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Ardente A, Toddes B, Schultz RL. Nutritional Considerations for Juvenile Exotic Companion Animals. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2024; 27:449-463. [PMID: 38030515 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric exotic companion animal nutrition is a broad topic, spanning small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Little research has been performed focusing on the juvenile life stages of these species because they are largely acquired by clients at the young adult stage. The information that does exist has been compiled by wildlife rehabilitators, commercial breeders, and/or exotic captive breeding programs, such as those that exist in zoologic facilities. In this article, we discuss natural history, feeding strategies, energy requirements, digestive physiology and diet digestibility, and key nutrients of concern as factors for determining an appropriate diet for pediatric exotic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Ardente
- Ardente Veterinary Nutrition LLC, 399 Southeast 90th Street, Ocala, FL 34480, USA.
| | - Barbara Toddes
- Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Trenholme HN. Sedation and Anesthesia in Exotic Animal Critical Care. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2023:S1094-9194(23)00021-X. [PMID: 37349182 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Sedation and anesthesia of exotic animals in inherently challenging, but often facilitates the best care for patients. Critical illness or injury adds on another layer of complexity to their management for obtaining diagnostics and providing treatments. This article serves to review some of the more recent literature of sedation and anesthesia within exotics practice, bringing to light some nuances and considerations for when those patients are critically ill or injured.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Nicole Trenholme
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 1008 West Hazelwood Drive, LAC 251, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
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He W, Yang L, Wang Q, Yu WJ, Liao S, Liu Y, Zhong B, Luo ZH, Wang Q. [Prevalence of Echinococcus infection in small mammals captured from Shiqu County, Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2020]. Zhongguo Xue Xi Chong Bing Fang Zhi Za Zhi 2023; 34:611-615. [PMID: 36642901 DOI: 10.16250/j.32.1374.2022089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of Echinococcus infection in small mammals in Shiqu County, Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2020, so as to provide insights into echinococcosis control in Shiqu County. METHODS One setting with frequent activity of small mammals was sampled as the survey site from each of 9 townships where human alveolar echinococcosis was hyperendemic, in Shiqu County, Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2020. Two quadrats measuring 50 m × 50 m were assigned in each survey site during the period between July and August from 2015 to 2020 to capture all small mammals in quadrats, and the species of small mammals were identified by morphological characteristics. All captured small mammals were dissected in the field and Echinococcus infection was identified by visual examinations. The affected organs of Echinococcus - infected small mammals were collected, and Echinococcus infection was detected using PCR assay, with Echinococcus species characterized. The prevalence of Echinococcus infection was calculated in small mammals, and the trends in the prevalence of Echinococcus infection were analyzed during the period from 2015 to 2020. In addition, the prevalence of Echinococcus infection was compared in small mammals using visual examinations and PCR assay. RESULTS A total of 2 692 small mammals were captured in the survey sites of Shiqu County from 2015 to 2020, and morphology characterized 1 360 Microtus fuscus (50.52%) and 1 332 Plateau pika (49.48%). The prevalence rates of Echinococcus infection were 35.63%, 19.16%, 21.41%, 8.40%, 7.68% and 4.44% by visual examinations and 18.96%, 5.36%, 5.61%, 4.58%, 3.30% and 0.37% by PCR assay in small mammals in Shiqu County from 2015 to 2020, both showing a tendency towards a decline year by year (χ2 = 215.024 and 117.045, both P values < 0.001). The prevalence of Echinococcus infection was significantly higher in small mammals by visual examinations than by PCR assay during the period from 2015 to 2020 except in 2018 (χ2= 33.597, 21.815, 51.373, 17.268 and 9.537, all P values < 0.01). PCR assay detected a reduction in the prevalence of E. multilocularis infection from 10.21% to 0.37% and a reduction in the prevalence of E. shiquicus infection from 8.75% to 0 in small mammals in Shiqu County from 2015 to 2020, both appearing a tendency towards a decline year by year (χ2 = 117.045 and 43.436, both P values < 0.001). In addition, the prevalence of E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus infections reduced from 15.19% to 0.45% and from 8.23% to 0 in M. fuscus, and the prevalence of E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus infections reduced from 7.76% to 0 and from 9.01% to 0 in P. pika in Shiqu County from 2015 to 2020. CONCLUSIONS M. fuscus and P. pika were dominant species of small mammals in Shiqu County, Sichuan Province from 2015 to 2020, and E. multilocularis infection was mainly found in M. fuscus and E. shiquicus infection mainly found in P. pika. The prevalence of Echinococcus infection appeared a tendency towards a decline in both M. fuscus and P. pika year by year during the period from 2015 to 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- W He
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - L Yang
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Q Wang
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - W J Yu
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - S Liao
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Y Liu
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - B Zhong
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Z H Luo
- Tibet Autonomous Region Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - Q Wang
