Leucocytozoon species is essential for a better understanding of phylogenetically closely related leucocytozoids that are known only by DNA sequence. Despite much research on haemosporidian parasites during the past 30 years, there has not been much progress in taxonomy, vectors, patterns of transmission, pathogenicity, and other aspects of the biology of these cosmopolitan bird pathogens. This study reviewed the available basic information on avian Leucocytozoon species, with particular attention to some obstacles that prevent progress to better understanding the biology of leucocytozoids. Major gaps in current Leucocytozoon species research are discussed, and possible approaches are suggested to resolve some issues that have limited practical parasitological studies of these pathogens.
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Castaño-Vázquez F, Merino S. Differential effects of environmental climatic variables on parasite abundances in blue tit nests during a decade. Integr Zool 2021; 17:511-529. [PMID: 34971472 PMCID: PMC9543696 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Models on climate change have predicted an increase of temperature over the earth's surface with potential drastic effects on living organisms. We analyzed the relationships between climatic conditions (temperature, rainfall, and wind speed) and the abundance of blood‐sucking flying insects (biting midges and blackflies) and nest‐dwelling ectoparasites (mites, fleas, and blowflies) collected from blue tit nests during bird breeding seasons for a period of 10 years. Average temperature, rainfall, and wind speed showed significant differences among years. Temperature and wind speed increased during the period of study while rainfall decreased. Biting midge, blackfly, and blowfly abundances increased across years but not flea and mite abundances. Hatching date decreased and brood size increased across years. Independently of year variation, parasites were related to climatic variables. For example, biting midge, blowfly, mite, and flea abundances were positive and significantly related to average temperature. We also found a positive and significant relationship between abundances of Haemoproteus infections and biting midge abundances during the first year of life of birds out of nests. However, abundance and prevalence of Lankesterella infections in yearlings were positive and significantly related to mite abundances during the year of birth of birds. Leucocytozoon and Lankesterella infections were also significantly related to climatic variables and Haemoproteus and Lankesterella infections increased across years. In addition, body condition of adult females and males were negatively related to flea larvae and blowfly abundance respectively. Nestling body condition was also negatively related to biting midge abundance. Changes in climatic conditions across years could therefore affect several parasites of birds but also to birds themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Santiago Merino
- Evolutionary Ecology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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Nourani L, Baghkheirati AA, Zargar M, Karimi V, Djadid ND. Haemoproteosis and avian malaria in Columbidae and Corvidae from Iran. Vet Med Sci 2021; 7:2043-2050. [PMID: 34240581 PMCID: PMC8464302 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian malaria (Plasmodium) and related genera (Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) are diverse and widespread parasites. Despite the extent of knowledge on avian haemosporidian parasites, information about domestic and wild bird's blood parasites is overall insufficient in Iran. Prevalence of the haemosporidian parasites’ and phylogenetic relationship of lineages are studied by using molecular and morphological results of 152 examined hosts belonging to 17 species. Molecular analysis for haemosporidian detections demonstrated overall prevalence 22.36%. Inspected hosts mostly belonging to Common Pigeons (Columba livia) parasitized by Haemoproteus spp., and Hooded Crows (Corvus cornix) and Carrion Crow (C. corone) were identified as hosting Plasmodium spp. Detected lineages COLIV03, COQUI05, LINN01, ROFI04 and SGS01 are identified as new reports from Iran. We detected no evidence of Leucocytozoon lineages, while the high prevalence of H. columbae was found in Common Pigeons. Such investigation on avian blood parasites contributes to providing new information on the prevalence, epidemiology and geographical distribution of haemosporidian parasites circulating in domestic, pets and wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nourani
- Malaria and Vector Research Group, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mostafa Zargar
