1
|
Tang KN, Adkesson MJ, Cárdenas-Alayza S, Adamovicz L, Deming AC, Wellehan JFX, Childress A, Cortes-Hinojosa G, Colegrove K, Langan JN, Allender MC. Otariid gammaherpesvirus 1 in South American fur seals (Arctocephalus australis) and a novel related herpesvirus in free-ranging South American sea lions (Otaria byronia): Prevalence and effects of age, sex, and sample type. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299404. [PMID: 38446776 PMCID: PMC10917305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Otariid gammaherpesvirus 1 (OtGHV1) is associated with high rates of urogenital carcinoma in free-ranging California sea lions (Zalophus californianus; CSL), and until recently was reported only in the Northern Hemisphere. The objective of this study was to survey free-ranging South American sea lions (Otaria byronia; SASL) and South American fur seals (Arctocephalus australis: SAFS) in Punta San Juan, Peru for OtGHV1 and to determine prevalence characteristics. Twenty-one percent (14/67) of urogenital swabs collected over three years (2011, 2014, 2015) from live pinnipeds of both species tested positive with a pan-herpesvirus conventional PCR. Sequencing of SAFS amplicons revealed 100% homology to OtGHV1 at the DNA polymerase, glycoprotein B, and viral bcl2-like genes. Sequencing of SASL amplicons revealed a novel related virus, herein called Otariid gammaherpesvirus 8 (OtGHV8). For comparison of sample sites, urogenital, conjunctival, and oropharyngeal swabs collected from 136 live pinnipeds of both species at Punta San Juan between 2011-2018 were then assayed using quantitative PCR for a segment of the OtGHV1/8 DNA polymerase gene using a qPCR assay now determined to cross-react between the two viruses. In total, across both species, 38.6% (51/132) of urogenital swabs, 5.6% (4/71) of conjunctival swabs, and 1.1% (1/90) of oropharyngeal swabs were positive for OtGHV1/8, with SASL only positive on urogenital swabs. Results from SASL were complicated by the finding of OtGHV8, necessitating further study to determine prevalence of OtGHV1 versus OtGHV8 using an alternate assay. Results from SAFS suggest a potential relationship between OtGHV1 in SAFS and CSL. Though necropsy surveillance in SAFS is very limited, geographic patterns of OtGHV1-associated urogenital carcinoma in CSL and the tendency of herpesviruses to cause more detrimental disease in aberrant hosts suggests that it is possible that SAFS may be the definitive host of OtGHV1, which gives further insight into the diversity and phyogeography of this clade of related gammaherpesviruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karisa N. Tang
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, United States of America
- Illinois Zoological and Aquatic Animal Residency, Urbana, IL, United States of America
- A. Watson Armour III Center for Animal Health and Welfare, John G. Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Adkesson
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, United States of America
| | - Susana Cárdenas-Alayza
- Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Fisiológicas, Facultad de Ciencias y Filosofía, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Alissa C. Deming
- Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Laguna Beach, CA, United States of America
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - James F. X. Wellehan
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - April Childress
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - Galaxia Cortes-Hinojosa
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Kathleen Colegrove
- Zoological Pathology Program, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Brookfield, IL, United States of America
| | - Jennifer N. Langan
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Matthew C. Allender
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL, United States of America
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Davidson A, Ryan M, Schnelle AN, Graser W, Adamovicz L, Allender MC. COMPARING THE EFFECTS OF DIPOTASSIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINETETRAACETIC ACID AND LITHIUM HEPARIN ON HEMATOLOGIC VALUES IN BLANDING'S TURTLES ( EMYDOIDEA BLANDINGII), PAINTED TURTLES ( CHRYSEMYS PICTA), AND COMMON SNAPPING TURTLES ( CHELYDRA SERPENTINA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:92-101. [PMID: 38453492 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematology is a routine component of clinical management in veterinary patients. Anticoagulant choice can profoundly influence morphologic assessment of erythrocytes, leukocytes, thrombocytes, and their subsequent quantification. Previous chelonian studies suggest that lithium heparin (LH) is a superior anticoagulant due to hemolysis resulting from dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (dEDTA) in some species. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of dEDTA and LH on hematologic values in Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii, n = 35), painted turtles (Chrysemys picta, n = 34), and common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina, n = 36). We collected samples from free-ranging turtles and immediately divided whole blood into LH and dEDTA tubes. Packed cell volume, total solids, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell counts, and differential leukocyte counts were determined. Hemolysis was observed macro- and microscopically in dEDTA samples from painted turtles and common snapping turtles. Packed cell volume and heterophil:lymphocyte was lower and erythrocyte sedimentation rate was higher in LH samples from painted turtles (p, 0.05). In snapping turtles, the PCV, number of monocytes, and number of eosinophils was lower in LH samples (p, 0.05). In Blanding's turtles, the number of eosinophils and basophils was higher in LH samples, while heterophil counts were lower (p, 0.05). Anticoagulant choice created constant and proportional bias for multiple analytes in a species-dependent fashion. LH is the recommended anticoagulant for hematology in painted turtles and common snapping turtles. Either LH or dEDTA may be used in Blanding's turtles, though anticoagulant-specific reference intervals may be necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Davidson