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Sichuan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Pretention, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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Krügel M, Król N, Kempf VAJ, Pfeffer M, Obiegala A. Emerging rodent-associated Bartonella: a threat for human health? Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:113. [PMID: 35361285 PMCID: PMC8969336 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05162-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Species of the genus Bartonella are facultative intracellular alphaproteobacteria with zoonotic potential. Bartonella infections in humans range from mild with unspecific symptoms to life threatening, and can be transmitted via arthropod vectors or through direct contact with infected hosts, although the latter mode of transmission is rare. Among the small mammals that harbour Bartonella spp., rodents are the most speciose group and harbour the highest diversity of these parasites. Human–rodent interactions are not unlikely as many rodent species live in proximity to humans. However, a surprisingly low number of clinical cases of bartonellosis related to rodent-associated Bartonella spp. have thus far been recorded in humans. Methods The main purpose of this review is to determine explanatory factors for this unexpected finding, by taking a closer look at published clinical cases of bartonellosis connected with rodent-associated Bartonella species, some of which have been newly described in recent years. Thus, another focus of this review are these recently proposed species. Conclusions Worldwide, only 24 cases of bartonellosis caused by rodent-associated bartonellae have been reported in humans. Possible reasons for this low number of cases in comparison to the high prevalences of Bartonella in small mammal species are (i) a lack of awareness amongst physicians of Bartonella infections in humans in general, and especially those caused by rodent-associated bartonellae; and (ii) a frequent lack of the sophisticated equipment required for the confirmation of Bartonella infections in laboratories that undertake routine diagnostic testing. As regards recently described Bartonella spp., there are presently 14 rodent-associated Candidatus taxa. In contrast to species which have been taxonomically classified, there is no official process for the review of proposed Candidatus species and their names before they are published. This had led to the use of malformed names that are not based on the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes. Researchers are thus encouraged to propose Candidatus names to the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes for approval before publishing them, and only to propose new species of Bartonella when the relevant datasets allow them to be clearly differentiated from known species and subspecies. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05162-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Krügel
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nina Król
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Volkhard A J Kempf
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,National Consiliary Laboratory for Bartonella, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martin Pfeffer
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anna Obiegala
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 1, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
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Bullen LE. Nutrition for Pocket Pets (Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents). Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2021; 51:583-604. [PMID: 33773647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Although the companion animal population is predominantly canine and feline, the popularity of domesticated small mammals (or pocket pets) has been steadily increasing. As a result, ferrets, rabbits, and rodents can be expected to present for veterinary evaluation. Many common medical problems in pocket pets are often associated with poor husbandry and/or inappropriate nutrition and are thus responsive to nutritional therapies. Although this article touches on minor background information and husbandry, the primary foci are the basic nutritional needs of, and common nutrition-responsive diseases in, pocket pets. Detailed husbandry needs are beyond the scope of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey E Bullen
- Clinical Nutrition Service, Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas, 6405 Tryon Road Suite 100, Cary, NC 27518, USA; Private Veterinary Nutrition Consultant, Apex, NC 27502, USA.
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Wei CY, Wang XM, Wang ZS, Wang ZH, Guan ZZ, Zhang LH, Dou XF, Wang H. High prevalence of Babesia microti in small mammals in Beijing. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:155. [PMID: 33176879 PMCID: PMC7661193 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00775-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic infectious disease. Babesia microti is responsible for most cases of human babesiosis globally. It is important to investigate the prevalence of B. microti in the mammalian host population of a specific region in order to elucidate mechanisms of pathogen transmission and to define geographic areas where humans face the greatest risk of exposure. The aim of this study is to understand the prevalence and genotypes of B. microti in the small mammals that are found in Beijing, China. METHODS We trapped small mammals from all of the 16 urban, suburban, and outer suburban districts of Beijing during the years 2014, 2017 and 2018. Genomic DNA was extracted from the heart tissues individually and the Babesia 18S rRNA gene was detected by PCR. The genotypes of B. microti were identified based on sequence alignments and phylogenetic analysis. The morphology of the parasites was observed under light microscopy. The risk factors were analyzed statistically based on both univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 1391 small mammals were collected. Positive infection of B. microti was detected in 12.1% (168/1391) of small mammals from 15 out of the 16 districts. Both Kobe-type and U.S.-type B. microti, accounting for 9.5% and 2.7%, respectively, were identified. Classic diverse morphologic forms of B. microti were observed. Specific types of ecological habitats including shrub areas, broad-leaved forest, and cropland were revealed to be risk factors associated with B. microti infection. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the wide prevalence of B. microti infection in eight species of small mammals in Beijing, with Kobe-type more prevalent than U.S.-type. This study provides fundamental information for the development of informed prevention and control measures by public health authorities; the data gathered indicates a need for further monitoring of both clinical diseases in individuals presenting with babesiosis-like symptoms, as well as the infection status of ticks in high risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Wang
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Zhen-Sheng Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China.,Department of Immunology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Zeng-Zhi Guan
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Lian-Hui Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Xiang-Feng Dou
- Institute for Infectious Disease and Endemic Disease Control, Beijing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control (Beijing Center for Preventive Medical Research), No. 16 Hepingli Middle Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100013, China.
