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Johnson TL, Persinger KA, Taus NS, Davis SK, Poh KC, Kappmeyer LS, Laughery JM, Capelli-Peixoto J, Lohmeyer KH, Ueti MW, Olafson PU. Nilgai antelope display no signs of infection upon experimental challenge with a virulent Babesia bovis strain. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:245. [PMID: 38824598 PMCID: PMC11144341 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06316-3] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine babesiosis is caused by infection with the protozoal parasite Babesia bovis, which is transmitted by Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) spp. It can cause mortality rates up to 90% in immunologically naive Bos taurus cattle. In south Texas, R. (B.) microplus is known to infest nilgai antelope (Boselaphus tragocamelus); however, their susceptibility to infection with B. bovis and their role in the transmission of the parasite remain unknown. In this study, we challenged nilgai antelope with B. bovis and evaluated their susceptibility to infection. METHODS Nilgai were needle inoculated with ≈108 B. bovis-parasitized erythrocytes (merozoites) or a homogenate of B. bovis-infected larval ticks (sporozoite) delivered intravenously. Bos taurus beef calves were inoculated in parallel, as this strain of B. bovis is lethal to cattle. Temperature and hematocrit were monitored daily over the course of each study, and whole blood was collected for molecular [polymerase chain reaction (PCR)] and serological [indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)] diagnostic evaluation. Histological sections of nilgai cerebral tissue were examined for evidence of infection. Recipient bovine calves were sub-inoculated with blood from nilgai challenged with either stage of the parasite, and they were monitored for clinical signs of infection and evaluated by a PCR diagnostic assay. Red blood cells (RBCs) from prechallenged nilgai and B. taurus beef cattle were cultured with an in vitro B. bovis merozoite culture to examine colonization of the RBCs by the parasite. RESULTS Nilgai did not display clinical signs of infection upon inoculation with either the merozoite or sporozoite stage of B. bovis. All nilgai were PCR-negative for the parasite, and they did not develop antibodies to B. bovis. No evidence of infection was detected in histological sections of nilgai tissues, and in vitro culture analysis indicated that the nilgai RBCs were not colonized by B. bovis merozoites. Cattle subinoculated with blood from challenged nilgai did not display clinical signs of infection, and they were PCR-negative up to 45 days after transfer. CONCLUSIONS Nilgai do not appear to be susceptible to infection with a strain of B. bovis that is lethal to cattle. Tick control on these alternative hosts remains a critical priority, especially given their potential to disseminate ticks over long distances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammi L Johnson
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Uvalde, TX, 78801, USA.
- Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | | | - Naomi S Taus
- USDA-ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Sara K Davis
- USDA-ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Karen C Poh
- USDA-ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Lowell S Kappmeyer
- USDA-ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Jacob M Laughery
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Janaína Capelli-Peixoto
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Kimberly H Lohmeyer
- Livestock Arthropod Pests Research Unit, Knipling-Bushland United States Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Massaro W Ueti
- USDA-ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Pia U Olafson
- Livestock Arthropod Pests Research Unit, Knipling-Bushland United States Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
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Mukhtar MU, Mahmood MA, Fayyaz Z, Klinpakdee K, Abdullah M. Opening the Black Box of Host Range, Vectorial Diversity, and Genetic Variants of Genus Anaplasma: The Contributing Factors Toward Its Zoonosis. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:265-273. [PMID: 38227393 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0043] [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] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Genus Anaplasma of the family Anaplasmataceae possesses bacteria of hematopoietic origin, which are obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria transmitted mainly by tick vectors. The members of this group of infectious agents are not new as etiological agents of animal diseases worldwide. However, now, reports of their zoonotic potential have gained currency to study these pathogens. The emergence of new species of Anaplasma and the spread of existing species to new areas and hosts highlight the importance of monitoring and improving diagnostic and treatment options for zoonotic diseases caused by Anaplasma. Conclusion: This review focuses on the general and distinctive characteristics of Anaplasma spp., with particular emphasis on the novel species and their diverse spectrum of hosts as potential risk factors impacting its emerging zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Uzair Mukhtar
- Department of Medical Entomology and Parasitology, Institute of Public Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Mahmood
- Department of Medical Entomology and Parasitology, Institute of Public Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Zahra Fayyaz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Public Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Kanoknaphat Klinpakdee
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-Ok, Chonburi, Thailand
| | - Muhammad Abdullah
- Department of Paramedical Education, Institute of Public Health, Lahore, Pakistan