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,
| | - Maura Ryan
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Amy N Schnelle
- Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - William Graser
- Forest Preserve District of Kane County, Geneva, IL 60134, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vincent LM, Allender MC, Curtis AE, Madden NE, Cray C, Lance S, McFall A, Adamovicz L. CUTANEOUS MYIASIS AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO WELLNESS IN EASTERN BOX TURTLES ( TERRAPENE CAROLINA CAROLINA) IN CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 54:785-795. [PMID: 38252002 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) face a variety of anthropogenic, infectious, and environmental threats and have been affected by high morbidity and mortality disease events. Wellness parameters in free-ranging eastern box turtles with a high prevalence of myiasis on Cape Cod, MA, were documented to identify epidemiologic trends or associations with several health parameters. There were 109 samples collected from 59 individual box turtles over the course of 4 mon. Six turtles died over the course of this study. Fly larvae infestations varied in severity and were observed in the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue (n = 18; 30.5%). Animals with myiasis had fewer plastron abnormalities than those without (P = 0.034), and all turtles found in bogs had evidence of fly larvae infections (P < 0.0001). Individuals with myiasis also had lower body condition index (P = 0.014), lower total white blood cells (P = 0.031), lower PCV (P < 0.0001), lower total solids (P < 0.0001), higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P < 0.0001), lower calcium (P = 0.018), and lower phosphorus (P = 0.017). Three turtles tested positive for terrapene herpesvirus 1, but presence was not associated with myiasis. Heavy metal analysis revealed no significant differences between turtles with and without myiasis. This study examined the health of a population of eastern box turtles, and continued health assessments will be beneficial in determining the impact of myiasis on future conservation plans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Vincent
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 61802, USA,
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 61802, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| | - Annie E Curtis
- Natural Resources and Integrated Training Area Management Office, Massachusetts Army National Guard, MA 02542, USA
| | - Nicole E Madden
- Natural Resources and Integrated Training Area Management Office, Massachusetts Army National Guard, MA 02542, USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Comparative Pathology Laboratory, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL 33136, USA
| | - Stacey Lance
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC 29802, USA
| | - Adam McFall
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC 29802, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Apakupakul K, Duncan M, Subramaniam K, Brenn-White M, Palmer JL, Viadanna PHO, Vann JA, Adamovicz L, Waltzek TB, Deem SL. Ranavirus (Frog Virus 3) Infection in Free-Living Three-Toed Box Turtles (Terrapene mexicana triunguis) in Missouri, USA. J Wildl Dis 2024; 60:151-163. [PMID: 37921651 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00057] [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] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Frog virus 3 (FV3) and related ranaviruses are emerging infectious disease threats to ectothermic vertebrate species globally. Although the impact of these viruses on amphibian health is relatively well studied, less is understood about their effects on reptile health. We report two cases of FV3 infection, 11 mo apart, in three-toed box turtles (Terrapene mexicana triunguis) from a wildlife rehabilitation center. Case 1 had upper respiratory signs upon intake but had no clinical signs at the time of euthanasia 1 mo later. Case 2 presented for vehicular trauma, had ulcerative pharyngitis and glossitis, and died overnight. In case 1, we detected FV3 nucleic acid with qPCR in oral swabs, kidney, liver, spleen, and tongue. In case 2, we detected FV3 in an oral swab, an oral plaque, heart, kidney, lung, liver, spleen, and tongue. We also detected FV3 nucleic acid with in situ hybridization for case 2. For both cases, FV3 was isolated in cell culture and identified with DNA sequencing. Histopathologic examination of postmortem tissue from case 1 was unremarkable, whereas acute hemorrhagic pneumonia and splenic necrosis were noted in case 2. The difference in clinical signs between the two cases may have been due to differences in the temporal course of FV3 disease at the time of necropsy. Failure to detect this infection previously in Missouri reptiles may be due to lack of surveillance, although cases may also represent a novel spillover to box turtles in Missouri. Our findings reiterate previous suggestions that the range of FV3 infection may be greater than previously documented and that infection may occur in host species yet to be tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Apakupakul
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Mary Duncan
- Saint Louis Zoo Department of Animal Health, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Kuttichantran Subramaniam
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd., Bldg. 0471, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Rd., Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Maris Brenn-White
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Jamie L Palmer
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Pedro H O Viadanna
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd., Bldg. 0471, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Rd., Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Jordan A Vann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd., Bldg. 0471, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Rd., Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Thomas B Waltzek