| | - Heng Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5# Dong Dan San Tiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Abstract
Rodent populations in arid grasslands do not always track seed production, possibly due to high levels of plant litter. When natural disturbances are suppressed, litter accumulates becoming physically complex, causing rodents to harvest fewer seeds per equivalent time foraging. It also alters security from predation. Restoring natural disturbances may be an important element in conserving rodent communities. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of two levels of plant litter cover and seed densities on nocturnal rodent population characteristics in a semiarid grassland. Specifically, I hypothesized that kangaroo rats, pocket mice, grasshopper mice, and total rodents would be higher in the sparse plant litter treatment than dense litter, whereas deer mice would be lower in sparse plots. I further hypothesized that kangaroo rats and deer mice would be higher in the seed augmented treatment compared to the unseeded treatment. A prescribed fire removed litter in four of eight plots prior to sowing native seeds 1 year postfire into two burned and two unburned plots. Rodents were live-trapped during spring and fall 1 year. Sparse litter treatment had higher total rodent abundance, biomass, and frequency of offspring compared to dense plots indicating use of stored seeds. Banner-tailed kangaroo rats had higher abundance, implying reduced predation risk. Pocket mice body mass was greater in dense plots. After winter, seeded plots had higher kangaroo rat body mass and grasshopper mice abundance than unseeded, reflecting the use of stored seeds. These short term results demonstrate litter's physical complexity may be equivalent to seed pulses on the responses of nocturnal rodents. Managers might positively influence grassland rodents by providing a mosaic of varying levels of plant litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Nicolai
- Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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Ecke F, Benskin JP, Berglund ÅMM, de Wit CA, Engström E, Plassmann MM, Rodushkin I, Sörlin D, Hörnfeldt B. Spatio-temporal variation of metals and organic contaminants in bank voles (Myodes glareolus). Sci Total Environ 2020; 713:136353. [PMID: 31955071 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.136353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contamination with metals and organic compounds is of increasing concern for ecosystem and human health. Still, our knowledge about spatial distribution, temporal changes and ecotoxicological fate of metals and organic contaminants in wildlife is limited. We studied concentrations of 69 elements and 50 organic compounds in 300 bank voles (Myodes glareolus), Europe's most common mammal, sampled in spring and autumn 2017-2018 in five monitoring areas, representing three biogeographic regions. In addition, we compared measured concentrations with previous results from bank voles sampled within the same areas in 1995-1997 and 2001. In general, our results show regional differences, but no consistent patterns among contaminants and study areas. The exception was for the lowest concentrations of organic contaminants (e.g. perfluorooctane sulfonate, PFOS), which were generally found in the northern Swedish mountain area. Concentrations of metals and organic contaminants in adults varied seasonally with most organic contaminants being higher in spring; likely induced by diet shifts but potentially also related to age differences. In addition, metal concentrations varied between organs (liver vs. kidney), age classes (juveniles vs. adults; generally higher in adults) as well as between males and females. Concentrations of chromium and nickel in kidney and liver in the northernmost mountain area were lower in 2017-2018 than in 1995-1997 and in three of four areas, lead concentrations were lower in 2017-2018 than in 2001. Current metal concentrations (except mercury) are not expected to negatively affect the voles. Concentrations of hexachlorobenzene displayed highest concentrations in 2001 in the mountains, while it was close to detection limit in 2017-2018. Likewise, PFOS concentrations decreased in the mountains and in south-central lowland forests between 2001 and 2017-2018. Our results suggest that season, age class and sex need to be considered when designing and interpreting results from monitoring programs targeting inorganic and organic contaminants in wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Ecke
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-901 83 Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Jonathan P Benskin
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åsa M M Berglund
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Cynthia A de Wit
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emma Engström
- ALS Scandinavia AB, Aurorum 10, SE-977 75 Luleå, Sweden; Division of Geosciences, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Merle M Plassmann
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ilia Rodushkin
- ALS Scandinavia AB, Aurorum 10, SE-977 75 Luleå, Sweden; Division of Geosciences, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Dieke Sörlin
- ALS Scandinavia AB, Aurorum 10, SE-977 75 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Birger Hörnfeldt
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-901 83 Umeå, Sweden
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Mynhardt S, Bennett NC, Bloomer P. New insights from RADseq data on differentiation in the Hottentot golden mole species complex from South Africa. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2019; 143:106667. [PMID: 31676418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2019.106667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Golden moles (Family Chrysochloridae) are small subterranean mammals, endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, and many of the 21 species are listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List. Most species have highly restricted ranges; however two species, the Hottentot golden mole (Amblysomus hottentotus) and the Cape golden mole (Chrysochloris asiatica) have relatively wide ranges. We recently uncovered cryptic diversity within A. hottentotus, through a phylogeographic analysis of this taxon using two mitochondrial gene regions and a nuclear intron. To further investigate this cryptic diversity, we generated nuclear SNP data from across the genome of A. hottentotus, by means of double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADSeq), and mapped reads to the Cape golden mole genome. We conducted a phylogenetic analysis and investigated population differentiation. Our results support the distinctiveness of A. h. meesteri. Furthermore, we provide evidence from nuclear SNPs in support of our previous finding that Central coastal samples represent a unique cryptic lineage that is highly divergent from A. h. pondoliae farther south. Although mtDNA suggests that Umtata may represent a unique lineage sister to A. h. longiceps, mito-nuclear discordance from our RADseq data indicate that these samples may instead be closer to A. h. pondoliae, and therefore may not represent a distinct lineage. We stress the importance of recognizing that understudied populations, such as that of Umtata, may represent populations or ESUs under threat and in need of conservation attention. We present a high-quality filtered SNP dataset, comprising thousands of SNPs, which may serve as a useful resource for future golden mole studies. We have thus added to the growing body of research demonstrating the power and utility of RADseq to investigate population differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Mynhardt
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.