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Silva MG, Bastos RG, Laughery JM, Alzan HF, Rathinasamy VA, Cooke BM, Suarez CE. Vaccination of cattle with the Babesia bovis sexual-stage protein HAP2 abrogates parasite transmission by Rhipicephalus microplus ticks. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:140. [PMID: 37758790 PMCID: PMC10533483 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00741-8] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The apicomplexan parasite Babesia bovis is responsible for bovine babesiosis, a poorly controlled tick-borne disease of global impact. The widely conserved gametocyte protein HAPLESS2/GCS1 (HAP2) is uniquely expressed on the surface of B. bovis sexual stage parasites and is a candidate for transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV). Here, we tested whether vaccination of calves with recombinant HAP2 (rHAP2) interferes with the transmission of B. bovis by competent ticks. Calves vaccinated with rHAP2 (n = 3), but not control animals (n = 3) developed antibodies specific to the vaccine antigen. Vaccinated and control animals were infested with Rhipicephalus microplus larvae and subsequently infected with virulent blood stage B. bovis parasites by needle inoculation, with all animals developing clinical signs of acute babesiosis. Engorged female ticks fed on the infected calves were collected for oviposition, hatching, and obtention of larvae. Transmission feeding was then conducted using pools of larvae derived from ticks fed on rHAP2-vaccinated or control calves. Recipient calves (n = 3) exposed to larvae derived from control animals, but none of the recipient calves (n = 3) challenged with larvae from ticks fed on rHAP2-vaccinated animals, developed signs of acute babesiosis within 11 days after tick infestation. Antibodies against B. bovis antigens and parasite DNA were found in all control recipient animals, but not in any of the calves exposed to larvae derived from HAP2-vaccinated animals, consistent with the absence of B. bovis infection via tick transmission. Overall, our results are consistent with the abrogation of parasite tick transmission in rHAP2-vaccinated calves, confirming this antigen as a prime TBV candidate against B. bovis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta G Silva
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Reginaldo G Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jacob M Laughery
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Heba F Alzan
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Vignesh A Rathinasamy
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Brian M Cooke
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Carlos E Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA.
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Mwale R, Mulavu M, Khumalo CS, Mukubesa A, Nalubamba K, Mubemba B, Changula K, Simulundu E, Chitanga S, Namangala B, Mataa L, Zulu VC, Munyeme M, Muleya W. Molecular detection and characterization of Anaplasma spp. in cattle and sable antelope from Lusaka and North-Western provinces of Zambia. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 39:100847. [PMID: 36878632 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100847] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Rickettsiales of the genus Anaplasma are globally distributed tick-borne pathogens of animals and humans with complex epidemiological cycles. Anaplasmosis is an important livestock disease in Zambia but its epidemiological information is inadequate. This study aimed to detect and characterize the species of Anaplasma present in domestic and wild ruminants in Zambia with a focus on the infection risk posed by the translocation of sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) from North-Western Province to Lusaka Province. Archived DNA samples (n = 100) extracted from whole blood (sable n = 47, cattle n = 53) were screened for Anaplasmataceae using 16S rRNA partial gene amplification followed by species confirmation using phylogenetic analysis. Out of the 100 samples, Anaplasma species were detected in 7% (4/57) of the cattle and 24% (10/43) of the sable antelope samples. Of the 14 positive samples, five were determined to be A. marginale (four from cattle and one from sable), seven were A. ovis (sable) and two were A. platys (sable). Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA partial gene sequences revealed genetic proximity between A. ovis and A. marginale, regardless of host. The detection of Anaplasma in wildlife in Zambia shows the risk of transmission of Anaplasma species associated with wildlife translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhodasi Mwale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Malala Mulavu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Cynthia Sipho Khumalo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrew Mukubesa
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - King Nalubamba
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Benjamin Mubemba
- Department of Wildlife Sciences, School of Natural Resources, Copperbelt University, P.O Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Katendi Changula
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Edgar Simulundu
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia; Macha Research Trust, P.O. Box 630166, Choma, Zambia
| | - Simbarashe Chitanga
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia; Department of Preclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine, University of Namibia, Namibia; School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering & Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Boniface Namangala
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Liywali Mataa
- Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Lusaka 50060, Zambia
| | - Victor Chisha Zulu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Musso Munyeme
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Walter Muleya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, P.O Box 32379, Lusaka, Zambia.