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2187 Mowry Rd., Bldg. 0471, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Rd., Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
- Current affiliation: Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory and Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, P.O. Box 647034, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Sharon L Deem
- Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine, 1 Government Dr., St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Durante K, Adamovicz L, Haynes E, Schnelle AN, Allender MC. COMPARING THE EFFECTS OF LITHIUM HEPARIN AND DIPOTASSIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINETETRAACETIC ACID ON HEMATOLOGIC VALUES IN PRAIRIE RATTLESNAKES ( CROTALUS VIRIDIS) AND LAKE ERIE WATER SNAKES ( NERODIA SIPEDON INSULARUM). J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 54:817-824. [PMID: 38252007 DOI: 10.1638/2023-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Anticoagulants prevent clotting of blood samples and preserve cellular morphology for hematologic evaluations, but studies comparing anticoagulants are limited in snakes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of lithium heparin (LH) and dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on hematologic values in prairie rattlesnakes (PR; Crotalus viridis, n = 16) and Lake Erie water snakes (LEWS; Nerodia sipedon insularum, n = 21). Venipuncture was performed and blood samples were immediately aliquoted into LH and EDTA microtainers. Packed cell volume (PCV), total solids (TS), 100-cell differential counts, and Avian Leukopet white blood cell counts (WBC) were determined for each anticoagulant. Passing-Bablok regression and Bland-Altman plots revealed that anticoagulant choice did not constantly or proportionally bias the values of any WBC parameter. Mixed models demonstrated that blood anticoagulated with EDTA had higher PCV in PR (P = 0.04) and TS in both species (P < 0.05). However, the magnitude of the differences attributable to anticoagulant choice was relatively small and likely not clinically important. Hemolysis was not appreciated in any samples. Our findings demonstrate that LH and EDTA are equally appropriate for use in PR and LEWS, but may require separate reference values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kennymac Durante
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA,
- Oradell Animal Hospital, Paramus, NJ 07652 USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Ellen Haynes
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Amy N Schnelle
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bradley SE, Adamovicz L, Andersson K, Mumm L, Glowacki G, Allender MC. Evaluating Different Methods For Determining Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate In Free-Living Blanding's Turtles (Emydoidea Blandingii). J Wildl Dis 2023; 59:743-747. [PMID: 37768783 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00006] [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] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Characterizing host factors affecting individual health can be important in the conservation of many chelonians, including the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii). However, many routine clinical pathology tests do not reliably detect differences in health status in reptiles. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) has been shown to characterize inflammation in many species, including tortoises, and may be useful in assessing Blanding's turtles. The purpose of our study was to evaluate two methods of ESR measurement in free-ranging Blanding's turtles. Sixty Blanding's turtles captured at two sites in Illinois received a complete physical examination, and blood was collected for determination of packed cell volume, total solids, and ESR with both microhematocrit tubes and commercial kits (Winpette). Method agreement was assessed with Passing-Bablok regression. Associations between ESR and demographic, environmental, and health factors were determined by linear regression. The microhematocrit tube method proportionately overestimated ESR compared with the Winpette. With the use of both measurement methods, ESR was significantly different between study sites, higher in adult Blanding's turtles, and higher in females that were gravid compared with those that were not. ESR was also negatively associated with packed cell volume. ESR values in Blanding's turtles are comparable to other reptiles, and although microhematocrit tube and Winpette results are not interchangeable, their associations with biological predictors are similar, and either method has the potential to be used with separate reference intervals to assess turtles for inflammatory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E Bradley
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Kirsten Andersson
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Lauren Mumm
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin Madison, 2015 Linden Dr., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA
| | - Gary Glowacki
- Lake County Forest Preserve District, 1899 West Winchester Rd., Libertyville, Illinois 60048, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S Lincoln Ave., Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield, Illinois 60513, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hoyer LL, Hogan EK, Adamovicz L, Allender MC, Terio KA, Hernandez AG. Genome sequence of Emydomyces testavorans type strain 16-2883 (ATCC TSD-145), an onygenalean fungus associated with freshwater aquatic turtle shell lesions. Microbiol Resour Announc 2023; 12:e0022223. [PMID: 37551979 PMCID: PMC10508107 DOI: 10.1128/mra.00222-23] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Emydomyces testavorans is an onygenalean keratinophilic fungus associated with shell and skin lesions in freshwater aquatic turtles. The genome sequence presented here includes five contigs (ranging in size from 2.8 to 9.8 Mb; 31.8 Mb total; 40% GC) and a 92.2-kb mitochondrial genome. The nuclear genome predicted 7,550 genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois L. Hoyer
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Elizabeth K. Hogan