- Malaria and Vector Research Group, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Karimi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Poultry Diseases, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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BLOOD PARASITE INFECTIONS IN STRIGIFORMES AND PSITTACIFORMES SPECIES IN CAPTIVITY WITH A NEW RECORD OF POTENTIAL FATAL BLOOD PARASITE TRANSMISSION TO PARROTS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 51:799-813. [PMID: 33480560 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although parrot species are infrequently infected by hemoparasites in the wild, some fatal infections have been reported in captive individuals. Conversely birds of prey are frequently infected by hemoparasites. In this study, 193 captive birds from Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) centers in Madrid, Spain, belonging to orders Psittaciformes, Accipitriformes, Strigiformes, and Falconiformes, were blood-sampled in search of parasite infections. Molecular and microscopic analyses were conducted to detect parasites of the following genera: Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon, Trypanosoma, Babesia, and Lankesterella. Infections by microfilariae and Coccidia were also searched in blood samples. Surprisingly, infections by Haemoproteus syrnii, a common parasite from owls, were detected in the cadavers of two species of parrots, Trichoglossus haematodus and Psittacula cyanocephala. The same haplotype was also detected in the cadavers of two owl species, Tyto alba and Strix rufipes. All these birds were housed and died in the same center. Infections by species of Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon, and Trypanosoma were also found in different species of raptors. Nocturnal raptors (Strigiformes) show significantly higher prevalence of infection by blood parasites than diurnal raptors (Falconiformes and Accipitriformes). In conclusion, a potential fatal transmission of Haemoproteus syrnii, from Strigiformes to Psittaciformes species, is reported and several infections by different blood parasites were detected in birds of prey. These results emphasize the importance of increasing prevention measures to avoid or reduce the transmission of blood parasites among birds from different species housed in these types of centers.
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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: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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.
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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.
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Tomás G, Zamora-Muñoz C, Martín-Vivaldi M, Barón MD, Ruiz-Castellano C, Soler JJ. Effects of Chemical and Auditory Cues of Hoopoes (Upupa epops) in Repellence and Attraction of Blood-Feeding Flies. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.579667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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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.
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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)
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Thaijarern J, Tangkawanit U, Wongpakam K, Pramual P. Molecular detection of Trypanosoma (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) in black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Thailand. Acta Trop 2019; 200:105196. [PMID: 31545950 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosomes are parasitic flagellate protozoans that are important disease causing agents in humans and animals including economically significant livestock. Many blood-sucking insects are known to be vectors of trypanosomes but there is no data for the haematophagous black fly species in Asia. In this study, a molecular approach based on the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene was used to detect trypanosomes in black flies from Thailand. A total of 470 wild-caught adult black flies representing nine morphological species were examined. Ten (2%) specimens of two ornithophilic black fly species, Simulium asakoae complex (n = 4) and S. chumpornense (n = 6), were positive for trypanosomes. The SSU rRNA sequences revealed that all trypanosome DNA found in black flies from Thailand is closely related to Trypanosoma avium with >99% sequence similarity. This is also supported by a phylogenetic analysis in which all trypanosomes from Thai black flies were resolved in the clade of T. avium. This is the first report for trypanosomes in Asian black flies and it is suspected that these insects are potential vectors of avian Trypanosoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiraporn Thaijarern
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Kantharawichai District, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Ubon Tangkawanit
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 Thailand
| | - Komgrit Wongpakam
- Walai Rukhavej Botanical Research Institute, Mahasarakham University, Kantharawichai District, Maha Sarakham 44150 Thailand
| | - Pairot Pramual
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Kantharawichai District, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand.