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Showler AT, Harlien JL. Desiccant Dusts, With and Without Bioactive Botanicals, Lethal to Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus Canestrini (Ixodida: Ixodidae) in the Laboratory and on Cattle. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:346-355. [PMID: 36734019 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad010] [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: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The exotic southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini) (Ixodida: Ixodidae), since its eradication from the United States in 1943, made a strong incursion into Texas, beginning 2016. The pest is arguably the most economically detrimental ectoparasite of cattle, Bos taurus L., worldwide. Current R. (B.) microplus control mostly relies on conventional synthetic acaricides to which the ixodid has been developing resistance. Our study demonstrates that commercially available desiccant dust products, with and without bioactive botanical additives, are strongly lethal, when applied dry, against larval R. (B.) microplus in the laboratory, and after being released on dust-treated cattle. Deadzone (renamed Celite 610, a diatomaceous earth product), Drione (silica gel + pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide synergist), and EcoVia (silica gel + thyme oil), each prophylactically prevented larval R. (B.) microplus from attaching to and feeding on stanchioned calves. Desiccant dust-based products are less likely than conventional synthetic acaricides to decline in terms of efficacy as a result of ixodid resistance, and other desiccant dust advantages, including extended residual, flexibility in terms of application methods, environmental, animal, and human safety, and possible compatibility with organic, or 'green', production systems, are discussed. We anticipate that the desiccant dusts we evaluated, and others not included in this study (e.g., kaolin, perlite, and silica gel) will be effective when used with other control tactics in integrated pest management approaches for controlling R. (B.) microplus (and other ixodid species).
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan T Showler
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA
| | - Jessica L Harlien
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA
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Sliwa KM, Baumgardt JA, DeYoung RW, Ortega‐S JA, Hewitt DG, Goolsby JA, Lohmeyer KH. Movement ecology of exotic nilgai antelope: A threat to the re‐emergence of cattle fever ticks in the southern
USA. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M. Sliwa
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Texas A&M University–Kingsville Kingsville Texas USA
| | - Jeremy A. Baumgardt
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Texas A&M University–Kingsville Kingsville Texas USA
| | - Randy W. DeYoung
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Texas A&M University–Kingsville Kingsville Texas USA
| | - J. Alfonso Ortega‐S
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Texas A&M University–Kingsville Kingsville Texas USA
| | - David G. Hewitt
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Texas A&M University–Kingsville Kingsville Texas USA
| | - John A. Goolsby
- USDA Agricultural Research Service Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory Edinburg Texas USA
| | - Kimberly H. Lohmeyer
- USDA Agricultural Research Service Knipling‐Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center Kerrville Texas USA
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Galán AP, Hamer SA, Folmar HA, Campbell TA, Light JE. Baseline Biodiversity Assessment of South Texas Small Mammals and Host-Associated Hard Ticks with No Detection of Selected Tick-Borne Pathogens. WEST N AM NATURALIST 2022. [DOI: 10.3398/064.082.0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aleyda P. Galán
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Sarah A. Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | - Hunter A. Folmar
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
| | | | - Jessica E. Light
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
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Thomas DB, Duhaime R. Medicated corn feeders to disinfest cattle fever ticks, Boophilus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae), from a suburban population of white-tailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus (Cervidae). EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2022; 86:431-441. [PMID: 35235093 PMCID: PMC8967753 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-022-00699-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Following its eradication from the USA, the cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini), a vector of bovine babesiosis, has made episodic incursions into, and sometimes beyond, an established barrier zone separating tick-free from endemic areas. In large part the incursions involve hosting and transport by wild ungulates, particularly deer and antelope. One approach to disinfest ticks from wild hosts is with food baits medicated to stop parasites. The approach has had mixed success due to factors that have been previously identified with supplemental feeding of wildlife especially competition for the bait, social dominance behavior, and the availability of alternative food sources. Given that not all of the target hosts will intake a therapeutic dose of the medication (ivermectin) at all seasons of the year, an open question is whether the approach is efficacious as a stand-alone treatment or even as part of an integrated program. As detailed in the present study an intensive effort was successful in eradicating a local outbreak of fever ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald B Thomas
- Agricultural Research Service, Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory, USDA, 22675 North Moorefield Road, Edinburg, TX, 77841, USA.
| | - Roberta Duhaime
- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program, USDA, 120 San Francisco Avenue, Laredo, TX, 78040, USA
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Almazán C, Scimeca RC, Reichard MV, Mosqueda J. Babesiosis and Theileriosis in North America. Pathogens 2022; 11:168. [PMID: 35215111 PMCID: PMC8874406 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesia and Theileria are apicomplexan parasites that cause established and emerging diseases in humans, domestic and wild animals. These protozoans are transmitted by Ixodid ticks causing babesiosis or theileriosis, both characterized by fever, hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly. In North America (NA), the most common species affecting humans is B. microti, which is distributed in the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States (US), where the tick vector Ixodes scapularis is established. In livestock, B. bovis and B. bigemina are the most important pathogens causing bovine babesiosis in tropical regions of Mexico. Despite efforts toward eradication of their tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus, B. bovis and B. bigemina present a constant threat of being reintroduced into the southern US and represent a continuous concern for the US cattle industry. Occasional outbreaks of T. equi, and T. orientalis have occurred in horses and cattle, respectively, in the US, with significant economic implications for livestock including quarantine, production loss, and euthanasia of infected animals. In addition, a new species, T. haneyi, has been recently discovered in horses from the Mexico-US border. Domestic dogs are hosts to at least four species of Babesia in NA that may result in clinical disease that ranges from subclinical to acute, severe anemia. Herein we review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and epidemiology of the most important diseases caused by Babesia and Theileria to humans, domestic and wild animals in Canada, the US, and Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Almazán
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
| | - Ruth C. Scimeca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Mason V. Reichard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA; (R.C.S.); (M.V.R.)