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew C. Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Karen A. Terio
- Zoological Pathology Program, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Alvaro G. Hernandez
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vincent EC, Fayette MA, Griffioen JA, Litwiler G, Adamovicz L, Ospina E, Allender MC. HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF PAINTED TURTLES (CHRYSEMYS PICTA) IN A RESTORED WETLAND HABITAT IN NORTHWESTERN INDIANA, USA. J Wildl Dis 2023:492714. [PMID: 37099728 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00088] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater turtles are sensitive to environmental changes and can serve as sentinel species for ecosystem health assessments. The Efroymson Restoration at Kankakee Sands in northwestern Indiana, USA has been restored in the past 25 yr from primarily agricultural land to a mosaic of prairie and wetland habitats. Health assessments of 40 free-ranging painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) at Kankakee Sands were performed in May 2021 to evaluate overall health status, screen for infectious diseases, and obtain baseline clinical pathology values in this population. Assessment of each turtle included a physical examination, complete blood count, plasma biochemistry panel, blood lactate level, venous blood gas analysis, serum trace mineral panel, serum vitamin D3 level, and plasma protein electrophoresis. Oral and cloacal swabs were tested for adenoviruses, herpesviruses, frog virus 3, and Mycoplasmopsis species by PCR in 39 painted turtles. Four turtles were positive for adenovirus, which shared 100% homology to Sulawesi tortoise adenovirus. Two turtles were herpesvirus-positive with 100% homology to emydid herpesvirus 1. No Mycoplasmopsis spp. or frog virus 3 was detected. Female turtles had significantly higher manganese, prealbumin, uric acid, triglycerides, and ionized calcium levels, while male turtles had significantly higher cholesterol, glutamate dehydrogenase, and CO2 levels. These baseline data can be used for future research into freshwater turtle health in restored wetland habitats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Vincent
- The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, 1920 Coffey Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
- Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46222, USA
| | - Melissa A Fayette
- Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46222, USA
| | - John A Griffioen
- Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46222, USA
- Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, Texas 76110, USA
| | - Garet Litwiler
- The Nature Conservancy in Indiana, 620 East Ohio Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Emilie Ospina
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
- Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Zoological Society, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, Illinois 60513, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Angles R, Adkesson MJ, Cárdenas-Alayza S, Adamovicz L, Allender MC. DETECTION AND PREVALENCE OF SPHENISCID ALPHA-HERPESVIRUS-1 (SpAHV-1) IN A SAMPLE OF HUMBOLDT PENGUINS ( SPHENISCUS HUMBOLDTI) AT PUNTA SAN JUAN, PERU. J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:159-163. [PMID: 36971641 DOI: 10.1638/2022-0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections with herpesvirus have contributed to respiratory, enteric, and neurological disease reports in avian species worldwide. Herpesviruses have been detected in penguin species before but have not been studied extensively. To better understand the impact of these viruses in free-living populations, an initial retrospective survey was performed on a wild population of Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) in the Punta San Juan Marine Protected Area, Peru (15°22'S, 75°12'W) using tracheal swabs collected from 28 penguins in 2016 and 34 penguins in 2018. DNA extracted from these swabs was analyzed using a consensus herpesviral PCR assay targeting the DNA polymerase gene, and positive samples were sequenced. A single sample from 2016 was positive for spheniscid alpha-herpesvirus-1 (SpAHV-1), establishing an overall sample prevalence of 1.6% (95% CI: 0-8.6%). The positive animal was an adult male that did not show any clinical signs of herpesviral infection and was otherwise healthy based on physical exam and laboratory findings. This is the first detection of a herpesvirus in penguins at Punta San Juan, Peru, and the first step toward characterizing the implications of SpAHV-1 for Humboldt penguins. This investigation highlights the importance of continual disease surveillance in wild populations over time to monitor for changes that may impact long-term population viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Angles
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA,
| | | | | | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
- Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Adamovicz L, Allender MC. Clinical Pathology of Box Turtles (Terrapene spp.). Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2022; 25:735-754. [PMID: 36122949 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2022.05.004] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Box turtles are commonly presented for veterinary care and clinicopathologic testing is a vital component of case management. This article summarizes recent literature about box turtle clinical pathology and identifies directions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sander WE, King R, Graser W, Kapfer JM, Engel AI, Adamovicz L, Allender MC. Coxiella burnetii in 3 Species of Turtles in the Upper Midwest, United States. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:3199-3202. [PMID: 34808095 PMCID: PMC8632166 DOI: 10.3201/eid2712.211278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii, the causative bacterium of the zoonotic disease Q fever, has been documented in many different species. We describe documented turtles that were PCR positive for C. burnetii from multiple locations in Illinois and Wisconsin, USA. Assessing the conservation implications, reservoir potential, and zoonotic risk requires further research.