| | - Nigel C Bennett
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.
| | - Paulette Bloomer
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution Programme, Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa.
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10
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Hefty KL, Stewart KM. Flexible resource use strategies of a central-place forager experiencing dynamic risk and opportunity. Mov Ecol 2019; 7:23. [PMID: 31388428 PMCID: PMC6676571 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-019-0168-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Movement decisions made in space and time define how wildlife meet competing extrinsic and intrinsic demands to maximize fitness. Differential selection of resource patches provides one example of how to measure how animals balance conflicting demands. We hypothesized that individual spatial selection of patch types between dynamic seasons would signify flexible strategies used to minimize risk and optimize foraging efforts. METHODS We used data collected from GPS loggers on golden-mantled ground squirrels (Callospermophilus lateralis) to model selection or avoidance of resources in two seasons of seed availability and one season in which no seeds were available. Movement decisions were measured in short-term discrete time intervals using high resolution location data. Selection or avoidance of specific resource features that entail fitness consequences were then assessed using resource selection functions. RESULTS Seasonality of food availability, food type, and spatial distribution of food largely influenced how individuals selected resources within their home ranges. Overall, when seeds were available, individuals mediated risks of predation and loss of food by using patches closer to refuge and selected intermediate distances to the burrow. When food was not available, individuals minimized exposure to heightened risk by staying close to the burrow and avoiding riskier patch types. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that individuals used flexible, dynamic strategies to select habitat patches which may allow them to balance conflicting seasonal demands. Advances in GPS technology for research of small mammals provide greater insight into how prey species in high risk environments differentially use resources to minimize risk and maintain fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira L. Hefty
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, 1664 N. Virginia St. Reno, Reno, NV 89557 USA
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, University of Arizona, 1064 East Lowell Street, Tucson, AZ 85719 USA
| | - Kelley M. Stewart
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, 1664 N. Virginia St. Mail Stop 186, Reno, NV 89557 USA
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11
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Abstract
Orthopedic disorders are a common clinical presentation for the exotic clinician. Before treating the fracture it is vital to stabilize the patient. Small exotic mammals are characterized by relatively thinner bones, adding to the difficulty the small size already represents. A combination of conservative and surgical treatment options are available. The principles of orthopedic surgery and ideas behind the treatment options remain the same as for small mammals, but not all techniques can be directly extrapolated. Historically, the tie-in fixator has been the preferred surgical choice whenever feasible, but further development in bone plates represents a promising advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutsugu Miwa
- Miwa Exotic Animal Hospital, 1-25-5 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0003A, Japan; Laboratories of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Daniel Calvo Carrasco
- Great Western Exotics, Vets Now Swindon, Swindon, UK; Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT), Newgrounds Ln, Gloucestershire, England, Gloucester GL2 7BT, United Kingdom.
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12
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Schirmer A, Herde A, Eccard JA, Dammhahn M. Individuals in space: personality-dependent space use, movement and microhabitat use facilitate individual spatial niche specialization. Oecologia 2019; 189:647-660. [PMID: 30826867 PMCID: PMC6418052 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-019-04365-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Personality-dependent space use and movement might be crucially influencing ecological interactions, giving way to individual niche specialization. This new approach challenges classical niche theory with potentially great ecological consequences, but so far has only scarce empirical support. Here, we investigated if and how consistent inter-individual differences in behavior predict space use and movement patterns in free-ranging bank voles (Myodes glareolus) and thereby contribute to individual niche specialization. Individuals were captured and marked from three different subpopulations in North-East Germany. Inter-individual differences in boldness and exploration were quantified via repeated standardized tests directly in the field after capture. Subsequently, space use and movement patterns of a representative sample of the behavioral variation (n = 21 individuals) were monitored via automated VHF telemetry for a period of four days, yielding on average 384 locations per individual. Bolder individuals occupied larger home ranges and core areas (estimated via kernel density analyses), moved longer distances, spatially overlapped with fewer conspecifics and preferred different microhabitats based on vegetation cover compared to shyer individuals. We found evidence for personality-dependent space use, movement, and occupation of individual spatial niches in bank voles. Thus, besides dietary niche specialization also spatial dimensions of ecological niches vary among individuals within populations, which may have important consequences for ecological interactions within- and between species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Schirmer
- Animal Ecology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 1, 14469, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Antje Herde
- Plant Ecology and Nature Conservation, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Animal Behaviour, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Jana A Eccard
- Animal Ecology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 1, 14469, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Melanie Dammhahn
- Animal Ecology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 1, 14469, Potsdam, Germany
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13
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Abstract
With the growing popularity in the ownership of nontraditional species, there is a growing need for veterinarians to be able to provide out-of-clinic health assessments on privately owned exotic species. Ambulatory anesthesia is often required for diagnostic and surgical procedures in remote or nonhospital settings. Anesthesia for diagnostic procedures is commonly used to ensure the safety of personnel and exotic veterinary patients, particularly when there is an inability to transport the animal to the clinic. The challenges of exotic animal anesthesia are further compounded by the logistical challenges of performing anesthesia outside of the hospital setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Strahl-Heldreth
- University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 1008 W Hazelwood Drive, Urbana, IL 61821, USA
| | - Sathya K Chinnadurai
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA.