| | - Juan Mosqueda
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
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Showler AT, Pérez de León A, Saelao P. Biosurveillance and Research Needs Involving Area-Wide Systematic Active Sampling to Enhance Integrated Cattle Fever Tick (Ixodida: Ixodidae) Eradication. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1601-1609. [PMID: 33822110 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The one-host cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus (Say), and southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini), are important ectoparasitic pests of cattle, Bos taurus L., mostly for transmitting the causal agents of bovine babesiosis. Bovine babesiosis inflicted substantial cattle production losses in the United States before the vectors were eliminated by 1943, with the exception of a Permanent Quarantine Zone in South Texas, a buffer along the Mexico border where the invasive ixodids remain. As suitable hosts, infested white-tailed deer and nilgai antelope populations disperse R. annulatus and R. microplus, which increases the risk for emergence of bovine babesiosis in the United States. A R. microplus incursion first detected in 2016 on the South Texas coastal plain wildlife corridor involved infestations on cattle, nilgai antelope, white-tailed deer, and vegetation. Efforts at passive sampling of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) spp. on hosts are concentrated in the Permanent Quarantine Zone. Hence, a knowledge gap exists on the full extent of the recent incursions. Area-wide, systematic, active sampling and supportive research, involving the Permanent Quarantine Zone, Temporary Quarantine Zone, most of the coastal plain, and other parts of Texas outside of the quarantine zones, are needed to bridge the knowledge gap. Herein, we provide research perspectives and rationale to develop and implement systematic active sampling that will provide an increasingly accurate assessment of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) spp. distribution in Texas. We suggest that this is essential to advance integrated vector-borne animal disease eradication approaches for keeping cattle free of bovine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan T Showler
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA
| | - Adalberto Pérez de León
- USDA-ARS, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, CA 93648, USA
| | - Perot Saelao
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA
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Tsao JI, Hamer SA, Han S, Sidge JL, Hickling GJ. The Contribution of Wildlife Hosts to the Rise of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in North America. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1565-1587. [PMID: 33885784 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife vertebrate hosts are integral to enzootic cycles of tick-borne pathogens, and in some cases have played key roles in the recent rise of ticks and tick-borne diseases in North America. In this forum article, we highlight roles that wildlife hosts play in the maintenance and transmission of zoonotic, companion animal, livestock, and wildlife tick-borne pathogens. We begin by illustrating how wildlife contribute directly and indirectly to the increase and geographic expansion of ticks and their associated pathogens. Wildlife provide blood meals for tick growth and reproduction; serve as pathogen reservoirs; and can disperse ticks and pathogens-either through natural movement (e.g., avian migration) or through human-facilitated movement (e.g., wildlife translocations and trade). We then discuss opportunities to manage tick-borne disease through actions directed at wildlife hosts. To conclude, we highlight key gaps in our understanding of the ecology of tick-host interactions, emphasizing that wildlife host communities are themselves a very dynamic component of tick-pathogen-host systems and therefore complicate management of tick-borne diseases, and should be taken into account when considering host-targeted approaches. Effective management of wildlife to reduce tick-borne disease risk further requires consideration of the 'human dimensions' of wildlife management. This includes understanding the public's diverse views and values about wildlife and wildlife impacts-including the perceived role of wildlife in fostering tick-borne diseases. Public health agencies should capitalize on the expertise of wildlife agencies when developing strategies to reduce tick-borne disease risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean I Tsao
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Sarah A Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, and Schubot Center for Avian Health, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Seungeun Han
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jennifer L Sidge
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Graham J Hickling