Collapse
|
12
|
Andersson KE, Adamovicz L, Mumm LE, Bradley SE, Winter JM, Glowacki G, Cray C, Allender MC. Plasma electrophoresis profiles of Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) and influences of month, age, sex, health status, and location. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258397. [PMID: 34648539 PMCID: PMC8516212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Baseline plasma electrophoresis profiles (EPH) are important components of overall health and may aid in the conservation and captive management of species. The aim of this study was to establish plasma protein fractions for free-ranging Blanding’s turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) and evaluate differences due to age class (adult vs. sub-adult vs. juvenile), sex (male, female, or unknown), year (2018 vs. 2019), month (May vs. June vs. July), health status, and geographical location (managed vs. unmanaged sites). Blood samples were obtained from 156 Blanding’s turtles in the summer of 2018 and 129 in 2019 at two adjacent sites in Illinois. Results of the multivariate analysis demonstrated that age class, sex, year, month, health status, and geographical location all contributed to the variation observed in free-ranging populations. Adult females had the highest concentration of many protein fractions, likely associated with reproductive activity. Juveniles had lower protein concentrations. Temperature and rainfall differences between years impacted concentrations between 2018 and 2019, while May and June of both years saw higher levels in some protein fractions likely due to peak breeding and nesting season. Individuals with evidence of trauma or disease also showed increased plasma protein fractions when compared to those that were considered healthy. The two sites showed a wide/large variation over the two years. All of these factors emphasize the importance of considering multiple demographic or environmental factors when interpreting the EPH fractions. Establishing ranges for these analytes will allow investigation into disease prevalence and other environmental factors impacting this endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten E. Andersson
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
- * E-mail: (KEA); (MCA)
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Lauren E. Mumm
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Samantha E. Bradley
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - John M. Winter
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
| | - Gary Glowacki
- Lake County Forest Preserve District, Libertyville, IL, United States of America
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Matthew C. Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States of America
- * E-mail: (KEA); (MCA)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Andersson KE, Adamovicz L, Mumm LE, Winter JM, Glowacki G, Teixeira-Neto R, Adkesson MJ, Hostnik ET, Haynes E, Allender MC. Detection of a novel herpesvirus associated with squamous cell carcinoma in a free-ranging Blanding's turtle. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 33:348-351. [PMID: 33491592 DOI: 10.1177/1040638721989302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The spread of both infectious and noninfectious diseases through wildlife populations is of increasing concern. Neoplastic diseases are rarely associated with population-level impacts in wildlife; however, impacts on individual health can be severe and might reflect deteriorating environmental conditions. An adult male free-ranging Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) originally captured in 2005 and deemed healthy, was recaptured in 2018 with a 1 × 1.5 cm intra-oral broad-based right mandibular mass. An excisional biopsy was performed, and histopathology revealed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Consensus herpesvirus PCR identified a novel herpesvirus (proposed name Emydoidea herpesvirus 2 [EBHV-2]) within the tumor. EBHV-2 shares 85% sequence homology with Terrapene herpesvirus 2 (TerHV-2), a herpesvirus linked to fibropapillomas in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina). Virus-associated fibropapillomas have been identified in multiple marine turtle species and have had debilitating effects on their populations, but to date, virus-associated SCCs are rarely reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten E Andersson
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL.,Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | - Lauren E Mumm
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | - John M Winter
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | - Gary Glowacki
- Lake County Forest Preserve District, Libertyville, IL
| | - Rachel Teixeira-Neto
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | | | | | - Ellen Haynes
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois-Urbana, IL.,Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Adamovicz L, Baker SJ, Merchant M, Darville L, Allender MC. Plasma complement activation mechanisms differ in ornate (Terrapene ornata ornata) and eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina). J Exp Zool A Ecol Integr Physiol 2020; 333:720-731. [PMID: 33075215 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Eastern (Terrapene carolina carolina) and ornate (Terrapene ornata ornata) box turtles have robust plasma antibacterial activity, however, the mechanism behind this activity is unknown. We used sheep red blood cell (SRBC) hemolysis assays, mannan-affinity chromatography, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) to explore the mechanisms of complement activity in box turtles. Plasma from both species demonstrated volume, time, and temperature-dependent SRBC hemolysis, with significantly greater hemolytic activity in ornate box turtle plasma. Hemolytic activity was highly attenuated following treatment with heat, EDTA, and salicylaldoxime in both species, but was unchanged after treatment with methylamine and ammonium hydroxide. Two abundant mannan-binding proteins (presumed C-type lectins) were identified in eastern box turtle plasma using SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF, but ornate box turtles did not express either protein. Eastern box turtles appear to rely on the lectin pathway of complement activation while ornate box turtles utilize the alternative pathway. This study provides further evidence that mechanisms underlying immune function are not always conserved between closely related species. This finding may have important implications for explaining species differences in susceptibility to emerging threats such as disease, toxicants, and climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah J Baker
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,Arizona Game and Fish Department, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Mark Merchant
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Engineering, McNeese State University, Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA
| | - Lancia Darville
- Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Chelonians are increasingly challenged by anthropogenic threats and disease. This article summarizes recent literature and clinical experiences regarding 4 emerging infectious diseases in turtles and tortoises: ranaviruses, cryptosporidiosis, intranuclear coccodiosis of Testudines, and Emydomyces testavorans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Paul M Gibbons
- Avian and Exotic Veterinary Care, 7826 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, OR 97213, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Haynes E, Chandler HC, Stegenga BS, Adamovicz L, Ospina E, Zerpa-Catanho D, Stevenson DJ, Allender MC. Publisher Correction: Ophidiomycosis surveillance of snakes in Georgia, USA reveals new host species and taxonomic associations with disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15362. [PMID: 32938946 PMCID: PMC7495465 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69878-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Haynes
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | | | | | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Emilie Ospina
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Dirk J Stevenson
- The Orianne Society, Tiger, GA, USA.,Altamaha Environmental Consulting, Hinesville, GA, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Engel AI, Adamovicz L, Wellehan JFX, Allender MC. Development and validation of a quantitative PCR assay for detection of Terrapene herpesvirus 2 in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina). J Virol Methods 2020; 286:113968. [PMID: 32910971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2020.113968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Herpesviruses are associated with disease in many chelonian species, resulting in pathology such as respiratory tract infection, stomatitis, conjunctivitis, hepatitis, and papillomatosis. Herpesvirus-associated fibropapillomas cause significant morbidity and mortality in marine turtles, and have been identified in an eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) infected with Terrapene herpesvirus 2 (TerHV2). Further investigation is necessary to understand the impact of carcinogenic herpesviruses on chelonian health; however, reliable and specific methods for detection and quantitation of herpesviral load are lacking. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a quantitative PCR assay for detection of TerHV2 in box turtles. TaqMan primer-probes were developed targeting the DNA polymerase gene. Inter- and intra-assay variability, linear range of detection, limit of detection, and specificity were assessed. The assay was highly specific for TerHV2, failing to amplify seven closely-related chelonian herpesviruses. It performed with high efficiency (slope = -3.52, R2 = 1, efficiency = 92.29 %), low intra-assay variability and low inter-assay variability (coefficient of variation ≤ 1.25 % at all standard dilutions). Reaction efficiency was not impacted in the presence of box turtle DNA from combined oral/cloacal swabs or whole blood. This qPCR assay has a linear range of detection from 107 to 101 viral copies per reaction and provides a valuable tool in the surveillance and characterization of TerHV2 in box turtles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey I Engel
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802, United States.
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802, United States; Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802, United States.
| | - James F X Wellehan
- Zoological Medicine Service, Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 100126, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States.
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802, United States; Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Haynes E, Chandler HC, Stegenga BS, Adamovicz L, Ospina E, Zerpa-Catanho D, Stevenson DJ, Allender MC. Ophidiomycosis surveillance of snakes in Georgia, USA reveals new host species and taxonomic associations with disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10870. [PMID: 32616837 PMCID: PMC7331741 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67800-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ophidiomycosis (snake fungal disease) is caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola and threatens snake health worldwide. It has been documented throughout the eastern United States and severe cases have recently been reported in Georgia, USA. To evaluate disease distribution and prevalence in this state, 786 free-ranging snakes were examined for skin lesions consistent with ophidiomycosis and swabbed to detect O. ophiodiicola DNA using qPCR. Sampled snakes represented 34 species and 4 families; 27.5% had skin lesions, 13.3% were positive for O. ophiodiicola DNA, and 77.8% of the qPCR positive individuals had skin lesions. This is the first report of O. ophiodiicola in five of the 22 species that were qPCR positive. Multinomial logistic regression modeling indicated that Drymarchon couperi had a higher relative risk of apparent ophidiomycosis (lesions present and qPCR positive), and the best models predicting qPCR result and ophidiomycosis category included individual factors and excluded temporal and spatial factors. Phylogeny-based bipartite network analysis showed that Nerodia erythrogaster, Nerodia taxispilota, and D. couperi had the highest prevalence of apparent ophidiomycosis; this category was more prevalent in the subfamily Colubrinae and less prevalent in Natricinae. These results provide important information about ophidiomycosis epidemiology, which has implications for snake conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Haynes
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | | | | | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Emilie Ospina
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Dirk J Stevenson
- The Orianne Society, Tiger, GA, USA
- Altamaha Environmental Consulting, Hinesville, GA, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rayl JM, Adamovicz L, Stern AW, Vieson MD, Phillips CA, Kelly M, Beermann M, Allender MC. MORTALITY INVESTIGATION OF MONITORED EASTERN BOX TURTLES ( TERRAPENE CAROLINA CAROLINA) IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS, USA, FROM 2016-18. J Wildl Dis 2020; 56:306-315. [PMID: 31750775] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Mortality events in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) threaten conservation efforts across the species range. These events are often under-diagnosed and, when observed, predictive health factors are unavailable prior to death. At Kickapoo State Park in central Illinois, USA, ranaviruses caused observed mortality events in amphibians and chelonians in 2014 and 2015. Following these outbreaks, eastern box turtles (n=36) were affixed with radio transmitters and temperature data loggers to obtain repeated location and temperature data from spring 2016-spring 2018. Bimonthly, samples of blood and oral and cloacal swabs were collected