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Jones BC, DuVal EH. Direct and indirect effects of the El Niño Southern Oscillation on development and survival of young of a tropical passerine. Oecologia 2019; 190:485-496. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-019-04418-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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PREFLEDGING MORTALITY AND THE ABUNDANCE OF MOSQUITOES BITING NESTLING BARN OWLS ( TYTO ALBA) IN FLORIDA, USA. J Wildl Dis 2019; 55:597-607. [PMID: 30702952 DOI: 10.7589/2017-12-307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases can have disastrous effects on avian populations; therefore, most studies of bird and mosquito interactions have focused on the mortality and morbidity associated with the diseases. However, the effect of mosquitoes feeding on birds, independent of disease, has not been well studied. We studied Barn Owls (Tyto alba) nesting in artificial nest boxes in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) fields in Florida, US. To reduce mosquito effects on nestlings, we used an insecticide spray in half of the nest boxes. Mosquito suction traps were fixed to the outside of eight nest boxes (four treated and four untreated) to collect mosquitoes over a 24-h period (one trap night) once weekly, from incubation until all nestlings fledged. Collected mosquitoes were counted, sorted into blood-fed and unfed females, and identified to species when possible. The dominant mosquito species captured were Culex nigripalpus, Mansonia dyari, and Mansonia titillans. The highest total number of mosquitoes and blood-fed mosquitoes captured in a suction trap in one trap night was 3,193 and 379, respectively. Overall, significantly fewer mosquitoes were captured from treated nest boxes compared to untreated boxes. Nestling age influenced the total number of mosquitoes captured, with the highest numbers associated with fledglings 22-42 d old. The highest numbers of blood-fed mosquitoes were captured when nestlings were 22-28 d old. Nestlings in insecticide-treated boxes had higher survival rates compared to those in untreated boxes during months with high mosquito numbers. Mosquitoes can impose energetic costs on nestlings by causing stress from irritation, dehydration, and the constant regeneration of blood cells. These costs, in addition to factors such as food shortage, temperature, and overall health of the nestling, can contribute to higher mortality rates during nesting periods with high mosquito numbers.
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Schumm YR, Wecker C, Marek C, Wassmuth M, Bentele A, Willems H, Reiner G, Quillfeldt P. Blood parasites in Passeriformes in central Germany: prevalence and lineage diversity of Haemosporida ( Haemoproteus, Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon) in six common songbirds. PeerJ 2019; 6:e6259. [PMID: 30723612 PMCID: PMC6360073 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Avian Haemosporida are vector-borne parasites that commonly infect Passeriformes. Molecular analyses revealed a high number of different lineages and lineage specific traits like prevalence and host-specificity, but knowledge of parasite prevalence and lineage diversity in wild birds in Central Germany is still lacking. Results Blood samples from a total of 238 adult and 122 nestling songbirds belonging to six species were investigated for infections with avian haemosporidian genera and lineages (Haemoproteus spp., Plasmodium spp., Leucocytozoon spp.) and Trypanosoma avium using PCR, targeting the parasite mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and 18S ribosomal RNA. In total, the prevalence in adult birds was 31.3% infected with Haemoproteus, 12.5% with Plasmodium and 71.0% with Leucocytozoon (nestlings excluded). None of the tested birds was infected with Trypanosoma avium. Only in two nestling birds, aged 12–17 days, a Leucocytozoon spp. infection was proven. Among 225 successfully sequenced samples, we found four Haemoproteus, three Plasmodium and 19 Leucocytozoon lineages, including two new Leucocytozoon lineages. Furthermore, we report two new host-lineage associations. Conclusions As first study investigating avian haemosporidian parasites in Central Germany, we provide new information on genetic diversity of Haemosporida infecting Passeriformes. We show that even with a small sample size new lineages as well as previously unknown linkages between certain lineages and host species can be detected. This may help to elucidate the diversity of lineages as well as lineage-host-connections of avian Haemosporida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne R Schumm
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christine Wecker
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carina Marek
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mareike Wassmuth
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anna Bentele
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hermann Willems
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gerald Reiner
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Petra Quillfeldt
- Department of Animal Ecology & Systematics, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
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Vlasov S, Adler PH, Topolenko V, Aibulatov S, Gorlov I, Harutyunova M, Harutyunova K. Karyotypic Characteristics of the Ornithophilic Simulium aureum Species Group (Diptera: Simuliidae) Along the Northern Black Sea Coast and the Origin of Chromosomal Reduction. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:1160-1169. [PMID: 29733384 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The Simulium aureum group (Diptera: Simuliidae), also known as subgenus Eusimulium Roubaud, is a monophyletic, Holarctic taxon of bird-feeding black flies with a reduced chromosome number of two and remarkably similar external structure in all life stages. We analyzed the banding patterns of the polytene chromosomes to understand the composition of this species group along the northern coast of the Black Sea where two little-known nominal species have their type localities. Our analyses link the names Simulium krymense (Rubtsov) and Simulium maritimum (Rubtsov) with unique chromosomal characters, indicate that both are male chiasmate, and reveal the presence of Simulium angustipes Edwards along the northern coast of the Black Sea for the first time. We show that S. krymense has a banding sequence most similar to the hypothesized ancestral form of the S. aureum group, and that the entire group is derived from within the Simulium vernum group, rendering the latter group and its encompassing subgenus, Nevermannia Enderlein, paraphyletic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey Vlasov
- Department of General Biology and Bioecology, Moscow State Regional University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter H Adler
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University, McGinty Court, Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson, SC
| | - Varvara Topolenko
- Department of General Biology and Bioecology, Moscow State Regional University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Aibulatov
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ivan Gorlov
- Marine Research Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria Harutyunova
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Armenian Academy of Sciences, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Karine Harutyunova
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Armenian Academy of Sciences, Yerevan, Armenia
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15
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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.
