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Kearney CC, Ball RL, Hall MB. Effects of altering diet carbohydrate profile and physical form on zoo-housed giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2024. [PMID: 38590078 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13957] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Unlike wild giraffe that primarily consume low starch browse, the preference of zoo-housed giraffe for consuming supplemental feeds over forage could increase the risk of digestive disorders such as ruminal acidosis. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of modifying a supplemental feed's non-fibre carbohydrate profile and physical form on nutritional, behavioural, and blood measures of giraffe in a zoological setting. Six non-lactating, adult, female reticulated giraffes were used in a two-pen modified reversal study using two dietary treatments in seven 21-day periods with data collected on days 15-21. Dietary treatments were a control feed comprised of commercially available products used at the time as the giraffe feed (GF) and an unpelleted experimental feed (EF). On a dry matter basis, GF and EF, respectively, contained 17.0% and 17.4% crude protein, 14.2% and 1.5% starch, 14.9% and 21.3% ethanol-soluble carbohydrates, 22.9% and 26.0% acid detergent fibre (ADF) and 9.50% and 14.9% ND-soluble fibre (NDSF), with modulus of fineness values of 3.62 and 4.82. Supplemental feeds, alfalfa hay, salt, and water were available for ad libitum consumption. Significance was declared at p ≤ 0.05. Intakes of hay, supplemental feeds, and total feed did not differ by diet (p > 0.28), though intakes of starch (0.93 and 0.12 kg; p = 0.05) and ADF (1.83 and 2.23 kg; p = 0.04) differed between GF and EF respectively. Giraffe behaviour values (min/48 h) were greater with EF for total eating (p = 0.04); diets were not detected as different for engagement in oral stereotypes (GF = 433, EF = 318 min/48 h; p = 0.22). Blood glucose was higher on GF than EF (99.0 and 82.3 mg/dL; p = 0.03). The lower EF blood glucose value is more similar to ranges reported for domesticated ruminants. No differences were detected for changes in body weight or body condition score in the 21-day periods (p > 0.32). Modification of supplemental feed carbohydrate profile and physical form can influence behaviour and blood glucose values of zoo-housed giraffe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste C Kearney
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ray L Ball
- Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Mary Beth Hall
- U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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2
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Hoffman LC, Silberbauer BL, Needham T, Bureš D, Kotrba R, Strydom PE. The Effect of Sex on the Chemical and Mineral Composition of the Meat, Bone and Liver of Giraffe ( Giraffa giraffa angolensis). Foods 2024; 13:394. [PMID: 38338529 PMCID: PMC10855660 DOI: 10.3390/foods13030394] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Consumers tend to buy meat based on visual physical characteristics, which are affected by the chemical composition of the meat, and there is very little known about the chemical composition of the meat of giraffe. This study therefore aims to broaden the knowledge base on the chemical composition of giraffe meat, rib bone and liver. Eight different muscles from 15 giraffes were analyzed to determine the chemical composition, yielding an average moisture of 77.2 ± 0.09 g/100 g meat, an average protein of 20.8 ± 0.09 g/100 g meat, an average intramuscular fat (IMF) of 1.4 ± 0.03 g/100 g meat and an average ash of 1.1 ± 0.01 g/100 g meat. There was a significant interaction between sex and muscle for the moisture, protein and ash contents, while only muscle had an effect on the fat content. The mineral content of the bone, liver and Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle was also analyzed, and bone was found to be a rich source of calcium (highest concentration), whilst the liver had the highest concentration of iron. The chemical composition of the giraffe meat was such that it could be classified as lean meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louwrens Christiaan Hoffman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
- Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Digital Agricultural Building, Gatton 4343, Australia
| | - Bianca L. Silberbauer
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Tersia Needham
- Department of Animal Science and Food Processing, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 16500 Prague, Czech Republic; (T.N.); (R.K.)
| | - Daniel Bureš
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agrobiology Food and Natural Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 16500 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Radim Kotrba
- Department of Animal Science and Food Processing, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 16500 Prague, Czech Republic; (T.N.); (R.K.)
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Animal Science, Přátelství 815, Praha Uhříněves, 10400 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Philip E. Strydom
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
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3
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van Schalkwyk A, Kara P, Last RD, Romito M, Wallace DB. Detection and Genome Sequencing of Lumpy Skin Disease Viruses in Wildlife Game Species in South Africa. Viruses 2024; 16:172. [PMID: 38399948 PMCID: PMC10892850 DOI: 10.3390/v16020172] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) has recently undergone rapid spread, now being reported from more than 80 countries, affecting predominantly cattle and to a lesser extent, water buffalo. This poxvirus was previously considered to be highly host-range restricted. However, there is an increasing number of published reports on the detection of the virus from different game animal species. The virus has not only been shown to infect a wide range of game species under experimental conditions, but has also been naturally detected in oryx, giraffe, camels and gazelle. In addition, clinical lumpy skin disease has previously been described in springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), an African antelope species, in South Africa. This report describes the characterization of lumpy skin disease virus belonging to cluster 1.2, from field samples from springbok, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and a giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) in South Africa using PCR, Sanger and whole genome sequencing. Most of these samples were submitted from wild animals in nature reserves or game parks, indicating that the disease is not restricted to captive-bred animals on game farms or zoological gardens. The potential role of wildlife species in the transmission and maintenance of LSDV is further discussed and requires continuing investigation, as the virus and disease may pose a serious threat to endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoinette van Schalkwyk
- Agricultural Research Council—Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.K.); (M.R.)
- Department of Biotechnology, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Pravesh Kara
- Agricultural Research Council—Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.K.); (M.R.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Genetics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Robert D. Last
- Vetdiagnostix–Veterinary Pathology Services, Pietermaritzburg 3200, South Africa;
| | - Marco Romito
- Agricultural Research Council—Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.K.); (M.R.)
| | - David B. Wallace
- Agricultural Research Council—Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; (P.K.); (M.R.)