to investigate health parameters (hematology and cytokine transcription) and presence of multiple pathogens. Deaths of instrumented turtles occurred in 2016 (n=5), 2017 (n=15), and 2018 (n=2). The largest single die-off occurred in February 2017 (n=7). Seventeen turtles were necropsied and multiple pathologic processes were identified, most frequently decreased adipose stores (n=6). Two turtles had pathologic findings consistent with multisystemic inflammation. In addition, infectious pathogens were identified in turtles prior to death, but no single agent was associated with each mortality event. Ranavirus was not detected in any turtle. Hot spot analysis revealed spatial clustering at the center and edges of the study area for body temperature as well as for relative cytokine transcription of interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-10 associated with turtle death. Though no single causal factor could be identified, the information from this mortality event can direct future chelonian mortality investigations by providing baseline longitudinal data prior to death and in surviving turtles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Rayl
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Adam W Stern
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA
| | - Miranda D Vieson
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Christopher A Phillips
- Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois, 1820 S Oak Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820, USA
| | - Marta Kelly
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Michelle Beermann
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Adamovicz L, Baker SJ, Merchant M, Allender MC. Plasma antibacterial activities in ornate (Terrapene ornata) and eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina). J Exp Zool A Ecol Integr Physiol 2020; 333:295-305. [PMID: 32037741 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chelonians are one of the most imperiled vertebrate taxa and many species are increasingly threatened by disease, however, the immune response in this group is understudied. We quantified the innate immune response of eastern (Terrapene carolina; EBT) and ornate (Terrapene ornate; OBT) box turtles using plasma antibacterial activity assays. Plasma from both species abolished or significantly reduced the growth of all eight bacterial species evaluated, including Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Citrobacter freundi, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus aureus. Bactericidal capacity was greater in OBT compared to EBT, and OBT plasma retained high antibacterial activities at a broader temperature range (20-40°C) compared to EBT (30-40°C). Plasma antibacterial activity was abolished following treatment with heat, protease, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, indicating that complement is likely responsible for the observed effects. Further characterization of the box turtle immune response may provide insight into the importance of infectious diseases for species conservation, enabling the development of more efficient and effective population management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Sarah J Baker
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois.,Arizona Game and Fish Department, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Mark Merchant
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, McNeese State University, Lake Charles, Louisiana
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lopez Vargas NA, Adamovicz L, Willeford B, Allan BF, Allender MC. Lack of molecular detection of frog virus 3-like ranavirus (FV3) in mosquitoes during natural outbreak and nonoutbreak conditions. Facets (Ott) 2020. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2020-0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ranaviruses are worldwide pathogens of ectothermic vertebrates that can threaten herptile conservation efforts. Identifying transmission routes is critical for understanding disease ecology and promoting species conservation. Frog virus 3 (FV3) DNA was detected in mosquitoes during a ranavirus outbreak in semicaptive box turtles, but the role that insect vectors play under natural conditions is unknown. To address this knowledge gap, we collected mosquito species known to take blood meals from reptiles and amphibians ( Aedes canadensis, Culex erraticus, Culex territans, and Uranotaenia sapphirina) from mid-May to early August, 2014, at four study sites in Vermilion County, Illinois, two of which had historic or ongoing FV3 outbreaks in box turtles and amphibians. Mosquitoes were batched by date and species, DNA was extracted, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed for detection of FV3. FV3 was not detected despite one of the sites having an active FV3 outbreak during the study period. Our findings indicate that FV3 detection is uncommon in mosquitoes during outbreak and nonoutbreak conditions at these sites in Illinois. Thus, we cannot establish that mosquitoes contribute to transmission during natural mortality events without performing further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A. Lopez Vargas
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Brittany Willeford
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Brian F. Allan
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois, 505 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Matthew C. Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Boers KL, Allender MC, Novak LJ, Palmer J, Adamovicz L, Deem SL. Assessment of hematologic and corticosterone response in free-living eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) at capture and after handling. Zoo Biol 2019; 39:13-22. [PMID: 31609016 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 09/08/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Hematology is a common tool for wildlife health assessments. Manual leukocyte counts are required in reptiles, however, disagreement between quantification methods has been observed in some chelonians. This study determined agreement between two methods of leukocyte quantification, eosinophilic leukopet, and blood film white blood cell (WBC) estimates, in free-living eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina). Simultaneously, we assessed the impact of handling duration on both leukocyte quantity and corticosterone levels. We collected blood at capture (<2 min from disturbance) and again before release 30-150 min later from 92 box turtles at six sites in Illinois and Tennessee. Constant and proportional error was present in the leukopet results for WBC, lymphocytes, and basophils compared to the estimate method. Both methods were in agreement for heterophils, monocytes, and eosinophils. Agreement between the methods was significantly more likely at WBC counts below 23,241/µl. All hematologic parameters were significantly higher at the final blood draw compared to the initial blood draw using both WBC determination methods, except relative eosinophil and basophil counts. Corticosterone levels varied with time, with maximum concentrations reached at 54 min postcapture, followed by a rapid return to baseline levels. Corticosterone level was not significantly associated with any hematologic parameter or sex. This study provides a framework for understanding the effects of animal handling methodology and diagnostic modality when evaluating hematologic health in box turtles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Boers