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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.
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16
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Zhao W, Pang Q, Xu R, Liu J, Liu S, Li J, Su XZ. Monitoring the Prevalence of Leucocytozoon sabrazesi in Southern China and Testing Tricyclic Compounds against Gametocytes. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161869. [PMID: 27571513 PMCID: PMC5003344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucocytozoon parasites infect many species of avian hosts, including domestic chicken, and can inflict heavy economic loss on the poultry industry. Two major species of Leucocytozoon parasites have been reported in China, L. sabrazesi and L. caulleryi, although L. sabrazesi appears to be more widespread than L. caulleryi in southern China. The traditional method for detecting Leucocytozoon infection is microscopic examination of blood smears for the presence of mature gametocytes in circulation, which may miss infections with low parasitemia (gametocytemia) or immature gametocytes. Here we developed a PCR-based method to monitor L. sabrazesi infections at seven sites in four provinces of China after testing two PCR primer pairs based on parasite mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) and cytochrome c oxidase III (coxIII) genes. We compared the results of PCR detection with those of microscopic observation. As expected, the PCR assays were more sensitive than microscope examination in detecting L. sabrazesi infection and were able to detect parasite DNA after gametocytes disappeared in the blood stream. Using these methods, we investigated monthly dynamics of L. sabrazesi in chickens from a free-range farm in Xiamen, Fujian province of China, over one year. Our results showed that chickens were infected with L. sabrazesi year-round in southern China. Finally, we tested several compounds for potential treatment of Leucocytozoon infections, including primaquine, ketotifen, clomipramine hydrochloride, desipramine hydrochloride, sulfaquinoxaline, and pyrimethamine. Only primaquine had activity against L. sabrazesi gametocytes. Our results provide important information for controlling parasite transmission in southern China and disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
| | - Qin Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
| | - Ruixue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
| | - Jianwen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
| | - Shengfa Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (X-zS); (JL)
| | - Xin-zhuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States of America
- * E-mail: (X-zS); (JL)
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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.