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, P/Bag X4, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
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4
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Ouchida T, Tanaka T, Suzuki H, Uchida K, Nakagawa T, Li G, Nakamura T, Yanaka M, Handa S, Kaneko MK, Kato Y. PMab-301: An Anti- Giraffe Podoplanin Monoclonal Antibody for Immunohistochemistry. Monoclon Antib Immunodiagn Immunother 2023; 42:209-215. [PMID: 38150189 DOI: 10.1089/mab.2023.0020] [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: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunohistochemistry staining is an essential method in pathological diagnoses. Podoplanin (PDPN) is a specific maker of alveolar epithelium, lymphatic vessels, and glomeruli. In this study, we established a novel anti-giraffe PDPN (girPDPN) mAb, PMab-301, using the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CBIS) method. PMab-301 (mouse IgG1, kappa) detected girPDPN in various applications, such as flow cytometry, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. PMab-301 specifically stained type-I alveolar cells using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded giraffe lung tissues. Our findings suggest the potential usefulness of PMab-301 for the pathophysiological analyses of giraffe tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsunenori Ouchida
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Tanaka
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Suzuki
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Uchida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Nakagawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Guanjie Li
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takuro Nakamura
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Miyuki Yanaka
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Saori Handa
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Mika K Kaneko
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yukinari Kato
- Department of Antibody Drug Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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5
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Ferguson S, Kaitho T, Lekolool I, Muneza A, Michelmore J, McFeeters L, Wells E, Ahl K, Hoffman R, Brown M, Fennessy S, Fennessy J. Congenital and Neoplastic Cranial Deformities in Wild Giraffe (Giraffa spp.). J Wildl Dis 2023; 59:472-478. [PMID: 37269548 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-22-00102] [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: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Congenital deformities and neoplasia are poorly documented in wildlife, owing to the difficulty of detection in wild populations. Congenital deformities may lead to premature mortality, thus reducing the chances of thorough documentation. Importantly, neoplasia diagnoses depend on either sampling suspicious lesions from living individuals or access to fresh, undisturbed carcasses, which can prove challenging. We describe five cases of suspected congenital cranial deformities (midfacial cleft, wry nose, and brachygnathia inferior) and two possible cases of cranial neoplasia (orbital bone mass and a soft tissue mass) opportunistically observed in wild giraffe (Giraffa spp.) across their range in Africa. Although cases are largely limited to subjective description because physical examination is often not possible, it is critical to document such observations to help identify and track potential health concerns in wild giraffe populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ferguson
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Titus Kaitho
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary Services Department, PO Box 40241-0100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isaac Lekolool
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary Services Department, PO Box 40241-0100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Arthur Muneza
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Jordan Michelmore
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Lachlan McFeeters
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Emma Wells
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Katherine Ahl
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Rigardt Hoffman
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Michael Brown
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Conservation Ecology Center, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, Virginia 22630, USA
| | | | - Julian Fennessy
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099 Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
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6
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Okabe K, Fukuizumi H, Kawamura A, Kase C, Uetake K. An investigation of browsing enrichment, especially non-leaf foraging, on giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) at Kyoto City Zoo in Japan. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:157-161. [PMID: 35959976 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21726] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Browsing enrichment may aid in developing species-specific behaviors for giraffes managed in zoos as a means of improving animal welfare. By nature, giraffes are tree-feeding animals, including tree bark, but the extent of food other than leaves as a form of browsing enrichment has not been well investigated. Therefore, to investigate the effectiveness of non-leaf foraging, three giraffes at the Kyoto City Zoo in Japan were observed for 228 h from May 2019 to February 2020. In conjunction with behavioral instantaneous sampling, tree use (landscape tree or enrichment branch) and plant part (leaves, twigs, or barks) were recorded by the 1-0 sampling method. There was no significant change in the foraging behavior on the leaves of enriched branches, nor was there any significant change in the foraging behavior of the giraffes, except for one animal in the deciduous phase. No significant changes were observed in rumination or other behaviors between the two phases. Although vegetation foraging behavior significantly decreased, except for one animal, dry hay foraging behavior significantly increased in all the animals during the deciduous phase. Some individuals also showed a significant increase in the foraging behavior for non-leafy parts of the enrichment branches (twigs and bark) during the deciduous phase. This suggests that in some tree species, giraffes forage on the bark and twigs to compensate for the loss of leaves during the deciduous phase, similar to feeding on hay or hay cubes as a substitute for tree leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Okabe
- Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto city, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Chihiro Kase
- School of veterinary medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Katsuji Uetake
- School of veterinary medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
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7
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van der Walt MS, Daffue W, Goedhals J, van der Merwe S, Deacon F. A Preliminary Study on the Siphon Mechanism in Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12. [PMID: 36496868 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult giraffes reach heights of 4.5 m with a heart-to-head distance of over 2 m, making cranial blood supply challenging. Ultrasound confirmed that the giraffe jugular vein collapses during head movement from ground level to fully erect, negating the possibility of a siphon mechanism in the neck. We showed that a short-length siphon structure over a simulated head-to-heart distance for a giraffe significantly influences flow in a collapsible tube. The siphon structure is determined according to brain case measurements. The short-length siphon structure in a shorter-necked ostrich showed no significant increase in flow. The shorter head-to-heart distance might be the reason for the lack of effect in ostriches. A siphon mechanism situated in the cranium is certainly possible, with a significant effect exerted on the amount of pressure the heart must generate to allow adequate cranial blood perfusion in a long-necked giraffe. The study validated that a cranial-bound siphon structure can operate and will be of significant value for adequate cranial blood perfusion in long-necked species such as giraffes and might also have existed in extinct species of long-necked dinosaurs.
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8
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Silberbauer BL, Strydom PE, Hoffman LC. An Exploratory Study into the Influence of Sex on Body Measurements, Carcass Weights and Meat Yields of Giraffe ( Giraffa camelopardalis angolensis). Foods 2021; 10:foods10102245. [PMID: 34681294 PMCID: PMC8534536 DOI: 10.3390/foods10102245] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Various body measurements and commercial carcass yields of relatively young (2½–6 yrs old) giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis angolensis) were investigated to quantify the effect of sex there upon. Eight male and eight female giraffe were culled by standard practice in Namibia, where body and horn measurements were taken, before the carcasses were dressed. There were no significant differences between the mean dead weights of the two sexes (bulls = 691.1 kg; cows = 636.5 kg; p = 0.096), the only body measurements found to differ significantly were those of the forelegs, with the shoulder to hoof (p = 0.046) and the knee to hoof (p = 0.025) both being significantly longer in the bulls. The horn measurements were all found to be significantly larger in the bulls than the cows even at this young age. The neck weight as a percentage of the carcass weight was found to be significantly heavier for the bulls compared to the cows, however, the back percentage values were significantly heavier in the cows than the bulls. There was a strong positive correlation between the body weight and most of the body lengths, as well as between most of the individual body measurements. The giraffe used had an average age of 3.7 years old, and had therefore not yet reached their growth plateau, which may be why sex had no influence on most of the body measurements recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca L. Silberbauer
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Phillip E. Strydom
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Louwrens C. Hoffman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.L.S.); (P.E.S.)
- Center for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Digital Agricultural Building, 8115, Office 110, Gatton 4343, Australia
- Correspondence:
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9
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Li A, Liu B, Li F, He Y, Wang L, Fakhar-E-Alam Kulyar M, Li H, Fu Y, Zhu H, Wang Y, Jiang X. Integrated Bacterial and Fungal Diversity Analysis Reveals the Gut Microbial Alterations in Diarrheic Giraffes. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:712092. [PMID: 34475863 PMCID: PMC8406688 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.712092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota has been demonstrated to be associated with multiple gastrointestinal diseases, but information regarding the gut microbial alternations in diarrheic giraffe remains scarce. Here, 16S rDNA and ITS gene amplicon sequencing were conducted to investigate the gut microbial composition and variability in diarrheic giraffes. Results demonstrated that Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the most dominant phyla in the gut bacterial community, whereas Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were observed to be predominant in the gut fungal community regardless of health status. However, the species and relative abundance of preponderant bacterial and fungal genera in healthy and diarrheic giraffes were different. In contrast to the relatively stabilized gut fungal community, gut bacterial community displayed a significant decrease in the alpha diversity, accompanied by distinct changes in taxonomic compositions. Bacterial taxonomic analysis revealed that the relative abundances of eight phyla and 12 genera obviously increased, whereas the relative abundances of two phyla and eight genera dramatically decreased during diarrhea. Moreover, the relative richness of five fungal genera significantly increased, whereas the relative richness of seven fungal genera significantly declined in diarrheic giraffes. Taken together, this study demonstrated that diarrhea could cause significant alternations in the gut microbial composition of giraffes, and the changes in the gut bacterial community were more significant than those in the gut fungal community. Additionally, investigating the gut microbial characteristics of giraffes in different health states is beneficial to provide a theoretical basis for establishing a prevention and treatment system for diarrhea from the gut microbial perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoyun Li
