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Polsomboon Nelson S, Bourke BP, Badr R, Tarpey J, Caicedo-Quiroga L, Leiva D, Pott M, Cruz A, Chao CC, Achee NL, Grieco JP, Jiang L, Jiang J, Farris CM, Linton YM. Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and Associated Pathoge Collected From Domestic Animals and Vegetation in Stann Creek District, Southeastern Belize, Central America. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 59:1749-1755. [PMID: 35904108 PMCID: PMC9473654 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjac112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Data on the prevalence and distribution of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Belize are lacking. Ticks (n = 564) collected from dogs, horses, and vegetation in two villages in Stann Creek District in southeastern Belize in 2018, were molecularly identified and screened for tick-borne nonviral human pathogens. The identity of 417 ticks was molecularly confirmed by DNA barcoding as Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) (66.43%), Amblyomma ovale Koch (15.59%), Dermacentor nitens Neumann (11.51%), Amblyomma sp. ADB0528 (3.6%), and the remainder being small records (2.87%) of Amblyomma coelebs Neumann, Amblyomma imitator Kohls, Amblyomma tapirellum Dunn, Amblyomma auricularium Conil, and Amblyomma maculatum Koch. Individual tick extracts were screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp., Babesia spp., Babesia microti, Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Anaplasma spp. using available conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Rickettsia parkeri strain Atlantic Rainforest was identified in five specimens of A. ovale, and one other unidentified tick, all collected from dogs. Another unidentified tick-also collected from a dog-tested positive for an undefined but previously detected Ehrlichia sp. With the exception of D. nitens, all eight other tick species identified in this study were collected on dogs, suggesting that dogs could be usefully employed as sentinel animals for tick surveillance in Belize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suppaluck Polsomboon Nelson
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Brian P Bourke
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, uitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Laura Caicedo-Quiroga
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Donovan Leiva
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Marie Pott
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Alvaro Cruz
- Belize Vector and Ecology Center (BVEC), Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize
| | - Chien-Chung Chao
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Nicole L Achee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Galvin Life Science Center, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - John P Grieco
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Galvin Life Science Center, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Le Jiang
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ju Jiang
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christina M Farris
- Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Department, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Yvonne-Marie Linton
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Institution, Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), One Health Branch, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Mora-Rivera C, Suarez-Páez F, Pacheco-Sierra G, Vargas-Cuevas L, Padilla-Barreto M. Tick Infection of Caiman crocodilus fuscus at the Hidroprado Hydroelectric Dam in Colombia: New Records, Parasite Prevalence, and Blood Loss Rate. SOUTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HERPETOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2994/sajh-d-18-00080.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mora-Rivera
- Grupo de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Dinámica de Ecosistemas Tropicales, Universidad de Tolima, Ibagué 730006299, Colombia
| | - Fernando Suarez-Páez
- Semillero de Investigación en Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia sede Ibagué-Espinal, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Gualberto Pacheco-Sierra
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas y Transferencia de Tecnología a la Producción, Matteri y España E3105BWA, Diamante, Argentina
| | - Laura Vargas-Cuevas
- Semillero de Investigación en Fauna Silvestre, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia sede Ibagué-Espinal, Ibagué, Colombia
| | - Mónica Padilla-Barreto
- Grupode Investigación Impronta, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia sede Ibagué-Espinal, Ibagué, Tolima, Colombia
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Kwak ML, Foo M, Pocklington K, Hsu CD, Cheong W, How CB, Shunari M, Tahir MG. Tick-crocodilian interactions: a review, with the first record of tick (Acari: Ixodidae) infestation in the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), and a concise host-parasite index. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2019; 78:127-132. [PMID: 31093858 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-019-00378-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between ticks and crocodilians (crocodiles, alligators, caiman, and gharials) are poorly studied but may have significant bearing on the ecology and health of these reptiles. The first record of tick infestation of the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is reported along with the first case of infestation by Amblyomma cordiferum on Cuvier's dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus). A review is also provided of tick-crocodilian interactions with a concise host-parasite index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Kwak
- Evolutionary Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Science, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117558, Singapore.