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Lauren J Novak
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Jamie Palmer
- Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Sharon L Deem
- Institute for Conservation Medicine, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Adamovicz L, Applegate J, Harris J, Saker K. USE OF A GASTROSTOMY AND JEJUNOSTOMY TUBE FOR MANAGEMENT OF GASTRIC DISTENTION FOLLOWING PYLORIC OUTFLOW OBSTRUCTION IN A FERRET (MUSTELA PUTORIUS FURO). J Exot Pet Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2018.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
24
|
Adamovicz L, Leister K, Byrd J, Phillips CA, Allender MC. Venous blood gas in free-living eastern box turtles ( Terrapene carolina carolina) and effects of physiologic, demographic and environmental factors. Conserv Physiol 2018; 6:coy041. [PMID: 30087775 PMCID: PMC6059089 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coy041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 06/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable wildlife populations depend on healthy individuals, and the approach to determine wellness of individuals is multifaceted. Blood gas analysis serves as a useful adjunctive diagnostic test for health assessment, but it is uncommonly applied to terrestrial reptiles. This study established reference intervals for venous blood gas panels in free-living eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina, N = 102) from Illinois and Tennessee, and modeled the effects of environmental and physiologic parameters on each blood gas analyte. Blood gas panels included pH, partial pressure of oxygen (pO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), total carbon dioxide (TCO2), bicarbonate (HCO3-), base excess (BE) and lactate. Candidate sets of general linear models were constructed for each blood gas analyte and ranked using an information-theoretic approach (AIC). Season, packed cell volume (PCV) and activity level were the most important predictors for all blood gas analytes (P < 0.05). Elevations in PCV were associated with increases in pCO2 and lactate, and decreases in pH, pO2, HCO3-, TCO2 and BE. Turtles with quiet activity levels had lower pH and pO2 and higher pCO2 than bright individuals. pH, HCO3-, TCO2 and BE were lowest in the summer, while pCO2 and lactate were highest. Overall, blood pH was most acidic in quiet turtles with elevated PCVs during summer. Trends in the respiratory and metabolic components of the blood gas panel tended to be synergistic rather than antagonistic, demonstrating that either (1) mixed acid-base disturbances are common or (2) chelonian blood pH can reach extreme values prior to activation of compensatory mechanisms. This study shows that box turtle blood gas analytes depend on several physiologic and environmental parameters and the results serve as a baseline for future evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Katie Leister
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - John Byrd
- Clinch River Environmental Studies Organization Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Christopher A Phillips
- Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, 1816 S. Oak St., Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Lab, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lindemann DM, Allender MC, Thompson D, Adamovicz L, Dzhaman E. Development and validation of a quantitative PCR assay for detection of Emydoidea herpesvirus 1 in free-ranging Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii). J Virol Methods 2018; 254:40-45. [PMID: 29360549 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii), an endangered species in Illinois, have experienced range-wide declines because of habitat degradation and fragmentation, predation, and road mortality. While ongoing studies are crucial to a thorough understanding of the natural history and demographics in these disjointed Illinois populations, infectious disease threats have been largely unevaluated. Herpesvirus outbreaks have been associated with high morbidity and mortality in populations of captive tortoises and turtles worldwide, including the family Emydidae (pond and box turtles). However, novel herpesviruses including Terrapene herpesvirus 1, Emydid herpesvirus 1 and 2, and Glyptemys herpesvirus 1 and 2, have recently been identified in apparently healthy free-ranging freshwater turtles. In 2015, 20 free-ranging Blanding's turtles in DuPage County, Illinois were screened for a herpesvirus using consensus PCR. A novel herpesvirus species (Emydoidea herpesvirus 1; EBHV1) was identified in two animals and shared a high degree of sequence homology to other freshwater turtle herpesviruses. Two quantitative real-time PCR assays, using EBHV1 primer-1 and primer-2, were developed to target an EBHV1-specific segment of the DNA-dependent DNA polymerase gene and validated. Both assays performed with high efficiency (slope = -3.2; R2 = 1), low intra-assay variability, and low inter-assay variability (coefficient of variation <2% at all dilutions). However, EBHV1 primer-2 displayed less variation and was selected to test clinical samples and five closely related herpesvirus control samples. Results indicate that this assay is specific for EBHV1, has a linear range of detection from 108 to 101 viral copies per reaction, and can categorically detect as few as 1 viral copy per reaction. This qPCR assay provides a valuable diagnostic tool for future characterization of EBHV1 epidemiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Lindemann
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
| | - Matthew C Allender
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Dan Thompson
- Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Wheaton, IL 60189, USA
| | - Laura Adamovicz
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Elena Dzhaman
- Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Adamovicz L, Bullen L, Saker K, Grunkemeyer V. Use of an Esophagostomy Tube for Management of Traumatic Subtotal Glossectomy in an African Pygmy Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris). J Exot Pet Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
27
|
Adamovicz L, Lewbart G, Gilger B. Phacoemulsification and aspiration for cataract management in a dollar sunfish, Lepomis marginatus (Holbrook)--a case report. J Fish Dis 2015; 38:1089-1092. [PMID: 25640988 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Adamovicz
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - G Lewbart
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - B Gilger
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|