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14
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Abstract
The use of a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist slow-release implant (GnRH A-SRI) has become increasingly popular as an alternative for surgical contraception in many species. Although these implants have proven to be very effective in some species (eg, ferrets, rats, chicken, psittacines, and iguanas), they have been found less effective in other species (eg, male guinea pigs and rabbits, veiled chameleons, slider turtles, and leopard geckos). This review provides an overview of the available literature on the effects of GnRH A-SRIs in companion exotic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico J Schoemaker
- Division of Zoological Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, Utrecht 3584 CM, Netherlands.
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15
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Wang X, Liu J, Zuo Q, Mu Z, Weng X, Sun X, Wang J, Boufana B, Craig PS, Giraudoux P, Raoul F, Wang Z. Echinococcus multilocularis and Echinococcus shiquicus in a small mammal community on the eastern Tibetan Plateau: host species composition, molecular prevalence, and epidemiological implications. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:302. [PMID: 29769131 PMCID: PMC5956848 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2873-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The eastern part of the Tibetan Plateau is now recognized as an endemic region with the highest reported human infection rates in the world of human alveolar echinococcosis (AE) caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. Existing epidemiological studies on AE have mainly focused on the synanthropic environment, while basic parasitological and ecological aspects in wildlife host species remain largely unknown, especially for small mammal hosts. Therefore, we examined small mammal host species composition, occurrence, and the prevalence of both E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus in Shiqu County (Sichuan Province, China), eastern Tibetan Plateau. Results In total, 346 small mammals from five rodent and one pika species were trapped from four randomly set 0.25 ha square plots. Two vole species, Lasiopodomys fuscus (n = 144) and Microtus limnophilus (n = 44), and the plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) (n = 135), were the three most-dominant species trapped. Although protoscoleces of E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus were only observed in L. fuscus and O. curzoniae, respectively, cox1 and nad1 gene DNA of E. shiquicus was detected in all the small mammal species except for Neodon irene, whereas E. multilocularis was detected in the three most-dominant species. The overall molecular prevalence of Echinococcus species was 5.8 (95% CI: 3.3–8.2%) ~ 10.7% (95% CI: 7.4–14.0%) (the conservative prevalence to the maximum prevalence with 95% CI in parentheses), whereas for E. multilocularis it was 4.3 (95% CI: 2.2–6.5%) ~ 6.7% (95% CI: 4.0–9.3%), and 1.5 (95% CI: 0.2–2.7%) ~ 4.1% (95% CI: 2.0–6.1%) for E. shiquicus. The prevalence of both E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus, was significantly higher in rodents (mainly voles) than in pikas. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that Echinococcus haplotypes of cox1 from small mammal hosts were actively involved in the sylvatic and anthropogenic transmission cycles of E. multilocularis in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. Conclusions In contrast to previous studies, the current results indicated that rodent species, rather than pikas, are probably more important natural intermediate hosts of E. multilocularis and E. shiquicus in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. Thus, understanding interspecific dynamics between rodents and pikas is essential to studies of the echinococcosis transmission mechanism and human echinococcosis prevention in local communities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2873-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayu Liu
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingqiu Zuo
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Mu
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Weng
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohui Sun
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junyao Wang
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Belgees Boufana
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immuno-Mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Philip S Craig
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Patrick Giraudoux
- Chrono-Environment Lab, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and CNRS, Besançon, France
| | - Francis Raoul
- Chrono-Environment Lab, University of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and CNRS, Besançon, France
| | - Zhenghuan Wang
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Otero-Jiménez B, Vandermeer JH, Tucker PK. Effect of coffee agriculture management on the population structure of a forest dwelling rodent ( Heteromys desmarestianus goldmani). CONSERV GENET 2018; 19:495-499. [PMID: 29606927 PMCID: PMC5862946 DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-1016-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Most of the natural habitat in tropical regions exists as scattered fragments embedded in a matrix of different agricultural uses. As a result of this agricultural expansion, habitat loss and fragmentation have become the main drivers of biodiversity loss. Understanding the long-term effects of agricultural management on populations is of great importance for the development of successful conservation strategies. Our study uses genetic data to determine the effect of agricultural management practices on the population structure of a common tropical forest rodent (Heteromys desmarestianus goldmani). We sampled 136 individuals from one forest fragment and three coffee farms representing varying degrees of management intensity in southern Mexico. Using microsatellite markers, we evaluated the genetic structure of H. d. goldmani in the study area. Our results show higher genetic differentiation and lower connectivity for individuals within high and medium intensity coffee farms than for those near and within the forest fragments. Our results suggest that the population structure observed is driven by landscape characteristics other than distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Otero-Jiménez
- 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, 2019 Kraus Nat. Sci. Bldg., 830 North University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048 USA.,2Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, 1109 Geddes Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - John H Vandermeer