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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Wang HH, Grant WE, Teel PD, Lohmeyer KH, Pérez de León AA. Simulated dynamics of southern cattle fever ticks (Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus) in south Texas, USA: investigating potential wildlife-mediated impacts on eradication efforts. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:231. [PMID: 33933151 PMCID: PMC8088722 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04724-3] [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] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cattle fever ticks (CFT), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus and R. (B.) microplus, are vectors of microbes causing bovine babesiosis and pose a threat to the economic viability of the US livestock industry. Efforts by the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program (CFTEP) along the US-Mexico border in south Texas are complicated by the involvement of alternate hosts, including white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus). Methods In the present study, we use a spatially explicit, individual-based model to explore the potential effects of host species composition and host habitat use patterns on southern cattle fever ticks (SCFT, R. (B.) microplus) infestation dynamics and efficacy of eradication schemes. Results In simulations without eradication efforts, mean off-host larval densities were much higher when cattle were present than when only white-tailed deer and nilgai were present. Densities in mesquite and meadows were slightly higher, and densities in mixed brush were much lower, than landscape-level densities in each of these scenarios. In eradication simulations, reductions in mean off-host larval densities at the landscape level were much smaller when acaricide was applied to cattle only, or to cattle and white-tailed deer, than when applied to cattle and nilgai. Relative density reductions in mesquite, mixed brush, and meadows depended on host habitat use preferences. Shifting nilgai habitat use preferences increasingly toward mixed brush and away from mesquite did not change mean off-host larval tick densities noticeably at the landscape level. However, mean densities were increased markedly in mesquite and decreased markedly in mixed brush, while no noticeable change in density was observed in meadows. Conclusions Our results suggest that continued integration of field data into spatially explicit, individual-based models will facilitate the development of novel eradication strategies and will allow near-real-time infestation forecasts as an aid in anticipating and preventing wildlife-mediated impacts on SCFT eradication efforts.![]() Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04724-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Hsuan Wang
- Ecological Systems Laboratory, Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - William E Grant
- Ecological Systems Laboratory, Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Pete D Teel
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kimberly H Lohmeyer
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Adalberto A Pérez de León
- Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA.,San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Parlier, CA, 93648, USA
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Shapiro-Ilan DI, Goolsby JA. Evaluation of Barricade® to enhance survival of entomopathogenic nematodes on cowhide. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 184:107592. [PMID: 33882276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), Steinernema riobrave and Heterorhabditis floridensis are under evaluation for eradication of the southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus microplus infesting nilgai antelope, in South Texas. Cattle fever ticks are a significant threat to the U.S. livestock industry. Although they have been eradicated in the U.S. they frequently re-invade along the Texas-Mexico border. Remotely operated field sprayers have been developed to directly treat nilgai antelope with EPNs as they transit fence crossings and as they contact wetted foliage and soil from the surrounding area. EPNs are known to be susceptible to mortality from ultraviolet light (UV) and desiccation. A sprayable fire gel, Barricade®, has been reported to protect EPNs from UV and desiccation but has not been tested on animal hides. Barricade® at 1 and 2 percent rates was mixed with the water solution of S. riobrave and H. floridensis and applied to cowhides (to mimic direct treatment of nilgai) and filter paper and then these substrates were placed out of doors in 0, 30, 60 or 120 min of sunlight. Wax moth larvae, Galleria mellonella, were exposed to the cowhides and filter paper to determine efficacy of the EPNs. Efficacy of S. riobrave with 1 and 2% Barricade® gel applied to cowhides was significantly improved at 30 and 60 min as compared to the control. At 120 min mortality of the wax moth larvae was near zero for both the control and the treatments. Similar results were found with the filter paper test. In contrast, efficacy of H. floridensis with Barricade® applied to cowhides or filter paper was not significantly improved at 30, 60 or 120 min as compared to the water only control. Barricade® has the potential to improve the efficacy of S. riobrave and other EPNs by reducing mortality and desiccation, especially when used in the remotely operated sprayer developed for treatment of cattle fever tick infested nilgai.
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Affiliation(s)
- David I Shapiro-Ilan
- USDA-ARS, Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Laboratory, Byron, GA 31008, United States
| | - John A Goolsby
- United States Dept. of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Plains Area, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory, Edinburg, TX 78541, United States.