- Hubei Three Gorges Polytechnic, Yichang, China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bingxian Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feiran Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanyuan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Animal Husbandry Station of Bijie City, Bijie, China
| | | | - Huade Li
- Sichuan Academy of Grassland Science, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhang Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Huaisen Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiong Jiang
- Hubei Three Gorges Polytechnic, Yichang, China
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10
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Wells HBM, Crego RD, Opedal ØH, Khasoha LM, Alston JM, Reed CG, Weiner S, Kurukura S, Hassan AA, Namoni M, Ekadeli J, Kimuyu DM, Young TP, Kartzinel TR, Palmer TM, Pringle RM, Goheen JR. Experimental evidence that effects of megaherbivores on mesoherbivore space use are influenced by species' traits. J Anim Ecol 2021; 90:2510-2522. [PMID: 34192343 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The extinction of 80% of megaherbivore (>1,000 kg) species towards the end of the Pleistocene altered vegetation structure, fire dynamics and nutrient cycling world-wide. Ecologists have proposed (re)introducing megaherbivores or their ecological analogues to restore lost ecosystem functions and reinforce extant but declining megaherbivore populations. However, the effects of megaherbivores on smaller herbivores are poorly understood. We used long-term exclusion experiments and multispecies hierarchical models fitted to dung counts to test (a) the effect of megaherbivores (elephant and giraffe) on the occurrence (dung presence) and use intensity (dung pile density) of mesoherbivores (2-1,000 kg), and (b) the extent to which the responses of each mesoherbivore species was predictable based on their traits (diet and shoulder height) and phylogenetic relatedness. Megaherbivores increased the predicted occurrence and use intensity of zebras but reduced the occurrence and use intensity of several other mesoherbivore species. The negative effect of megaherbivores on mesoherbivore occurrence was stronger for shorter species, regardless of diet or relatedness. Megaherbivores substantially reduced the expected total use intensity (i.e. cumulative dung density of all species) of mesoherbivores, but only minimally reduced the expected species richness (i.e. cumulative predicted occurrence probabilities of all species) of mesoherbivores (by <1 species). Simulated extirpation of megaherbivores altered use intensity by mesoherbivores, which should be considered during (re)introductions of megaherbivores or their ecological proxies. Species' traits (in this case shoulder height) may be more reliable predictors of mesoherbivores' responses to megaherbivores than phylogenetic relatedness, and may be useful for predicting responses of data-limited species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry B M Wells
- Lolldaiga Hills Research Programme, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Sustainability Research Institute, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.,Space for Giants, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Ramiro D Crego
- National Zoo and Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Conservation Ecology Center, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | | | - Leo M Khasoha
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Program in Ecology, Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Jesse M Alston
- Program in Ecology, Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Center for Advanced Systems Understanding (CASUS), Görlitz, Germany
| | - Courtney G Reed
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Institute at Brown for Environment and Society, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sarah Weiner
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Program in Ecology, Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Duncan M Kimuyu
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Department of Natural Resources, Karatina University, Karatina, Kenya
| | - Truman P Young
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Department of Plant Sciences and Ecology Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Tyler R Kartzinel
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Institute at Brown for Environment and Society, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Todd M Palmer
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Robert M Pringle
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Jacob R Goheen
- Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya.,Program in Ecology, Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
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11
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Thompson KA, Eustace R, Mavangira V, Turner C, Monahan CF. Left displacement of the abomasum in a reticulated giraffe bull in managed care. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 33:1023-1027. [PMID: 34166129 DOI: 10.1177/10406387211027845] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A 10-y-old giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) bull developed colic after a 3-mo history of reduced feed consumption. Physical examination and management were performed with 2 standing sedations. The giraffe developed metabolic alkalosis and progressive pre-renal azotemia followed by compensatory respiratory acidosis and paradoxical aciduria. A metallic "ping" sound was auscultated on the left side near ribs 10-12. The giraffe was euthanized given the grave prognosis, and postmortem examination confirmed left displacement of the abomasum (LDA) with fluid sequestration (150-190 L [40-50 gal]) within the rumen. Dental disease was evident at postmortem examination and perimortem skull computed tomography. To ensure cases of LDA are not overlooked, the position of the abomasum must be noted during postmortem examination prior to removal of the gastrointestinal tract. The risk factors for the development of LDA in giraffes are not known, and associations such as those of dairy cattle (hypocalcemia, high-concentrate low-fiber diet, and indoor housing) remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A Thompson
- Binder Park Zoo, Battle Creek, MI, USA.,Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Ronan Eustace
- Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, USA.,Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Vengai Mavangira
- Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Colleen Turner
- Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Colleen F Monahan
- Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Lansing, MI, USA.,Current address: New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
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12
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Xi L, Song Y, Qin X, Han J, Chang YF. Microbiome Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Alternations in Gut Microbiota of Diarrheal Giraffa camelopardalis. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:649372. [PMID: 34124218 PMCID: PMC8192810 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.649372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The ruminant gut microbial community's importance has been widely acknowledged due to its positive roles in physiology, metabolism, and health maintenance. Diarrhea has been demonstrated to cause adverse effects on gastrointestinal health and intestinal microecosystem, but studies regarding diarrheal influence on gut microbiota in Giraffa camelopardalis have been insufficient to date. Here, this study was performed to investigate and compare gut microbial composition and variability between healthy and diarrheic G. camelopardalis. The results showed that the gut microbial community of diarrheal G. camelopardalis displayed a significant decrease in alpha diversity, accompanied by distinct alterations in taxonomic compositions. Bacterial taxonomic analysis indicated that the dominant bacterial phyla (Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes) and genera (Escherichia Shigella and Acinetobacter) of both groups were the same but different in relative abundance. Specifically, the proportion of Proteobacteria in the diarrheal G. camelopardalis was increased as compared with healthy populations, whereas Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Tenericutes, and Spirochaetes were significantly decreased. Moreover, the relative abundance of one bacterial genus (Comamonas) dramatically increased in diarrheic G. camelopardalis, whereas the relative richness of 18 bacterial genera decreased compared with healthy populations. Among them, two bacterial genera (Ruminiclostridium_5 and Blautia) cannot be detected in the gut bacterial community of diarrheal G. camelopardalis. In summary, this study demonstrated that diarrhea could significantly change the gut microbial composition and diversity in G. camelopardalis by increasing the proportion of pathogenic to beneficial bacteria. Moreover, this study first characterized the distribution of gut microbial communities in G. camelopardalis with different health states. It contributed to providing a theoretical basis for establishing a prevention and treatment system for G. camelopardalis diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xi
- Department of Animal Science, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, China.,Henan Engineering Research Center of Development and Application of Green Feed Additives, Shangqiu, China
| | - Yumin Song
- Linyi Agricultural Science and Technology Career Academy, Linyi, China
| | - Xinxi Qin
- Department of Animal Science, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, China
| | - Jincheng Han
- Department of Animal Science, Shangqiu Normal University, Shangqiu, China.,Henan Engineering Research Center of Development and Application of Green Feed Additives, Shangqiu, China
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University Ithaca, NY, United States
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13
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Bohner J, Bühler M, Bienert-Zeit A, Göritz F, Vogt C, Wohlsein P, Azogu-Sepe I. Complex Odontoma in a Young Captive Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata). J Comp Pathol 2021; 185:49-54. [PMID: 34119231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2021.04.004] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Complex odontoma is a rare odontogenic lesion reported in rodents (order: Rodentia) and odd-toed ungulates (order: Perissodactyla), to name a few, and only in bovine animals of the order Artiodactyla. A 3-year-old female giraffe presented with a steadily proliferating, firm mass in the rostral mandible. With further expansion and ulceration of the mass, the general condition of the giraffe deteriorated and it was euthanized. Post-mortem examination revealed greyish-white tissue with an irregular arrangement of yellowish hard tissue arranged in thin plates and intermingled areas of greyish soft tissue. Histologically, irregular proliferated odontogenic epithelium and mesenchyme, dentin, cementum and empty spaces, suggestive of decalcified enamel, were present. These findings are consistent with a diagnosis of complex odontoma, which should be added to the differential diagnoses of oral tissue proliferations in giraffes. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a complex odontoma in a giraffe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Bohner
- Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen GmbH, Hodenhagen, Germany
| | | | | | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Coimbra RTF, Winter S, Kumar V, Koepfli KP, Gooley RM, Dobrynin P, Fennessy J, Janke A. Whole-genome analysis of giraffe supports four distinct species. Curr Biol 2021; 31:2929-2938.e5. [PMID: 33957077 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [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: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Species is the fundamental taxonomic unit in biology and its delimitation has implications for conservation. In giraffe (Giraffa spp.), multiple taxonomic classifications have been proposed since the early 1900s.1 However, one species with nine subspecies has been generally accepted,2 likely due to limited in-depth assessments, subspecies hybridizing in captivity,3,4 and anecdotal reports of hybrids in the wild.5 Giraffe taxonomy received new attention after population genetic studies using traditional genetic markers suggested at least four species.6,7 This view has been met with controversy,8 setting the stage for debate.9,10 Genomics is significantly enhancing our understanding of biodiversity and speciation relative to traditional genetic approaches and thus has important implications for species delineation and conservation.11 We present a high-quality de novo genome assembly of the critically endangered Kordofan giraffe (G. camelopardalis antiquorum)12 and a comprehensive whole-genome analysis of 50 giraffe representing all traditionally recognized subspecies. Population structure and phylogenomic analyses support four separately evolving giraffe lineages, which diverged 230-370 ka ago. These lineages underwent distinct demographic histories and show different levels of heterozygosity and inbreeding. Our results strengthen previous findings of limited gene flow and admixture among putative giraffe species6,7,9 and establish a genomic foundation for recognizing four species and seven subspecies, the latter of which should be considered as evolutionary significant units. Achieving a consensus over the number of species and subspecies in giraffe is essential for adequately assessing their threat level and will improve conservation efforts for these iconic taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael T F Coimbra
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Sven Winter
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origins, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China; Center for Excellence in Life and Paleoenvironment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Klaus-Peter Koepfli
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA; Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Rebecca M Gooley
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA; Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Pavel Dobrynin
- Computer Technologies Laboratory, ITMO University, 49 Kronverkskiy Pr., Saint Petersburg 197101, Russia
| | - Julian Fennessy
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, PO Box 86099, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Axel Janke
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Max-von-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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15
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Dadone L, Olea-Popelka F, Stout E, Foxworth S, Klaphake E, Johnston MS, Han S, Barrett M. CLINICAL CONDITIONS FOUND RADIOGRAPHICALLY IN THE FRONT FEET OF RETICULATED GIRAFFE ( GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS RETICULATA) IN A SINGLE ZOO. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 50:528-38. [PMID: 33517621 DOI: 10.1638/2018-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Front foot radiographs from 22 giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) at one zoo were analyzed to better understand causes of lameness in this giraffe population. The herd had a history of front hoof overgrowth and intermittent lameness. Radiographic findings included distal interphalangeal joint osteoarthritis (OA), distal phalangeal bone (P3) osteitis, P3 fractures, P3 rotation, and sesamoid bone cysts. OA of the distal interphalangeal joint occurred in at least one front foot of 73% (16/22 giraffe) of the herd, and all giraffe had OA by 7 yr of age. Pedal osteitis was present in at least one front foot in 86% (19/22) of the giraffe, starting in animals as young as 1 yr old. P3 fractures were present in 36% (8/22) of the herd. These fractures were near the site of the deep digital flexor attachment and were diagnosed in giraffe as young as 10 yr old. The presence of severe osteitis was associated with the presence of P3 fractures. This study is unique in that a large herd was trained to participate in voluntary front foot radiographs so multiple causes of foot disease could be diagnosed antemortem and without anesthesia. Although the underlying causes of these lesions are likely multifactorial and currently unknown to us, the high prevalence of foot disease in relatively young animals warrants further investigation across zoos. In this study, OA, osteitis, and P3 fractures were common radiographic findings among giraffe that were limping. Subsequent monitoring and management changes suggest that proactive management of foot health can decrease morbidity and mortality in zoo giraffe.
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16
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Brandes S, Sicks F, Berger A. Behaviour Classification on Giraffes ( Giraffa camelopardalis) Using Machine Learning Algorithms on Triaxial Acceleration Data of Two Commonly Used GPS Devices and Its Possible Application for Their Management and Conservation. Sensors (Basel) 2021; 21:2229. [PMID: 33806750 PMCID: PMC8005050 DOI: 10.3390/s21062229] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Averting today's loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services can be achieved through conservation efforts, especially of keystone species. Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) play an important role in sustaining Africa's ecosystems, but are 'vulnerable' according to the IUCN Red List since 2016. Monitoring an animal's behavior in the wild helps to develop and assess their conservation management. One mechanism for remote tracking of wildlife behavior is to attach accelerometers to animals to record their body movement. We tested two different commercially available high-resolution accelerometers, e-obs and Africa Wildlife Tracking (AWT), attached to the top of the heads of three captive giraffes and analyzed the accuracy of automatic behavior classifications, focused on the Random Forests algorithm. For both accelerometers, behaviors of lower variety in head and neck movements could be better predicted (i.e., feeding above eye level, mean prediction accuracy e-obs/AWT: 97.6%/99.7%; drinking: 96.7%/97.0%) than those with a higher variety of body postures (such as standing: 90.7-91.0%/75.2-76.7%; rumination: 89.6-91.6%/53.5-86.5%). Nonetheless both devices come with limitations and especially the AWT needs technological adaptations before applying it on animals in the wild. Nevertheless, looking at the prediction results, both are promising accelerometers for behavioral classification of giraffes. Therefore, these devices when applied to free-ranging animals, in combination with GPS tracking, can contribute greatly to the conservation of giraffes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Brandes
- Institut für Biochemie und Biologie, University of Potsdam, Am Neuen Palais 10, 14469 Potsdam, Germany;
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo- and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Sicks
- Tierpark Berlin-Friedrichsfelde GmbH, Am Tierpark 125, 10319 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Anne Berger
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo- and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
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17
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Abstract
Studies increasingly show that social connectedness plays a key role in determining survival, in addition to natural and anthropogenic environmental factors. Few studies, however, integrated social, non-social and demographic data to elucidate what components of an animal's socio-ecological environment are most important to their survival. Female giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) form structured societies with highly dynamic group membership but stable long-term associations. We examined the relative contributions of sociability (relationship strength, gregariousness and betweenness), together with those of the natural (food sources and vegetation types) and anthropogenic environment (distance from human settlements), to adult female giraffe survival. We tested predictions about the influence of sociability and natural and human factors at two social levels: the individual and the social community. Survival was primarily driven by individual- rather than community-level social factors. Gregariousness (the number of other females each individual was observed with on average) was most important in explaining variation in female adult survival, more than other social traits and any natural or anthropogenic environmental factors. For adult female giraffes, grouping with more other females, even as group membership frequently changes, is correlated with better survival, and this sociability appears to be more important than several attributes of their non-social environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Bond
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Wild Nature Institute, Concord, NH, USA
| | - D E Lee
- Wild Nature Institute, Concord, NH, USA.,Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - D R Farine
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Collective Behavior, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz, Germany.,Center for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - A Ozgul
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - B König
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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18
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Schwarz S, Mensing N, Hörmann F, Schneider M, Baumgärtner W. Polyarthritis Caused by Acinetobacter kookii in a Rothschild's Giraffe Calf (Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi). J Comp Pathol 2020; 178:56-60. [PMID: 32800110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2020.06.015] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We report the first isolation of Acinetobacter kookii from a Rothschild's giraffe calf (Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi) that had severe polyarthritis. The isolate was resistant to more than one representative of each of four classes of antibiotics (penicillins, macrolides, lincosamides and tetracyclines). As A. kookii has not been previously associated with disease in humans or animals, it may be an emerging opportunistic pathogen posing a threat to immunocompromised patients. Furthermore, as transmission of Acinetobacter spp. with similar patterns of antimicrobial resistance has been previously reported in human and animal populations, special care should be taken when handling infected animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Schwarz
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - N Mensing
- Veterinary Practice Dr. Niels Mensing, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - F Hörmann
- Veterinary Practice Dr. Niels Mensing, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Schneider
- LABOKLIN GMBH & CO.KG, Bad Kissingen, Germany
| | - W Baumgärtner
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany.