- 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, 2019 Kraus Nat. Sci. Bldg., 830 North University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048 USA
| | - Priscilla K Tucker
- 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, 2019 Kraus Nat. Sci. Bldg., 830 North University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048 USA.,2Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, 1109 Geddes Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
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17
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Tavshunsky I, Eggert SL, Mitchell CPJ. Accumulation of Methylmercury in Invertebrates and Masked Shrews (Sorex cinereus) at an Upland Forest-Peatland Interface in Northern Minnesota, USA. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2017; 99:673-678. [PMID: 29063129 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-017-2198-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) methylation is often elevated at the terrestrial-peatland interface, but methylmercury (MeHg) production at this "hot spot" has not been linked with in situ biotic accumulation. We examined total Hg and MeHg levels in peat, invertebrates and tissues of the insectivore Sorex cinereus (masked shrew), inhabiting a terrestrial-peatland ecotone in northern Minnesota, USA. Mean MeHg concentrations in S. cinereus (71 ng g-1) fell between concentrations measured in spiders (mean 70-140 ng g-1), and ground beetles and millipedes (mean 29-42 ng g-1). Methylmercury concentrations in S. cinereus increased with age and differed among tissues, with highest concentrations in kidneys and muscle, followed by liver and brain. Nearly all Hg in S. cinereus was in the methylated form. Overall, the high proportional accumulation of MeHg in peat at the site (3.5% total Hg as MeHg) did not lead to particularly elevated concentrations in invertebrates or shrews, which are below values considered a toxicological risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilana Tavshunsky
- Department of Physical & Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Susan L Eggert
- United States Forest Service, Northern Research Station, 1831 Hwy 169 E, Grand Rapids, MN, 55744, USA
| | - Carl P J Mitchell
- Department of Physical & Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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18
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Sharp Bowman TR, McMillan BR, St Clair SB. Rodent herbivory differentially affects mortality rates of 14 native plant species with contrasting life history and growth form traits. Oecologia 2017; 185:465-473. [PMID: 28887653 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-017-3944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ecosystems are transformed by changes in disturbance regimes including wildfire and herbivory. Rodent consumers can have strong top-down effects on plant community assembly through seed predation, but their impacts on post-germination seedling establishment via seedling herbivory need better characterization, particularly in deserts. To test the legacy effects of fire history, and native rodent consumers on seedling establishment, we evaluated factorial combinations of experimental exclusion of rodents and fire history (burned vs. unburned) on seedling survival of 14 native plant species that vary in their life history strategies and growth form in the Mojave Desert. Seedlings were placed into the experimental plots, and seedling survival was monitored daily for 8 days. The legacy effects of fire history had minimal effects on seedling survival, but rodent exclusion, year, and their interaction were strongly significant. Seedling survival rates were nearly sixfold greater in rodent exclusion plots compared to control plots in 2012 (53 vs. 9%) and 17-fold greater in 2013 (17 vs. 1%). The dramatic increase in seedling mortality from 2012 to 2013 was likely driven by an increase in rodent abundance and an outbreak of grasshoppers that appears to have intensified the rodent effect. There was strong variability in plant species survival in response to rodent herbivory with annual plants and forb species showing lower survival than perennial plants and shrub species. These results indicate that rodent consumers can strongly regulate seedling survival of native plant species with potentially strong regulatory effects on plant community development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brock R McMillan
- Department of Plant and Wildlife Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Samuel B St Clair
- Department of Plant and Wildlife Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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19
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Abstract
The importance of appropriate recognition, assessment, and treatment of pain in all veterinary species, including exotic animals, cannot be overstated. Although the assessment of pain perception in nondomestic species is still in its infancy, this does not preclude appropriate analgesic management in these species. Although analgesic drug selection is often based on data extrapolated from similar species, as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of many drugs can vary greatly between species, an evidence-based approach to analgesic therapy should be used whenever possible. This article provides an overview of recent advances in evidence-based analgesic management in companion exotic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Balko
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA.
| | - Sathya K Chinnadurai
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
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20
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Abstract
Anesthesia and sedation of pet nondomestic species are often necessary for both invasive and noninvasive procedures. Even minimally invasive procedures can be stressful for small prey species that are not domesticated or acclimated to human contact and restraint. Recent advancements in evidence-based practice will continue to improve the field based on scientifically sound best practices and rely less on anecdotal recommendations. This article focuses on new scientific literature that has been published in the past 5 years. For ease of reading, the authors divide the article to highlight advances in anesthetic pharmacology and discoveries in anesthetic physiology and monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Balko
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA.