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Olafson PU, Buckmeier BG, May MA, Thomas DB. Molecular screening for rickettsial bacteria and piroplasms in ixodid ticks surveyed from white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus) and nilgai antelope ( Boselaphus tragocamelus) in southern Texas. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2020; 13:252-260. [PMID: 33294364 PMCID: PMC7691163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A survey of ixodid ticks parasitizing white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and nilgai antelope (Boselaphus tragocamelus) was completed during the 2018–2019 public hunt season on the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (Cameron County, Texas) and the East Foundation's El Sauz Ranch in nearby Willacy County (Texas). Anocenter nitens was the predominant tick species identified with 5% of these ticks collected from nilgai. All life stages were encountered in high numbers on white-tailed deer, indicating that deer may be a primary host in this region. Amblyomma maculatum and Amblyomma inornatum were identified from both hosts, while Ixodes scapularis was encountered only on white-tailed deer. This is the first published record of A. inornatum on nilgai. A subset of ticks was used in PCR assays to detect Rickettsia spp., family Anaplasmataceae, Borrelia spp., and Theileria-Babesia spp. Borrelia spp. were not detected in any of the ticks analyzed. Rickettsia parkeri was detected in three A. maculatum adult ticks from deer, Rickettsia sp. endosymbiont sequences were present in all I. scapularis ticks, and Rickettsia amblyommatis was detected in three A. inornatum adult ticks from deer. Sequence analysis of Anaplasmataceae-positive amplicons from A. nitens and A. maculatum had low percent identity to published Anaplasma spp. sequences, suggesting a unique Anaplasma sp. may be circulating in the population. Anaplasma platys was detected from A. nitens larvae and an Ehrlichia sp. Delta strain was present in A. maculatum, both of unknown pathogenicity towards deer. Theileria cervi was detected in all stages of A. nitens ticks, and positive ticks originated from 27 of 31 deer and a single nilgai sampled from throughout the survey site. The primary vector for T. cervi is absent from this region, suggesting T. cervi is possibly maintained by a different tick species. Anocenter nitens predominates on white-tailed deer and nilgai in southern Texas. Theileria cervi was detected in Anocenter nitens ticks from deer and a single nilgai. Three Theileria cervi genotypes were detected in this region of southern Texas. Unique Anaplasma sp. detected in A. nitens; low identity to known Anaplasma sp. Amblyomma inornatum ticks were identified on nilgai; a first record on this host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia U Olafson
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Beverly Greta Buckmeier
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Melinda A May
- USDA-ARS Knipling-Bushland Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, 2700 Fredericksburg Rd., Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Donald B Thomas
- USDA-ARS Cattle Fever Tick Research Laboratory, 22675 N. Moorefield Road, Moore Air Base, Edinburg, TX, 78541, USA
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Esteve-Gasent MD, Rodríguez-Vivas RI, Medina RF, Ellis D, Schwartz A, Cortés Garcia B, Hunt C, Tietjen M, Bonilla D, Thomas D, Logan LL, Hasel H, Alvarez Martínez JA, Hernández-Escareño JJ, Mosqueda Gualito J, Alonso Díaz MA, Rosario-Cruz R, Soberanes Céspedes N, Merino Charrez O, Howard T, Chávez Niño VM, Pérez de León AA. Research on Integrated Management for Cattle Fever Ticks and Bovine Babesiosis in the United States and Mexico: Current Status and Opportunities for Binational Coordination. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110871. [PMID: 33114005 PMCID: PMC7690670 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis is a reportable transboundary animal disease caused by Babesia bovis and Babesiabigemina in the Americas where these apicomplexan protozoa are transmitted by the invasive cattle fever ticks Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus and Rhipicephalus(Boophilus) annulatus. In countries like Mexico where cattle fever ticks remain endemic, bovine babesiosis is detrimental to cattle health and results in a significant economic cost to the livestock industry. These cattle disease vectors continue to threaten the U.S. cattle industry despite their elimination through efforts of the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program. Mexico and the U.S. share a common interest in managing cattle fever ticks through their economically important binational cattle trade. Here, we report the outcomes of a meeting where stakeholders from Mexico and the U.S. representing the livestock and pharmaceutical industry, regulatory agencies, and research institutions gathered to discuss research and knowledge gaps requiring attention to advance progressive management strategies for bovine babesiosis and cattle fever ticks. Research recommendations and other actionable activities reflect commitment among meeting participants to seize opportunities for collaborative efforts. Addressing these research gaps is expected to yield scientific knowledge benefitting the interdependent livestock industries of Mexico and the U.S. through its translation into enhanced biosecurity against the economic and animal health impacts of bovine babesiosis and cattle fever ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D. Esteve-Gasent
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Roger I. Rodríguez-Vivas
- Campus de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, FMVZ, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, km. 15.5 Carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, Mérida, Yucatán 97000, Mexico
- Correspondence:
| | - Raúl F. Medina
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Dee Ellis
- Institute for Infectious Animal Diseases, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.E.); (C.H.)
| | - Andy Schwartz
- Texas Animal Health Commission, Austin, TX 78758, USA;
| | - Baltazar Cortés Garcia
- Departamento de Rabia Paralítica y Garrapata, Dirección de Campañas Zoosanitarias, Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (SENASICA), Avenida Insurgentes Sur N° 489 Piso 9, Colonia Hipódromo, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de Mexico 06100, Mexico;
| | - Carrie Hunt
- Institute for Infectious Animal Diseases, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.E.); (C.H.)
| | - Mackenzie Tietjen
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA–ARS), Knipling–Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA; (M.T.); (A.A.P.d.L.)