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19
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Tighe AJ, Overby S, Thurman K, Gandola R, Fulanda B, Byrne J, Carlsson J. Investigating a simplified method for noninvasive genetic sampling in East African mammals using silica dried scat swabs. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:3330-3337. [PMID: 32273990 PMCID: PMC7141023 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6115] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Swabbing scat has proved to be an effective noninvasive method to collect DNA from mammals in the field. Previously, this method has relied on preservative liquids or freezing to preserve the DNA collected on swabs. In this study, we determine the effectiveness of using silica to simply dry the swab in field as an alternative way to prevent DNA degredation. Four species were included in the study; reticulated giraffe, impala, fringe-eared oryx, and lion. Swabs were taken at multiple time points for giraffe and impala scat samples, with the lion and oryx sampled opportunistically. Mitochondrial DNA was successfully amplified and sequenced from scat swabs from all species; however, effectiveness varied between species, with 81.8% amplification success rate from swabs taken from impala scat compared to 25% amplification success rate in giraffe. This variation in success rate was overcome by taking multiple swabs, thus increasing the probability of a successful amplification. The true merit of this method is in its simplicity and cheapness; no preservative liquids were required to be brought into the field, at no stage in the 2 weeks of field sampling were samples frozen, and no commercial kits were used for DNA extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Tighe
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Fish Health Unit Marine Institute Oranmore Ireland
| | - Sarah Overby
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
- Interdisciplinary Research Structure for Biotechnology and Biomedicine (ERI BIOTECMED) University of Valencia Valencia Spain
| | - Kiera Thurman
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Robert Gandola
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Bernerd Fulanda
- Department of Biological Sciences Pwani University Kilifi Kenya
| | - John Byrne
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Jens Carlsson
- Area 52 Research Group School of Biology and Environmental Science/Earth Institute University College Dublin Dublin Ireland
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20
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Burger AL, Fennessy J, Fennessy S, Dierkes PW. Nightly selection of resting sites and group behavior reveal antipredator strategies in giraffe. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:2917-2927. [PMID: 32211165 PMCID: PMC7083675 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study presents the first findings on nocturnal behavior patterns of wild Angolan giraffe. We characterized their nocturnal behavior and analyzed the influence of ecological factors such as group size, season, and habitat use. Giraffe were observed using night vision systems and thermal imaging cameras on Okapuka Ranch, Namibia. A total of 77 giraffe were observed during 24 nights over two distinct periods-July-August 2016 (dry season) and February-March 2017 (wet season). Photoperiod had a marked influence on their activity and moving behavior. At dusk, giraffe reduced the time spent moving and increasingly lay down and slept at the onset of darkness. Body postures that likely correspond to rapid eye movement (REM) sleep posture (RSP) were observed 15.8 ± 18.3 min after giraffe sat down. Season had a significant effect with longer RSP phases during the dry season (dry: 155.2 ± 191.1 s, n = 79; wet: 85.8 ± 94.9 s, n = 73). Further analyses of the influence of social behavior patterns did not show an effect of group size on RSP lengths. When a group of giraffe spent time at a specific resting site, several individuals were alert (vigilant) while other group members sat down or took up RSP. Simultaneous RSP events within a group were rarely observed. Resting sites were characterized by single trees or sparse bushes on open areas allowing for good visibility in a relatively sheltered location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lena Burger
- Bioscience Education and Zoo BiologyGoethe University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Julian Fennessy
- Giraffe Conservation FoundationWindhoekNamibia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | | | - Paul W. Dierkes
- Bioscience Education and Zoo BiologyGoethe University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
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21
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Farré M, Li Q, Darolti I, Zhou Y, Damas J, Proskuryakova AA, Kulemzina AI, Chemnick LG, Kim J, Ryder OA, Ma J, Graphodatsky AS, Zhang G, Larkin DM, Lewin HA. An integrated chromosome-scale genome assembly of the Masai giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi). Gigascience 2020; 8:5542321. [PMID: 31367745 PMCID: PMC6669057 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giz090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 03/09/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Masai giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) is the largest-bodied giraffe and the world's tallest terrestrial animal. With its extreme size and height, the giraffe's unique anatomical and physiological adaptations have long been of interest to diverse research fields. Giraffes are also critical to ecosystems of sub-Saharan Africa, with their long neck serving as a conduit to food sources not shared by other herbivores. Although the genome of a Masai giraffe has been sequenced, the assembly was highly fragmented and suboptimal for genome analysis. Herein we report an improved giraffe genome assembly to facilitate evolutionary analysis of the giraffe and other ruminant genomes. FINDINGS Using SOAPdenovo2 and 170 Gbp of Illumina paired-end and mate-pair reads, we generated a 2.6-Gbp male Masai giraffe genome assembly, with a scaffold N50 of 3 Mbp. The incorporation of 114.6 Gbp of Chicago library sequencing data resulted in a HiRise SOAPdenovo + Chicago assembly with an N50 of 48 Mbp and containing 95% of expected genes according to BUSCO analysis. Using the Reference-Assisted Chromosome Assembly tool, we were able to order and orient scaffolds into 42 predicted chromosome fragments (PCFs). Using fluorescence in situ hybridization, we placed 153 cattle bacterial artificial chromosomes onto giraffe metaphase spreads to assess and assign the PCFs on 14 giraffe autosomes and the X chromosome resulting in the final assembly with an N50 of 177.94 Mbp. In this assembly, 21,621 protein-coding genes were identified using both de novo and homology-based predictions. CONCLUSIONS We have produced the first chromosome-scale genome assembly for a Giraffidae species. This assembly provides a valuable resource for the study of artiodactyl evolution and for understanding the molecular basis of the unique adaptive traits of giraffes. In addition, the assembly will provide a powerful resource to assist conservation efforts of Masai giraffe, whose population size has declined by 52% in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Farré
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 0TU, UK.,School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Qiye Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China.,China National Genebank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Iulia Darolti
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 0TU, UK.,Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK.,Centre for Social Evolution, Department of Biology, Universitetsparken 15, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joana Damas
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 0TU, UK.,The Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Anastasia A Proskuryakova
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | | | - Leona G Chemnick
- San Diego Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Jaebum Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Jian Ma
- Computational Biology Department, School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Alexander S Graphodatsky
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.,Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Guoije Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China.,China National Genebank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China.,Centre for Social Evolution, Department of Biology, Universitetsparken 15, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Denis M Larkin
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London NW1 0TU, UK.,The Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, The Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Harris A Lewin
- The Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,Department of Evolution and Ecology, College of Biological Sciences, and the Department of Reproduction and Population Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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22
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D'haen M, Fennessy J, Stabach JA, Brandlová K. Population structure and spatial ecology of Kordofan giraffe in Garamba National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:11395-11405. [PMID: 31641481 PMCID: PMC6802069 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Population numbers of Kordofan giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis antiquorum) have declined throughout its range by more than 85% in the last three decades, including in the isolated easternmost population found in the Garamba National Park (NP) in the Democratic Republic of Congo.We provide new data on the conservation status and ecology of Kordofan giraffe in Garamba NP, specifically on the current population dynamics, distribution patterns, and spatial ecology for informed conservation management decisions.Data were gathered between September 26, 2016, and August 17, 2017, through direct observation and from eight GPS satellite collars deployed in early 2016. Movements, distribution patterns, and autocorrelated kernel density home ranges were estimated using the Continuous-Time Movement Modeling (CTMM) framework. We then compared results with home ranges calculated using the kernel density estimation (95% KDE) method.The Garamba NP population was estimated to be 45 giraffe with a female-dominated sex ratio (35% males; 65% females), and adult-dominated age class ratio (11.2% juveniles; 17.7% subadults; 71.1% adults). The giraffe's distribution was limited to the south-central sector of the Park, and giraffe were divided over different areas with some degree of connectivity. The average giraffe home range size was 934.3 km2 using AKDE and 268.8 km2 using KDE. Both methods have shown surprisingly large home ranges despite of the relatively high humidity of Garamba NP.Based on the outcomes of this research, urgent conservation action is needed to protect Garamba's remaining giraffe population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias D'haen