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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
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18
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Malmqvist B, Adler PH, Kuusela K, Merritt RW, Wotton RS. Black flies in the boreal biome, key organisms in both terrestrial and aquatic environments: A review. ECOSCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/11956860.2004.11682824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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19
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Adler PH, Cherairia M, Arigue SF, Samraoui B, Belqat B. Cryptic biodiversity in the cytogenome of bird-biting blackflies in North Africa. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2015; 29:276-289. [PMID: 25801314 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Bird-biting blackflies in the Simulium (Eusimulium) aureum group (Diptera: Simuliidae) are widespread vectors of Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma parasites. The polytene chromosomes of 619 larvae of the three nominal members of the S. aureum group in North Africa were evaluated cytogenetically for cryptic biodiversity. Seven chromosomal segregates were discovered among 29 populations in Algeria and Morocco. This diversity was based primarily on two chromosomal inversions, which have assumed unique roles in different lineages, including sex linkage, fixation, loss and autosomal polymorphism. Reproductive isolation was demonstrated for six of the seven segregates, doubling the number of species known in the area. Four species were linked with existing names: (a) Simulium mellah Giudicelli & Bouzidi, which is known only from North African high-salinity habitats; (b) Simulium petricolum (Rivosecchi), which is tentatively conspecific with continental European populations; (c) Simulium rubzovianum (Sherban) and its synonym Simulium latinum (Rubtsov), which is widely distributed from North Africa across Europe into Western Asia, and (d) Simulium velutinum (Santos Abreu) and its new synonym Simulium tenerificum Crosskey, which is restricted to North Africa and the Canary Islands. Of the remaining entities, two are new species precinctive to North Africa and one, known only from Morocco, is of undetermined taxonomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Adler
- Entomology Program, School of Agricultural, Forest and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, U.S.A
| | - M Cherairia
- Laboratoire de Recherche et de Conservation des Zones Humides, Université 8 Mai 1945, Guelma, Algeria
| | - S F Arigue
- Département des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Faculté des Sciences Exactes et des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université Mohamed Kheider, Biskra, Algeria
| | - B Samraoui
- Laboratoire de Recherche et de Conservation des Zones Humides, Université 8 Mai 1945, Guelma, Algeria
- Centre of Excellence for Research in Biodiversity, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - B Belqat
- Laboratoire Écologie, Biodiversité et Environnement, Département de Biologie, Université Abdelmalek Essaâdi, Tétouan, Morocco
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20
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Jones K, Johnson N, Yang S, Stokes J, Smith W, Wills R, Goddard J, Varela-Stokes A. Investigations into Outbreaks of Black Fly Attacks and Subsequent Avian Haemosporidians in Backyard-Type Poultry and Other Exposed Avian Species. Avian Dis 2015; 59:24-30. [DOI: 10.1637/10867-052114-reg.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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21
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Al-Shaer L, Pierce AK, Larson D, Hancock R. Notes on facultative predation in Prosimulium larvae (Diptera: Simuliidae) in alpine and subalpine streams in Colorado. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MOSQUITO CONTROL ASSOCIATION 2015; 31:113-116. [PMID: 25843187 DOI: 10.2987/14-6460.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Although it is widely accepted that black fly larvae employ filter feeding as their primary mode of nutrient intake, other forms of food acquisition, such as predation, may be more prevalent than previously realized. It has been suggested that environments where particulate matter is low, such as high-elevation seasonal streams, may drive predatory behavior in black fly larvae. Relatively little is known about the frequency at which larvae prey on other organisms or if predation may be obligate in some species. In order to supplement the idea that larval black fly predation may be a common method of feeding under certain conditions, a preliminary survey of predation by Prosimulium larvae was conducted in order to assess predation frequency at high-elevation sites (> 3,200 m) in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Larvae were sampled from alpine and subalpine locations, and their gut content analysis revealed evidence of facultative predation and possible cannibalism. Evidence of predation was observed in all but 1 Prosimulium species collected. Predation frequency was highest in the North Fork Snake River headwater location, a small tributary stream of the Snake River in central Colorado. This survey suggests that further inquiry into predatory behavior of black fly larvae should be conducted to determine the mechanisms, behavior, and ecological impact of this understudied feeding strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Al-Shaer
- 1 Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
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22