| | - Denise Bonilla
- Veterinary Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service International Services, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA-APHIS), Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA;
| | - Don Thomas
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), Cattel Fever Tick Research Laboratory, Moore Air Base, Edinburg, TX 78541, USA;
| | - Linda L. Logan
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Hallie Hasel
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, (USDA-APHIS-VS), Austin, TX 78701, USA;
| | - Jesús A. Alvarez Martínez
- CENID-SAI, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales Agricolas y Pecuarias, Carr. Fed. Cuernavaca-Cuautla No. 8534, Col. Progreso. Jiutepec, Morelos 62390, Mexico;
| | - Jesús J. Hernández-Escareño
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, General Francisco Villa S/N, Hacienda del Canada, Ciudad General Escobedo, Nuevo León 66054, Mexico;
| | - Juan Mosqueda Gualito
- Immunology and Vaccines Laboratory, C. A. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Carretera a Chichimequillas, Ejido Bolaños, Queretaro Queretaro 76140, Mexico;
| | - Miguel A. Alonso Díaz
- Centro de Enseñanza, Investigación y Extensión en Ganadería Tropical, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Km. 5.5 Carretera Federal Tlapacoyan-Martínez de la Torre, Martínez de la Torre, Veracruz 93600, Mexico;
| | - Rodrigo Rosario-Cruz
- BioSA Research Lab., Natural Sciences College, Campus el ‘Shalako’ Las Petaquillas, Autonomous Guerrero State University, Chilpancingo, Guerrero 62105, Mexico;
| | - Noé Soberanes Céspedes
- Lapisa S.A. de C.V. Carretera La Piedad-Guadalajara Km 5.5, Col. Camelinas, La Piedad, Michoacán 59375, Mexico;
| | - Octavio Merino Charrez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Km. 5 Carretera Victoria-Mante, Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas 87000, Mexico;
| | - Tami Howard
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, (USDA-APHIS-VS), Field Operations, Southern Border Ports, Albuquerque, NM 87109, USA;
| | - Victoria M. Chávez Niño
- United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, International Services, (USDA-APHIS-IS), Mexico, Sierra Nevada 115, Col. Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
| | - Adalberto A. Pérez de León
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA–ARS), Knipling–Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, Kerrville, TX 78028, USA; (M.T.); (A.A.P.d.L.)
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16
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Wang HH, Grant WE, Teel PD, Lohmeyer KH, A Pérez de León A. Enhanced biosurveillance of high-consequence invasive pests: southern cattle fever ticks, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, on livestock and wildlife. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:487. [PMID: 32967722 PMCID: PMC7513513 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Some tick species are invasive and of high consequence to public and veterinary health. Socioeconomic development of rural parts of the USA was enabled partly through the eradication by 1943 of cattle fever ticks (CFT, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus and R. (B.) microplus). The southern cattle fever ticks (SCFT, R. (B.) microplus) remain a real and present threat to the USA animal agriculture because they are established in Mexico. Livestock-wildlife interactions in the Permanent Quarantine Zone (PQZ) established by the century-old Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Programme (CFTEP) in south Texas endanger its operations. Methods We describe a spatially-explicit, individual-based model that simulates interactions between cattle, white-tailed deer (WTD, Odocoileus virginianus), and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) to assess the risk for SCFT infestations across the pathogenic landscape in the PQZ and beyond. We also investigate the potential role of nilgai in sustaining SCFT populations by simulating various hypothetical infestation and eradication scenarios. Results All infestation scenarios resulted in a phase transition from a relatively small proportion of the ranch infested to almost the entire ranch infested coinciding with the typical period of autumn increases in off-host tick larvae. Results of eradication scenarios suggest that elimination of all on-host ticks on cattle, WTD, or nilgai would have virtually no effect on the proportion of the ranch infested or on the proportions of different tick habitat types infested; the entire ranch would remain infested. If all on-host ticks were eliminated on cattle and WTD, WTD and nilgai, or cattle and nilgai, the proportions of the ranch infested occasionally would drop to 0.6, 0.6 and 0.2, respectively. Differences in proportions of the ranch infested from year to year were due to primarily to differences in winter weather conditions, whereas infestation differences among tick habitat types were due primarily to habitat use preferences of hosts. Conclusions Infestations in nilgai augment SCFT refugia enabled by WTD and promote pest persistence across the landscape and cattle parasitism. Our study documented the utility of enhanced biosurveillance using simulation tools to mitigate risk and enhance operations of area-wide tick management programmes like the CFTEP through integrated tactics for SCFT suppression.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Hsuan Wang
- Ecological Systems Laboratory, Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - William E Grant
- Ecological Systems Laboratory, Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Pete D Teel
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kimberly H Lohmeyer
- United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
| | - Adalberto A Pérez de León
- United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, Kerrville, TX, 78028, USA