- Garamba National ParkNageroDemocratic Republic of the Congo
- African Parks NetworkJohannesburgSouth Africa
- Department of Animal Science and Food ProcessingFaculty of Tropical AgriSciencesCzech University of Life Sciences PraguePragueCzechia
| | | | - Jared A. Stabach
- Conservation Ecology CenterSmithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology InstituteFront RoyalVAUSA
| | - Karolína Brandlová
- Department of Animal Science and Food ProcessingFaculty of Tropical AgriSciencesCzech University of Life Sciences PraguePragueCzechia
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23
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Sasson-Yenor J, Powell DM. Assessment of contrafreeloading preferences in giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). Zoo Biol 2019; 38:414-423. [PMID: 31432564 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 08/26/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Contrafreeloading is an intriguing phenomenon in which animals will work to obtain resources, such as food, when the same resource is simultaneously freely available. Multiple hypotheses exist for why animals might choose to contrafreeload. In this study, we assessed preferences for contrafreeloading in giraffe at the Bronx Zoo to determine whether they actually preferred to contrafreeload or were simply demonstrating a willingness to contrafreeload. Food was presented in a range of distributions between an easily accessed feeding device and a more challenging one and the giraffes' feeding behavior at these two types of feeding devices was recorded. As the experiments progressed, more giraffe used these more challenging feeders. There was significant individual variation in the expression of preference for contrafreeloading and willingness to contrafreeload. Individual, phase of the experiment, and an interaction between these factors were significant predictors of challenge feeder use. Three foraging strategies emerged among the giraffe that we termed "freeloaders," "contrafreeloaders," and "opportunists." The results of this study demonstrate that multiple indices of preference are necessary when assessing contrafreeloading behavior, and that giraffe are affected to different degrees by the factors that stimulate contrafreeloading. These results may shed light on why different individuals use complex feeding enrichment devices to varying extents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David M Powell
- Department of Mammalogy, Wildlife Conservation Society/Bronx Zoo, New York, New York.,Department of Reproductive and Behavioral Sciences, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, Missouri
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24
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Takagi N, Saito M, Ito H, Tanaka M, Yamanashi Y. Sleep-related behaviors in zoo-housed giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata): Basic characteristics and effects of season and parturition. Zoo Biol 2019; 38:490-497. [PMID: 31389632 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite increasing interest in the behavior of zoo animals, studies of nocturnal behavior of zoo animals are limited. In this study, we investigated the relationship between parturition, season, and the sleep-related behaviors in captive reticulated giraffes to better understand the nocturnal life in giraffes. The subjects were two adult reticulated giraffes living in Kyoto City Zoo, Japan. Observations were made via an infrared camera that was mounted in the indoor enclosure between June 2007 and August 2009. We analyzed video clips that were recorded between 16:30 and 09:00 the next morning, over a total of 199 days. Sleep-related behaviors were classified into two categories based on the posture of the giraffes; recumbent posture and paradoxical sleep. We also recorded the laterality of recumbent posture, which was coded based on the direction of the legs against the torso (right or left). Seasonal differences in sleep behaviors between summer and winter were observed in both individuals. They tended to start to lie down earlier in the winter than in the summer. Parturition also affected the behaviors as both individuals decreased the behaviors before and after the parturition of the female. Additionally, the female lay on her left side less frequently than her right when resuming a recumbent posture in the pre-parturition period, while such laterality was not observed in the baseline and post-parturition period. These results suggested that season and parturition are important factors for determining the sleep-related behaviors in giraffes. Further studies are needed to understand how these changes in sleep affect other welfare parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Takagi
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife, Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Miho Saito
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Ito
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife, Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto, Japan.,Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tanaka
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife, Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto, Japan.,Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yumi Yamanashi
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife, Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto, Japan.,Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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25
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Jakob-Hoff R, Kingan M, Fenemore C, Schmid G, Cockrem JF, Crackle A, Bemmel EV, Connor R, Descovich K. Potential Impact of Construction Noise on Selected Zoo Animals. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E504. [PMID: 31370284 PMCID: PMC6721009 DOI: 10.3390/ani9080504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In anticipation of a major construction project in an urban New Zealand zoo, a study was initiated to assess the response to construction noise of selected animal species (elephant, giraffe, emu and alligator) previously observed to be sensitive to this kind of noise. The overall aim was to detect any signs of aversive responses to this noise to enable keepers to recognize these and take any necessary mitigating actions during the construction period. The experimental approach involved the creation of acoustic maps of each focal animal enclosure, a series of 90-min video recordings of the animals' behavior in response to ambient noise (control) and amplified broadcast of pre-recorded continuous and intermittent construction noise. Concentration of fecal corticosterone metabolites was also measured for the emus. Key findings were that giraffes, elephants and emus appeared to show an increase in behaviors that could indicate stress or agitation including vigilance and locomotion and may prefer quieter regions of their enclosure during sound exposure. Giraffes also increased close contact with conspecifics when exposed to construction noise. While alligators did not show clear evidence of noise-related stress, our findings indicated that all focal species showed some behavioral responses to recorded construction noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Jakob-Hoff
- New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine, Auckland Zoo, Auckland 1022, New Zealand.
| | - Michael Kingan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Chiaki Fenemore
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Gian Schmid
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - John F Cockrem
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Amanda Crackle
- New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine, Auckland Zoo, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
| | - Emily Van Bemmel
- School of Environmental and Animal Sciences, Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca Connor
- School of Environmental and Animal Sciences, Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Kris Descovich
- School of Environmental and Animal Sciences, Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Centre for Animal Welfare and Ethics, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland 4343, Australia
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26
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Delk KW, Mama KR, Rao S, Radcliffe RW, Lamberski N. COMPARISON OF ANESTHESIA OF ADULT GIRAFFE ( GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS) USING MEDETOMIDINE-KETAMINE WITH AND WITHOUT A POTENT OPIOID. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 50:457-60. [PMID: 31260214 DOI: 10.1638/2018-0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Two anesthetic protocols in adult giraffe were compared by retrospective study. Thirteen anesthesia records for medetomidine-ketamine (MK) and seven for medetomidine-ketamine with a potent opioid (MKO) were evaluated for differences in demographic, behavioral, drug, and respiratory parameters. Giraffe stood significantly more quickly with MKO vs MK though MK animals were physically restrained to preclude premature standing as part of normal recovery practices (5.5 min vs 21.4 min, P = 0.01). Regurgitation was recorded in 5/13 and resedation in 4/13 MK animals. The range of values for blood lactate was higher in MKO (5.18-11.25 mM/L) than in MK giraffe (0.78-6.08 mM/L). Despite limitations of a retrospective study, both MK and MKO giraffe anesthesia protocols exhibit benefits and side effects. Awareness and management of these factors will improve outcomes until standardized, prospective studies of giraffe immobilization offer more comprehensive guidance on protocol selection.