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Zhao W, Cai B, Qi Y, Liu S, Hong L, Lu M, Chen X, Qiu C, Peng W, Li J, Su XZ. Multi-strain infections and 'relapse' of Leucocytozoon sabrazesi gametocytes in domestic chickens in southern China. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94877. [PMID: 24728499 PMCID: PMC3984278 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucocytozoon parasites infect many species of avian hosts, including domestic chicken, and can inflict heavy economic loss to the poultry industry. Although the prevalence and distribution of two Leucocytozoon species (L. sabrazesi and L. caulleryi) have been reported in China previously, there are many questions related to the parasite infection that remain unanswered, including population diversity and transmission dynamics in domestic chickens. Here we surveyed chicken blood samples from seven sites in four provinces of China to identify Leucocytozoon infection, characterized parasite diversity within individual infected hosts and between sampling sites, and investigated the dynamics of gametocytemia in chickens over time. We found high infection rates in three of the seven sites. Clustering parasite sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase III (coxIII) and cytochrome b (cytb) genes showed lack of grouping according to geographic origins and individual hosts carrying large numbers of L. sabrazesi strains. Monitoring gametocytemia in blood samples from infected chickens over time showed ‘relapse’ or persistence of low-level gametocytemia for 4–5 months, which could be explored as an in vivo model for testing drugs against liver stages of Apicomplexan parasites. This study provides important information on population diversity and transmission dynamics of L. sabrazesi and for disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Baowei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Yanwei Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Shengfa Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Lingxian Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Mingke Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Chunhui Qiu
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Wenfeng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
- * E-mail: (XZS); (JL)
| | - Xin-zhuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, the People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: (XZS); (JL)
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Abstract
SUMMARYThe effect of insect vectors on avian exposure to infection by pathogens remains poorly studied. Here, we used an insect repellent treatment to reduce the number of blood-sucking flying insects in blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus nests and examined its effect on nestling health status measured as body mass, nestling phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) response and blood parasite prevalence. We found that (i) the insect repellent treatment significantly reduced the number of blood-sucking flying insects in nests and (ii) the number of blood-sucking flying insects had a significant effect on the prevalence of the blood parasite Trypanosoma independently of the treatment. In addition, we found support for an adverse effect of parasite infections on nestling PHA response. Nestlings infected by Trypanosoma mounted a weaker response against PHA than non-parasitized ones. In addition, the number of blowflies in the nest was negatively associated with nestling PHA response. Overall, we found support for the hypothesis that blood-sucking flying insects attacking nestlings increase their exposure to parasite infections. Our results further substantiate the adverse effect of parasites on nestling condition.
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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.
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25
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Jonsson M, Strasevicius D, Malmqvist B. Influences of river regulation and environmental variables on upland bird assemblages in northern Sweden. Ecol Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11284-012-0974-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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26
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Gaudreau C, Charpentier G. Seasonal and Spatial Distributions of Black Fly Larvae (Diptera: Simuliidae) in Two Lake Outlet Streams of the Mauricie Region of Québec, and Species Survey in Parts of Southern Québec Territory. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2011. [DOI: 10.1656/045.018.0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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27
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Martínez-de la Puente J, Merino S, Tomás G, Moreno J, Morales J, Lobato E, Martínez J. Nest ectoparasites increase physiological stress in breeding birds: an experiment. Naturwissenschaften 2010; 98:99-106. [PMID: 21120448 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-010-0746-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 11/16/2010] [Accepted: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Parasites are undoubtedly a biotic factor that produces stress. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are important molecules buffering cellular damage under adverse conditions. During the breeding season, blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus (L.) adults are affected by blood parasites, nest-dwelling parasites and biting flies, potentially affecting their HSP-mediated responses. Here, we treated females with primaquine to reduce blood parasites and fumigated nests with permethrin to reduce nest-dwelling parasites to test whether these treatments affect HSP60 level during the breeding season. Medicated females, but not controls, had a significant reduction of the intensity of infection by Haemoproteus spp. blood parasites. However, final intensity of infection did not differ significantly between groups, and we did not find an effect of medication on change in HSP60 level. Fumigation reduced the abundance of nest-dwelling parasites (mites, fleas and blowfly larvae) and engorged biting midges in nests. Females breeding in non-fumigated nests increased HSP60 levels during the season more than those breeding in fumigated nests. Furthermore, the change in HSP60 level was positively correlated with the abundance of biting midges. These results show how infections by nest ectoparasites during the breeding period can increase the level of HSPs and suggest that biting midges impose physiological costs on breeding female blue tits. Although plausible, the alternative that biting midges prefer to feed on more stressed birds is poorly supported by previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué Martínez-de la Puente
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), J. Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006, Madrid, Spain.