| | - Sathya K Chinnadurai
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
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21
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Bieber C, Cornils JS, Hoelzl F, Giroud S, Ruf T. The costs of locomotor activity? Maximum body temperatures and the use of torpor during the active season in edible dormice. J Comp Physiol B 2017; 187:803-814. [PMID: 28321493 PMCID: PMC5486539 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-017-1080-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Measuring T b during the active season can provide information about the timing of reproduction and the use of short bouts of torpor and may be used as a proxy for the locomotor activity of animals (i.e., maximum T b). This kind of information is especially important to understand life-history strategies and energetic costs and demands in hibernating mammals. We investigated T b throughout the active season in edible dormice (Glis glis), since they (i) have an expensive arboreal life-style, (ii) are known to show short bouts of torpor, and (iii) are adapted to pulsed resources (mast of beech trees). We show here for the first time that maximum T b's in free-living active dormice (during the night) increase regularly and for up to 8 h above 40 °C, which corresponds to slight hyperthermia, probably due to locomotor activity. The highest weekly mean maximum T b was recorded 1 week prior to hibernation (40.45 ± 0.07 °C). At the beginning of the active season and immediately prior to hibernation, the mean maximum T b's were lower. The time dormice spent at T b above 40 °C varied between sexes, depending on mast conditions. The date of parturition could be determined by a sudden increase in mean T b (plus 0.49 ± 0.04 °C). The occurrence of short torpor bouts (<24 h) was strongly affected by the mast situation with much higher torpor frequencies in mast-failure years. Our data suggest that locomotor activity is strongly affected by environmental conditions, and that sexes respond differently to these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bieber
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jessica S Cornils
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Hoelzl
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sylvain Giroud
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Ruf
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1, 1160, Vienna, Austria
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22
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Abstract
Radiation therapy is a treatment modality for cancer that is widely used in veterinary medicine, although its use in exotic animal practice has remained limited. However, there are case reports and case series of treating birds, small mammals, and reptiles for a variety of cancers with radiotherapy with varied outcomes. In this article the basic principles of radiation therapy are reviewed and the literature regarding its use in exotic animal practice is summarized. Side effects of radiotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Kent
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 2112 Tupper Hall, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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23
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Abstract
Wildlife patients often present as emergencies. For veterinarians who do not typically treat wildlife, it is important to be able to stabilize and determine the underlying cause of the animal's signs. This article discusses initial assessment, stabilization, and treatment of common emergency presentations in wild birds, reptiles, and mammals.
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24
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Geduhn A, Esther A, Schenke D, Gabriel D, Jacob J. Prey composition modulates exposure risk to anticoagulant rodenticides in a sentinel predator, the barn owl. Sci Total Environ 2016; 544:150-7. [PMID: 26657360 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.11.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, small rodents are main prey items for many mammalian and avian predators. Some rodent species have pest potential and are managed with anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs). ARs are consumed by target and non-target small mammals and can lead to secondary exposure of predators. The development of appropriate risk mitigation strategies is important and requires detailed knowledge of AR residue pathways. From July 2011 to October 2013 we collected 2397 regurgitated barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets to analyze diet composition of owls on livestock farms in western Germany. 256 of them were fresh pellets that were collected during brodifacoum baiting. Fresh pellets and 742 liver samples of small mammals that were trapped during baiting in the same area were analyzed for residues of ARs. We calculated exposure risk of barn owls to ARs by comparing seasonal diet composition of owls with AR residue patterns in prey species. Risk was highest in autumn, when barn owls increasingly preyed on Apodemus that regularly showed AR residues, sometimes at high concentrations. The major prey species (Microtus spp.) that was consumed most frequently in summer had less potential to contribute to secondary poisoning of owls. There was no effect of AR application on prey composition. We rarely detected ARs in pellets (2 of 256 samples) but 13% of 38 prey individuals in barn owl nests were AR positive and substantiated the expected pathway. AR residues were present in 55% of 11 barn owl carcasses. Fluctuation in non-target small mammal abundance and differences in AR residue exposure patterns in prey species drives exposure risk for barn owls and probably other predators of small mammals. Exposure risk could be minimized through spatial and temporal adaption of AR applications (avoiding long baiting and non-target hot spots at farms) and through selective bait access for target animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Geduhn
- Julius Kühn Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Horticulture and Forests, Vertebrate Research, Toppheideweg 88, 48161 Münster, Germany; University of Münster, Institute of Landscape Ecology, Heisenbergstrasse 2, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Esther
- Julius Kühn Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Horticulture and Forests, Vertebrate Research, Toppheideweg 88, 48161 Münster, Germany
| | - Detlef Schenke
- Julius Kühn Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Ecological Chemistry, Plant Analysis and Stored Product Protection, Königin-Luise-Strasse 19, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Doreen Gabriel
- Julius Kühn Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Crop and Soil Science, Bundesallee 50, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Jens Jacob