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27
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Krajewska-Wędzina M, Augustynowicz-Kopeć E, Weiner M, Szulowski K. Treatment for active tuberculosis in giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) in a Zoo and potential consequences for public health - Case report. Ann Agric Environ Med 2018; 25:593-595. [PMID: 30586985 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/75685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is an infectious disease that occurs in many species of both domestic and free-ranging animals, as well as animals kept in zoos. According to the Polish regulations, cattle tuberculosis are slaughtered and microbiological examinations are performed, the rest of animal species can be treated and laboratory diagnostics are not obligatory. CASE REPORT The presented case concerns two male giraffes which were purchased by the zoo and united with a third male. After a year, the oldest male died. Post mortem examinations confirmed generalized tuberculosis. After a further six months, the second male was euthanized after suffering great pain. The material for the study of drug resistance was a swab from the nose, obtained ante mortem from the third male. Attempted treatments did not produce the expected results. Genotyping allowed the exclusion of a common source of transmission. CONCLUSIONS The final effect of the anti-tuberculosis therapy in the male giraffe raises the question whether the research team should have undertaken the treatment of the animal with active tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewa Augustynowicz-Kopeć
- Department of Microbiology, National Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Weiner
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education, Biala Podlaska, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Szulowski
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland
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28
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Winter S, Fennessy J, Janke A. Limited introgression supports division of giraffe into four species. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:10156-10165. [PMID: 30397455 PMCID: PMC6206193 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
All giraffe (Giraffa) were previously assigned to a single species (G. camelopardalis) and nine subspecies. However, multi-locus analyses of all subspecies have shown that there are four genetically distinct clades and suggest four giraffe species. This conclusion might not be fully accepted due to limited data and lack of explicit gene flow analyses. Here, we present an extended study based on 21 independent nuclear loci from 137 individuals. Explicit gene flow analyses identify less than one migrant per generation, including between the closely related northern and reticulated giraffe. Thus, gene flow analyses and population genetics of the extended dataset confirm four genetically distinct giraffe clades and support four independent giraffe species. The new findings support a revision of the IUCN classification of giraffe taxonomy. Three of the four species are threatened with extinction, and mostly occurring in politically unstable regions, and as such, require the highest conservation support possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Winter
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research CentreFrankfurt am MainGermany
- Institute for Ecology, Evolution and DiversityGoethe UniversityFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | | | - Axel Janke
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research CentreFrankfurt am MainGermany
- Institute for Ecology, Evolution and DiversityGoethe UniversityFrankfurt am MainGermany
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29
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Normando S, Pollastri I, Florio D, Ferrante L, Macchi E, Isaja V, de Mori B. Assessing Animal Welfare in Animal-Visitor Interactions in Zoos and Other Facilities. A Pilot Study Involving Giraffes. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:E153. [PMID: 30200194 PMCID: PMC6162555 DOI: 10.3390/ani8090153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, awareness of the controversial aspects connected with wild animal-visitor interactions (AVIs) in zoos and other facilities has increased due to cultural changes. Therefore, the need to apply transparent procedures to evaluate AVIs programs in zoos and similar facilities has also increased. This study presents results of animal welfare's assessment of a pilot test of a protocol based on six steps that aim to explore and assess the overall value of AVIs considering the impact both on animals and visitors. In the present paper, we discuss the multifaceted approach to animal welfare assessment during animal-visitor interactions, combining quantitative behavioural observations/analysis and a welfare risk-assessment procedure, which forms the basis of the six-step protocol. Pilot testing of said approach to animal welfare assessment involved giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) in an Italian zoo. No change in behaviour, suggestive of an increased welfare risk to the animals, was found. The risk analysis reported overall low risks for welfare, whereas enclosure analysis highlighted that the enclosure was suitable for allowing interactions without jeopardising animal welfare, mainly because it allowed animals to choose whether to interact or withdraw from interactions without decreasing the space available to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020 Legnaro, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Department of Veterinary Science, Università degli Studi di Torino, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy.
| | - Daniela Florio
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Linda Ferrante
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020 Legnaro, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Macchi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020 Legnaro, Italy.
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30
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Schüßler D, Greven H. Quantitative aspects of the ruminating process in giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) fed with different diets. Zoo Biol 2017; 36:407-412. [PMID: 29134672 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [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: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Giraffes are ruminants feeding on fresh browse and twigs in the wild, but in zoos, their diet is mainly based on alfalfa hay, grains, and pellets occasionally supplemented by twigs and foliage. These diets, which differ in composition and digestibility, affect the behavior of the animals, tooth wear patterns, and chewing efficiency. We quantified several parameters of the rumination process in ten zoo housed giraffes of different sexes and ages fed either with alfalfa hay, fresh browse, or a combination of both. Chewing during rumination was highly ritualized and specimens showed an even distribution of chewing directions during this process, which prevents uneven tooth wear and use of chewing muscles. During rumination of alfalfa hay, chewing cycles of the giraffes took on average 49 s and included 54 jaw movements compared to 37 s and 42 jaw movements during rumination of browse, respectively. Single jaw movements (measured as basic chewing rates) were on average significantly slower during rumination of alfalfa hay (alfalfa: 1.10 chews per second, browse: 1.17 chews per second) and intercycle times between two chewing cycles took significantly longer (alfalfa: 7.77 s, browse: 7.46 s). Our results clearly indicate that several rumination parameters are influenced by the type of diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Schüßler
- Department Biology, University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hartmut Greven
- Department Biology, University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, Düsseldorf, Germany
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31
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Nyman G, Röken B, Hedin EM, Hedenstierna G. Case Studies in Physiology: Ventilation and perfusion in a giraffe-does size matter? J Appl Physiol (1985) 2016; 121:1374-1378. [PMID: 27660298 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00428.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 05/06/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The trachea in the giraffe is long but narrow, and dead space ventilation is considered to be of approximately the same size as in other mammals. Less is known about the matching between ventilation and lung blood flow. The lungs in the giraffe are large, up to 1 m high and 0.7 m wide, and this may cause considerable ventilation/perfusion (VA/Q) mismatch due to the influence of gravitational forces, which could lead to hypoxemia. We studied a young giraffe under anesthesia using the multiple inert gas elimination technique to analyze the VA/Q distribution and arterial oxygenation and compared the results with those obtained in other species of different sizes, including humans. VA/Q distribution was broad but unimodal, and the shunt of blood flow through nonventilated lung regions was essentially absent, suggesting no lung collapse. The VA/Q match was as good as in the similarly sized horse and was even comparable to that in smaller sized animals, including rabbit and rat. The match was also similar to that in anesthetized humans. Arterial oxygenation was essentially similar in all studied species. The findings suggest that the efficiency of VA/Q matching is independent of lung size in the studied mammals that vary in weight from less than 1 to more than 400 kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Görel Nyman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bengt Röken
- Kolmården Wild Animal Park, Kolmården, Sweden
| | - Eva-Maria Hedin
- Department of Medical Sciences, Cardiology-Arrhythmia, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; and
| | - Göran Hedenstierna
- Hedenstierna Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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32
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Basu C, Stoll AL, Dixon J, Molenaar FM, Flach E, Smith KC. OSTEOCHONDROSIS IN THE DISTAL FEMURS OF AN ADULT RETICULATED GIRAFFE (GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS RETICULATA): MACROSCOPIC, RADIOLOGIC, AND HISTOLOGIC FINDINGS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2016; 47:359-63. [PMID: 27010303 DOI: 10.1638/2015-0076.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
An adult male reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) was presented for postmortem examination. During radiologic examination of the hindlimbs, osseous cyst-like lesions were detected in both medial femoral condyles. These lesions were subsequently examined macroscopically and histologically. The gross appearance suggested a diagnosis of bilateral osteochondrosis that was confirmed with histopathologic examination. This finding has not previously been reported in giraffes. Macroscopic visualization of the major limb joints, including the femorotibial joints, is therefore encouraged in future postmortem examinations of giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis), and further assessment of clinical significance is required.