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Martínez-de la Puente J, Merino S, Lobato E, Aguilar JRD, del Cerro S, Ruiz-de-Castañeda R, Moreno J. Nest-climatic factors affect the abundance of biting flies and their effects on nestling condition. ACTA OECOLOGICA-INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actao.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Berglund AMM, Ingvarsson PK, Danielsson H, Nyholm NEI. Lead exposure and biological effects in pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) before and after the closure of a lead mine in northern Sweden. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2010; 158:1368-75. [PMID: 20116150 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2009] [Revised: 12/08/2009] [Accepted: 01/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Mining activities affect the surrounding environment by increasing exposure to metals. In this study, metal accumulation and its effects on reproduction and health of pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) nestlings were monitored before and up to five years after a lead mine and enrichment plant closed down. The lead concentration in moss, nestling blood, liver and feces all indicated decreased lead exposure by at least 31% after closure, although only blood lead decreased significantly. Although the birds responded fairly well to the changed atmospheric deposition (based on moss samples), concentrations were still higher compared with birds in a reference area, and breeding was affected at the mine (smaller clutches and higher mortality). Surviving nestlings suffered from lower hemoglobin levels, mean cell hemoglobin concentrations and inhibited delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity. Lead poisoning contributed to poor health and adverse reproductive effects, but other factors (e.g. increased parasitic load) probably also affected the birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M M Berglund
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
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Testing the use of a citronella-based repellent as an effective method to reduce the prevalence and abundance of biting flies in avian nests. Parasitol Res 2009; 104:1233-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1353-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2009] [Accepted: 01/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Krone O, Waldenström J, Valkiūnas G, Lessow O, Müller K, Iezhova TA, Fickel J, Bensch S. Haemosporidian blood parasites in European birds of prey and owls. J Parasitol 2008; 94:709-15. [PMID: 18605786 DOI: 10.1645/ge-1357.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian blood parasites have been intensively studied using morphological methods with limited information on their host specificity and species taxonomic status. Now the analysis of gene sequences, especially the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of the avian haemosporidian species of Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon, offers a new tool to review the parasite specificity and status. By comparing morphological and genetic techniques, we observed nearly the same overall prevalence of haemosporidian parasites by microscopy (19.8%) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (21.8%) analyses. However, in contrast to the single valid Leucocytozoon species (L. toddi) in the Falconiformes we detected 4 clearly distinctive strains by PCR screening. In the Strigiformes, where the only valid Leucocytozoon species is L. danilewskyi, we detected 3 genetically different strains of Leucocytozoon spp. Two strains of Haemoproteus spp. were detected in the birds of prey and owls examined, whereas the strain found in the tawny owl belonged to the morphospecies Haemoproteus noctuae. Three Plasmodium spp. strains that had already been found in Passeriformes were also detected in the birds of prey and owls examined here, supporting previous findings indicating a broad and nonspecific host spectrum bridging different bird orders.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Krone
- Department of Animal Ecology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, Sweden.
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Ishak HD, Dumbacher JP, Anderson NL, Keane JJ, Valkiūnas G, Haig SM, Tell LA, Sehgal RNM. Blood parasites in owls with conservation implications for the Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis). PLoS One 2008; 3:e2304. [PMID: 18509541 PMCID: PMC2387065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2008] [Accepted: 04/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The three subspecies of Spotted Owl (Northern, Strix occidentalis caurina; California, S. o. occidentalis; and Mexican, S. o. lucida) are all threatened by habitat loss and range expansion of the Barred Owl (S. varia). An unaddressed threat is whether Barred Owls could be a source of novel strains of disease such as avian malaria (Plasmodium spp.) or other blood parasites potentially harmful for Spotted Owls. Although Barred Owls commonly harbor Plasmodium infections, these parasites have not been documented in the Spotted Owl. We screened 111 Spotted Owls, 44 Barred Owls, and 387 owls of nine other species for haemosporidian parasites (Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium, and Haemoproteus spp.). California Spotted Owls had the greatest number of simultaneous multi-species infections (44%). Additionally, sequencing results revealed that the Northern and California Spotted Owl subspecies together had the highest number of Leucocytozoon parasite lineages (n = 17) and unique lineages (n = 12). This high level of sequence diversity is significant because only one Leucocytozoon species (L. danilewskyi) has been accepted as valid among all owls, suggesting that L. danilewskyi is a cryptic species. Furthermore, a Plasmodium parasite was documented in a Northern Spotted Owl for the first time. West Coast Barred Owls had a lower prevalence of infection (15%) when compared to sympatric Spotted Owls (S. o. caurina 52%, S. o. occidentalis 79%) and Barred Owls from the historic range (61%). Consequently, Barred Owls on the West Coast may have a competitive advantage over the potentially immune compromised Spotted Owls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather D Ishak
- Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, United States of America.