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Osbrink WLA, Showler AT, Abrigo V, Pérez de León AA. Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) Larvae Collected From Vegetation in the Coastal Wildlife Corridor of Southern Texas and Research Solutions for Integrated Eradication. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1305-1309. [PMID: 31971591 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The potential for reinvasion of the United States by cattle fever ticks, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus and Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini), which remain established in Mexico, threatens the viability of the domestic livestock industry because these ticks vector the causal agents (Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina) of bovine babesiosis. The Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program safeguards the health of the national cattle herd preventing the reemergence of bovine babesiosis by keeping the United States free of cattle fever ticks. Here, the collection of free-living southern cattle tick, R. microplus, larvae by sweeping flannel flags over vegetation in the wildlife corridor of Cameron and Willacy Counties, TX, is reported. Finding R. microplus larvae on vegetation complements reports of infestations in wildlife hosts inhabiting the southern Texas coastal plains. Land uses and environmental conditions have changed since cattle fever ticks were eradicated from the United States by 1943. These changes complicate efforts by the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program to keep cattle in the United States free of the cattle fever tick disease vectors. Current scientific research on technologies that could be used for area-wide management of fever tick larvae in south Texas and how this could be applied to integrated eradication efforts are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weste L A Osbrink
- USDA-ARS-SPA Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX
| | - Allan T Showler
- USDA-ARS-SPA Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX
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Showler AT, Pérez de León A. Landscape Ecology of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) Outbreaks in the South Texas Coastal Plain Wildlife Corridor Including Man-Made Barriers. ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 49:546-552. [PMID: 32338280 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvaa038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Landscape features and the ecology of suitable hosts influence the phenology of invasive tick species. The southern cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini) (Ixodida: Ixodidae), vectors causal agents of babesiosis in cattle and it infests exotic, feral nilgai, Bosephalus tragocamelus Pallas, and indigenous white-tailed deer, Odocoilus virginianus (Zimmerman), on the South Texas coastal plain wildlife corridor. The corridor extends from the Mexico border to cattle ranches extending north from inside Willacy Co. Outbreaks of R. microplus infesting cattle and nondomesticated ungulate hosts since 2014 in the wildlife corridor have focused attention on host infestation management and, by extension, dispersal. However, there is a knowledge gap on the ecology of R. microplus outbreaks in the South Texas coastal plain wildlife corridor. Ixodid distribution on the wildlife corridor is strongly influenced by habitat salinity. Saline habitats, which constitute ≈25% of the wildlife corridor, harbor few ixodids because of occasional salt toxicity from hypersaline wind tides and infrequent storm surges, and from efficient egg predation by mud flat fiddler crabs, Uca rapax (Smith). Rhipicephalus microplus infestations on nilgai were more prevalent in part of the corridor with mixed low salinity and saline areas than in an area that is more extensively saline. The different levels of R. microplus infestation suggest that man-made barriers have created isolated areas where the ecology of R. microplus outbreaks involve infested nilgai. The possible utility of man-made barriers for R. microplus eradication in the lower part of the South Texas coastal plain wildlife corridor is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan T Showler
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX
| | - Adalberto Pérez de León
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory and Veterinary Pest Genomics Center, 2700 Fredericksburg Road, Kerrville, TX
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Showler AT, Osbrink WLA, Abrigo V, Phillips PL. Relationships of Salinity, Relative Humidity, Mud Flat Fiddler Crabs, Ants, and Sea Ox-Eye Daisy With Ixodid Distribution and Egg Survival on the South Texas Coastal Plains. ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 48:733-746. [PMID: 30995292 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvz034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The South Texas coastal plains are mostly dominated by mesquite-thorn scrub from the Mexican border to cattle ranches extending north from Willacy Co. A wildlife corridor on the plains, composed of natural habitat, supports hosts of many ixodid species. Occasional wind (not lunar) tides and infrequent storm surges inundate coastal plain areas with hypersaline water from the Lower Laguna Madre, creating large areas of saline soil. Laboratory and field experiments and observations were used to identify relationships between salinity and other abiotic and biotic factors that influence ixodid distribution. Exposure of lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.), and Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini) eggs to hypersaline water is lethal. Although intermittent hypersaline flooding kills ixodid eggs, saline soil was not particularly toxic. When relative humidity is relatively low, desiccation causes high egg mortality on dry soil, regardless of salinity. Substantial year-round populations of mud flat fiddler crabs, Uca rapax (Smith) (Decopoda: Ocypodidae), occur on saline soil and eliminated ≈80% of A. americanum egg masses overnight. On saline and low-salinity soils predatory formicids, including the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta (Buren), were indifferent to the eggs. Saline soils were dominated by the sea ox-eye daisy, Borrichia frutescens (L.) DC, and its color allowed production of a GIS-based map. At least 24.4% of the wildlife corridor supports heavy stands of B. frutescens which is indicative of high U. rapax populations. Ixodid populations were negligible on heavy B. frutescens stands because of associated salt water toxicity, desiccation, and predation by U. rapax on eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan T Showler
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX
| | - Weste L A Osbrink
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX
| | | | - Pamela L Phillips
- USDA-ARS, Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, TX
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