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33
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Gunji M, Endo H. Functional cervicothoracic boundary modified by anatomical shifts in the neck of giraffes. R Soc Open Sci 2016; 3:150604. [PMID: 26998330 PMCID: PMC4785981 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.150604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Here we examined the kinematic function of the morpho- logically unique first thoracic vertebra in giraffes. The first thoracic vertebra of the giraffe displayed similar shape to the seventh cervical vertebra in general ruminants. The flexion experiment using giraffe carcasses demonstrated that the first thoracic vertebra exhibited a higher dorsoventral mobility than other thoracic vertebrae. Despite the presence of costovertebral joints, restriction in the intervertebral movement imposed by ribs is minimized around the first thoracic vertebra by subtle changes of the articular system between the vertebra and ribs. The attachment area of musculus longus colli, mainly responsible for ventral flexion of the neck, is partly shifted posteriorly in the giraffe so that the force generated by muscles is exerted on the cervical vertebrae and on the first thoracic vertebra. These anatomical modifications allow the first thoracic vertebra to adopt the kinematic function of a cervical vertebra in giraffes. The novel movable articulation in the thorax functions as a fulcrum of neck movement and results in a large displacement of reachable space in the cranial end of the neck. The unique first thoracic vertebra in giraffes provides higher flexibility to the neck and may provide advantages for high browsing and/or male competition behaviours specific to giraffes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megu Gunji
- The University Museum, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
- Department of Global Agricultural Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Hideki Endo
- The University Museum, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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34
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Selig M, Lewandowski A, Burton MS, Ball RL. MANAGEMENT OF OMPHALOPHLEBITIS AND UMBILICAL HERNIA IN THREE NEONATAL GIRAFFE (GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2015; 46:938-40. [PMID: 26667556 DOI: 10.1638/2015-0036.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Umbilical disorders, including omphalophlebitis, omphaloarteritis, external umbilical abscesses, urachal abscesses, patent urachus, and umbilical hernias, represent a significant challenge to the health and well-being of a neonate. The three neonatal giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) in this report were evaluated for umbilical swellings. Two developed omphalophlebitis, and one had an uncomplicated umbilical hernia. Omphalophlebitis is an inflammation and/or infection of the umbilical vein. Giraffe calves with a failure of passive transfer may be predisposed and should be thoroughly evaluated for the condition. Umbilical hernias result from a failure of the umbilical ring to close after parturition or from malformation of the umbilical ring during embryogenesis. These problems were surgically corrected for all three individuals, although one died due to postsurgical complications. The risks involved include anesthetic complications, surgical dehiscence, and maternal rejection. Early detection and surgical intervention are recommended for the correction of omphalophlebitis and umbilical hernias in neonatal giraffe.
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35
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Danowitz M, Domalski R, Solounias N. The cervical anatomy of Samotherium, an intermediate-necked giraffid. R Soc Open Sci 2015; 2:150521. [PMID: 26716010 PMCID: PMC4680625 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.150521] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Giraffidae are represented by many extinct species. The only two extant taxa possess diametrically contrasting cervical morphology, as the okapi is short-necked and the giraffe is exceptionally long-necked. Samotherium major, known from the Late Miocene of Samos in Greece and other Eurasian localities, is a key extinct giraffid; it possesses cervical vertebrae that are intermediate in the evolutionary elongation of the neck. We describe detailed anatomical features of the cervicals of S. major, and compare these characteristics with the vertebrae of the two extant giraffid taxa. Based on qualitative morphological characters and a quantitative analysis of cervical dimensions, we find that the S. major neck is intermediate between that of the okapi and the giraffe. Specifically, the more cranial (C2-C3) vertebrae of S. major represent a mosaic of features shared either with the giraffe or with the okapi. The more caudal (C5-C7) S. major vertebrae, however, appear transitional between the two extant taxa, and hence are more unique. Notably, the C6 of S. major exhibits a partially excavated ventral lamina that is strong cranially but completely absent on the caudal half of the ventral vertebral body, features between those seen in the giraffe and the okapi. Comprehensive anatomical descriptions and measurements of the almost-complete cervical column reveal that S. major is a truly intermediate-necked giraffid. Reconstructions of the neck display our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Danowitz
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, 8000 Northern Boulevard, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Rebecca Domalski
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, 8000 Northern Boulevard, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Nikos Solounias
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, 8000 Northern Boulevard, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
- Department of Paleontology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024, USA
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Baotic A, Sicks F, Stoeger AS. Nocturnal "humming" vocalizations: adding a piece to the puzzle of giraffe vocal communication. BMC Res Notes 2015; 8:425. [PMID: 26353836 PMCID: PMC4565008 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-015-1394-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research reveals that giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis sp.) exhibit a socially structured, fission-fusion system. In other species possessing this kind of society, information exchange is important and vocal communication is usually well developed. But is this true for giraffes? Giraffes are known to produce sounds, but there is no evidence that they use vocalizations for communication. Reports on giraffe vocalizations are mainly anecdotal and the missing acoustic descriptions make it difficult to establish a call nomenclature. Despite inconclusive evidence to date, it is widely assumed that giraffes produce infrasonic vocalizations similar to elephants. In order to initiate a more detailed investigation of the vocal communication in giraffes, we collected data of captive individuals during day and night. We particularly focussed on detecting tonal, infrasonic or sustained vocalizations. FINDINGS We collected over 947 h of audio material in three European zoos and quantified the spectral and temporal components of acoustic signals to obtain an accurate set of acoustic parameters. Besides the known burst, snorts and grunts, we detected harmonic, sustained and frequency-modulated "humming" vocalizations during night recordings. None of the recorded vocalizations were within the infrasonic range. CONCLUSIONS These results show that giraffes do produce vocalizations, which, based on their acoustic structure, might have the potential to function as communicative signals to convey information about the physical and motivational attributes of the caller. The data further reveal that the assumption of infrasonic communication in giraffes needs to be considered with caution and requires further investigations in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Baotic
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstr. 14, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Florian Sicks
- Berlin Tierpark, Am Tierpark 125, 10319, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Angela S Stoeger
- Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstr. 14, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Roggenbuck M, Sauer C, Poulsen M, Bertelsen MF, Sørensen SJ. The giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) rumen microbiome. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2014; 90:237-46. [PMID: 25087453 DOI: 10.1111/1574-6941.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 03/11/2014] [Revised: 07/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that wild ruminants are sources of previously undescribed microorganisms, knowledge of which can improve our understanding of the complex microbial interactions in the foregut. Here, we investigated the microbial community of seven wild-caught giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis), three of which were fed natural browse and four were fed Boskos pellets, leafy alfalfa hay, and cut savanna browse, by characterizing the 16S rRNA gene diversity using 454 FLX high-throughput sequencing. The microbial community composition varied according to diet, but differed little between the ruminal fluid and solid fraction. The giraffe rumen contained large levels of the phyla of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes independent of diet, while Prevotella, Succinclasticium, and Methanobrevibacter accounted for the largest abundant taxonomic assigned genera. However, up to 21% of the generated sequences could not been assigned to any known bacterial phyla, and c. 70% not to genus, revealing that the giraffe rumen hosts a variety of previously undescribed bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Roggenbuck
- Department of Biology, Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen O, Denmark
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Seeber PA, Duncan P, Fritz H, Ganswindt A. Androgen changes and flexible rutting behaviour in male giraffes. Biol Lett 2013; 9:20130396. [PMID: 23925833 PMCID: PMC3971675 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2013.0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The social organization of giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) imposes a high-cost reproductive strategy on bulls, which adopt a 'roving male' tactic. Our observations on wild giraffes confirm that bulls indeed have unsynchronized rut-like periods, not unlike another tropical megaherbivore, the elephant, but on a much shorter timescale. We found profound changes in male sexual and social activities at the scale of about two weeks. This so far undescribed rutting behaviour is closely correlated with changes in androgen concentrations and appears to be driven by them. The short time scale of the changes in sexual and social activity may explain why dominance and reproductive status in male giraffe in the field seem to be unstable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Seeber
- Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Production Animal Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Patrick Duncan
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, CNRS UPR 1934, 79360 Beauvoir-sur-Niort, France
| | - Hervé Fritz
- CNRS/Université de Lyon 1, LBBE, UMR5558, 69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - André Ganswindt
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
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