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Tomás G, Merino S, Martínez-de la Puente J, Moreno J, Morales J, Lobato E. Determinants of abundance and effects of blood-sucking flying insects in the nest of a hole-nesting bird. Oecologia 2008; 156:305-12. [DOI: 10.1007/s00442-008-1001-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Tomás G, Merino S, Martínez-De La Puente J, Moreno J, Morales J, Lobato E. A simple trapping method to estimate abundances of blood-sucking flying insects in avian nests. Anim Behav 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2007.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Krone O, Waldenström J, Valkiūnas G, Lessow O, Müller K, Iezhova TA, Fickel J, Bensch S. Haemosporidian Blood Parasites in European Birds of Prey and Owls. J Parasitol 2008. [DOI: 10.1645/ge-1357r1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Bunbury N, Barton E, Jones CG, Greenwood AG, Tyler KM, Bell DJ. Avian blood parasites in an endangered columbid: Leucocytozoon marchouxi in the Mauritian Pink Pigeon Columba mayeri. Parasitology 2007; 134:797-804. [PMID: 17201998 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006002149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that pathogens can play a significant role in species decline. This study of a complete free-living species reveals a cost of blood parasitism to an endangered host, the Pink Pigeon Columba mayeri, endemic to Mauritius. We investigated the prevalence and effect of infection of the blood parasite, Leucocytozoon marchouxi, in the free-living Pink Pigeon population. Overall, L. marchouxi infection prevalence detected was 18.3%. Juveniles were more likely to be infected than older birds and there was geographical variation in infection prevalence. Survival of birds infected with L. marchouxi was lower than that of uninfected birds to 90 days post-sampling. This study suggests that while common haematozoa are well tolerated in healthy adults, these parasites may have greater pathogenic potential in susceptible juveniles. The study is unusual given its completeness of species sampling (96%) within a short time-period, the accurate host age data, and its focus on blood parasites in a threatened bird species. Species for which long-term life-history data are available for every individual serve as valuable models for dissecting the contribution of particular pathogens to species decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Bunbury
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, University of East Anglia, UK.
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Abstract
Hematologic and biochemical evaluation of raptor blood samples is discussed to guide the practitioner in the diagnosis of disease. Species and age variation in the raptors in response to the laboratory values is also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Joseph
- Bird and Pet Clinic of Roseville, Roseville, California, USA
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Tella JL, Blanco G, Forero MG, Gajón A, Donázar JA, Hiraldo F. Habitat, world geographic range, and embryonic development of hosts explain the prevalence of avian hematozoa at small spatial and phylogenetic scales. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1999; 96:1785-9. [PMID: 9990102 PMCID: PMC15595 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.96.4.1785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The factors explaining interspecific differences in prevalences of blood parasites in birds are poorly known. We simultaneously assessed 20 social, ecological, life history, and sampling-related variables that could influence hemoparasite prevalences among diurnal birds of prey in Spain. Our results show that multiple factors are responsible for the studied host-parasite association. We confirmed for the first time that prevalence is inversely correlated to the embryonic development period, and thus probably to immune performance, even among closely related birds. Macrohabitat features related to vector availability are also important, prevalences being higher in species breeding in forested habitats. Finally, prevalence is positively correlated with the host's world geographic range. We hypothesize that larger geographic ranges offered more opportunities for host-vector-hemoparasite associations to become established. The results from our multivariate analyses differ from those obtained through univariate ones, showing that all potential factors should be assessed jointly when testing any ecological or evolutionary hypothesis dealing with parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Tella
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5E2.
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