| | - Maosheng Foo
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Dr, Singapore, 117377, Republic of Singapore
| | - Kate Pocklington
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Dr, Singapore, 117377, Republic of Singapore
| | - Chia-Da Hsu
- Department of Conservation, Research and Veterinary Services, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore, 729826, Republic of Singapore
| | - Webster Cheong
- Department of Conservation, Research and Veterinary Services, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore, 729826, Republic of Singapore
| | - Choon Beng How
- National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore, 259569, Republic of Singapore
| | - Mishak Shunari
- National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore, 259569, Republic of Singapore
| | - Muhammad Ghufran Tahir
- National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore, 259569, Republic of Singapore
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Charruau P, Pérez-Flores J, Cedeño-Vázquez JR, Gonzalez-Solis D, González-Desales GA, Monroy-Vilchis O, Desales-Lara MA. Occurrence of Amblyomma dissimile on wild crocodylians in southern Mexico. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2016; 121:167-171. [PMID: 27667814 DOI: 10.3354/dao03042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are common ectoparasites of amphibians and reptiles but very few reports of such parasites on crocodylians exist worldwide. Herein, we report the first detailed observations of Amblyomma dissimile Koch, 1844 on the 3 crocodylian species present in Mexico, with the first report of tick parasitism on Crocodylus acutus and the second on Caiman crocodilus chiapasius. This is also the first report of A. dissimile in the state of Quintana Roo. Proportions of infested individuals found in this study ranged from 0.51 to 1.96%, suggesting that tick parasitism in crocodylians is likely opportunistic and occurs when individuals leave the water for terrestrial activities. Tick parasitism does not represent a major threat to crocodylians. The increasing habitat destruction/fragmentation and cattle expansion in southeastern Mexico, however, could increase tick populations and trigger tick parasitism and tick-borne diseases in herpetofauna and other vertebrates, including humans. Thus, studies are needed to better understand these relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Charruau
- Centro del Cambio Global y la Sustentabilidad en el Sureste, A.C., Calle Centenario del Instituto Juárez s/n, Col. Reforma, CP 86080 Villahermosa, Tabasco, México
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Padilla SE, Weber M. External injuries of Morelet's crocodile Crocodylus moreletii in Campeche, Mexico. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2016; 120:151-158. [PMID: 27409238 DOI: 10.3354/dao03015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of external injuries in captive and free-ranging Morelet's crocodiles Crocodylus moreletii was performed in the northern wetlands of Campeche, Mexico. From March to September of 2007, a total of 52 free-ranging and 51 captive Morelet's crocodiles were studied. Captive crocodiles presented significantly more injuries. Sixteen free-ranging crocodiles presented some type of lesion, mostly superficial abrasions. Nineteen captive crocodiles presented lesions, mostly incisions from agonistic interactions. Overall, the injuries with highest prevalence were the incisions. The tail was the most frequently injured body region. Injuries were more common in adults than in other size classes. Conversely, the presence of lesions caused by the parasite Paratrichosoma spp. was greater in crocodiles captured in the coastal channels (mangrove habitat). The information presented here is important to understand some of the effects of individual interactions and to foresee and manage the consequences of conservation and management activities of crocodile populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio E Padilla
- Centro de Estudios de Desarrollo Sustentable y Aprovechamiento de la Vida Silvestre, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche. Avenida Héroe de Nacozari S/N, CP 24072, San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche, Mexico
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Smith PN, Cobb GP, Godard-Codding C, Hoff D, McMurry ST, Rainwater TR, Reynolds KD. Contaminant exposure in terrestrial vertebrates. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2007; 150:41-64. [PMID: 17706848 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2007.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2007] [Accepted: 06/01/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Here we review mechanisms and factors influencing contaminant exposure among terrestrial vertebrate wildlife. There exists a complex mixture of biotic and abiotic factors that dictate potential for contaminant exposure among terrestrial and semi-terrestrial vertebrates. Chemical fate and transport in the environment determine contaminant bioaccessibility. Species-specific natural history characteristics and behavioral traits then play significant roles in the likelihood that exposure pathways, from source to receptor, are complete. Detailed knowledge of natural history traits of receptors considered in conjunction with the knowledge of contaminant behavior and distribution on a site are critical when assessing and quantifying exposure. We review limitations in our understanding of elements of exposure and the unique aspects of exposure associated with terrestrial and semi-terrestrial taxa. We provide insight on taxa-specific traits that contribute, or limit exposure to, transport phenomenon that influence exposure throughout terrestrial systems, novel contaminants, bioavailability, exposure data analysis, and uncertainty associated with exposure in wildlife risk assessments. Lastly, we identify areas related to exposure among terrestrial and semi-terrestrial organisms that warrant additional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip N Smith
- The Institute of Environmental & Human Health, Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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Burridge MJ, Simmons LA. Exotic ticks introduced into the United States on imported reptiles from 1962 to 2001 and their potential roles in international dissemination of diseases. Vet Parasitol 2003; 113:289-320. [PMID: 12719143 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4017(03)00060-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Since 1962, a total of 29 species of exotic ticks have been introduced into the United States on imported reptiles, with 17 species from the genus Amblyomma, 11 from the genus Aponomma and one from the genus Hyalomma. In the absence of measures to control introduction of these importations, some exotic tick species will develop breeding colonies and become established as indigenous species and some tickborne diseases may be introduced to wreak havoc among susceptible native populations. However, formulation of risk assessments and rational control measures have been hampered by a lack of knowledge of these exotic ticks, with much of the available data published in older and relatively obscure publications. This report is an attempt to collate information for all 29 exotic tick species, including previously unpublished data from our laboratory, with particular reference to their geographical distribution, hosts, life cycles and vector potential, and to review methods to minimize their global dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Burridge
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110880, Gainesville, FL 32611-0880, USA.
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