- Julius Kühn Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Horticulture and Forests, Vertebrate Research, Toppheideweg 88, 48161 Münster, Germany
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25
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Abstract
It is important that veterinarians treating exotic companion mammals stay abreast of the latest developments relating to medications and drug delivery approaches for safety, efficacy and welfare issues. Sustained release formulations of commonly used drugs as well as newer routes for administration of therapeutic agents allow the veterinarian treating exotic companion mammals to reduce the stress associated with drug administration. Interactions can occur between vehicle and drugs when formulations are compounded, therefore research studies are warranted regarding potential problems associated with these formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle G Hawkins
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, 2108 Tupper Hall, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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26
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Kubota Y, Takahashi H, Watanabe Y, Fuma S, Kawaguchi I, Aoki M, Kubota M, Furuhata Y, Shigemura Y, Yamada F, Ishikawa T, Obara S, Yoshida S. Estimation of absorbed radiation dose rates in wild rodents inhabiting a site severely contaminated by the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant accident. J Environ Radioact 2015; 142:124-131. [PMID: 25666988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The dose rates of radiation absorbed by wild rodents inhabiting a site severely contaminated by the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident were estimated. The large Japanese field mouse (Apodemus speciosus), also called the wood mouse, was the major rodent species captured in the sampling area, although other species of rodents, such as small field mice (Apodemus argenteus) and Japanese grass voles (Microtus montebelli), were also collected. The external exposure of rodents calculated from the activity concentrations of radiocesium ((134)Cs and (137)Cs) in litter and soil samples using the ERICA (Environmental Risk from Ionizing Contaminants: Assessment and Management) tool under the assumption that radionuclides existed as the infinite plane isotropic source was almost the same as those measured directly with glass dosimeters embedded in rodent abdomens. Our findings suggest that the ERICA tool is useful for estimating external dose rates to small animals inhabiting forest floors; however, the estimated dose rates showed large standard deviations. This could be an indication of the inhomogeneous distribution of radionuclides in the sampled litter and soil. There was a 50-fold difference between minimum and maximum whole-body activity concentrations measured in rodents at the time of capture. The radionuclides retained in rodents after capture decreased exponentially over time. Regression equations indicated that the biological half-life of radiocesium after capture was 3.31 d. At the time of capture, the lowest activity concentration was measured in the lung and was approximately half of the highest concentration measured in the mixture of muscle and bone. The average internal absorbed dose rate was markedly smaller than the average external dose rate (<10% of the total absorbed dose rate). The average total absorbed dose rate to wild rodents inhabiting the sampling area was estimated to be approximately 52 μGy h(-1) (1.2 mGy d(-1)), even 3 years after the accident. This dose rate exceeds 0.1-1 mGy d(-1) derived consideration reference level for Reference rat proposed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Kubota
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Takahashi
- Tokyo Nuclear Services Co., Ltd., 1-3-5 Taito, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0016, Japan
| | - Yoshito Watanabe
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Shoichi Fuma
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Isao Kawaguchi
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Masanari Aoki
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Masahide Kubota
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Furuhata
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Yusaku Shigemura
- Japan NUS Co., Ltd., 7-5-25 Nishi-shinjyuku, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Fumio Yamada
- Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8687, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ishikawa
- Department of Technical Support and Development, Research, Development and Support Centre, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Obara
- Medical Radiation Exposure Project, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yoshida
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
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27
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Abstract
Seedling recruitment of two grasses (Arrhenatherum elatius and Festuca rubra) and two herbs (Centaurea nigra and Rumex acetosa) was measured in areas with and without rodents to which seeds of each species were sown at three seed densities (1000, 10,000 and 50,000 seeds m-2) in two seasons (spring and autumn 1995). Seed removal was measured for 10-day periods and the fate of seedlings was followed for 15 months after sowing. The proportion of seed removed ranged from 6 to 85% and increased with increasing seed density for each species. Rodents had no effect on seedling emergence or survival in the spring sowing. In the autumn sowing, rodents reduced seedling emergence of all four species sown at 1000 and 10,000 seeds m-2 but had no impact at 50,000 seeds m-2, presumably because of microsite limitation. We suggest the difference between spring and autumn arose because emergence was seed limited in autumn but microsite limited in spring; microsite availability was higher in autumn because a summer drought killed plants, reduced plant biomass and opened up the sward. Fifteen months after the autumn sowing, fewer A. elatius and C. nigra seedlings survived on plots exposed to rodents. This result reflected not only the reduced seedling emergence but also increased seedling mortality (seedling herbivory) in sites exposed to rodents. In contrast, F. rubra and R.acteosa showed density-dependent seedling survival which compensated for initial differences in seedling emergence, so that no effect of rodents remained after 15 months. The results suggest that rodent seed predation and seedling herbivory exert strong effects on seedling recruitment of A.elatius and C. nigra when recruitment conditions are favourable (conditions that lead to high microsite availability) and may contribute to both species being maintained at low densities in the grassland. The results also demonstrate that highly significant impacts of rodent seed predation at the seedling emergence stage can disappear by the time of plant maturation.
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