Detection of oocysts of Cryptosporidium in several species of monkeys and in one prosimian species at the Barcelona Zoo

Occurrence and Genetic Diversity of Protist Parasites in Captive Non-Human Primates, Zookeepers, and Free-Living Sympatric Rats in the Córdoba Zoo Conservation Centre, Southern Spain

Little information is currently available on the epidemiology of parasitic and commensal protist species in captive non-human primates (NHP) and their zoonotic potential. This study investigates the occurrence, molecular diversity, and potential transmission dynamics of parasitic and commensal protist species in a zoological garden in southern Spain. The prevalence and genotypes of the main enteric protist species were investigated in faecal samples from NHP (n = 51), zookeepers (n = 19) and free-living rats (n = 64) by molecular (PCR and sequencing) methods between 2018 and 2019. The presence of Leishmania spp. was also investigated in tissues from sympatric rats using PCR. Blastocystis sp. (45.1%), Entamoeba dispar (27.5%), Giardia duodenalis (21.6%), Balantioides coli (3.9%), and Enterocytozoon bieneusi (2.0%) (but not Troglodytella spp.) were detected in NHP. Giardia duodenalis (10.5%) and Blastocystis sp. (10.5%) were identified in zookeepers, while Cryptosporidium spp. (45.3%), G. duodenalis (14.1%), and Blastocystis sp. (6.25%) (but not Leishmania spp.) were detected in rats. Blastocystis ST1, ST3, and ST8 and G. duodenalis sub-assemblage AII were identified in NHP, and Blastocystis ST1 in zookeepers. Giardia duodenalis isolates failed to be genotyped in human samples. In rats, four Cryptosporidium (C. muris, C. ratti, and rat genotypes IV and V), one G. duodenalis (assemblage G), and three Blastocystis (ST4) genetic variants were detected. Our results indicate high exposure of NHP to zoonotic protist species. Zoonotic transmission of Blastocysts ST1 was highly suspected between captive NHP and zookeepers.

Biodiversity of the Coccidia (Apicomplexa: Conoidasida) in vertebrates: what we know, what we do not know, and what needs to be done

Over the last two decades my colleagues and I have assembled the literature on a good percentage of most of the coccidians (Conoidasida) known, to date, to parasitise: Amphibia, four major lineages of Reptilia (Amphisbaenia, Chelonia, Crocodylia, Serpentes), and seven major orders in the Mammalia (Carnivora, Chiroptera, Lagomorpha, Insectivora, Marsupialia, Primates, Scandentia). These vertebrates, combined, comprise about 15,225 species; only about 899 (5.8%) of them have been surveyed for coccidia and 1,946 apicomplexan valid species names or other forms are recorded in the literature. Based on these compilations and other factors, I extrapolated that there yet may be an additional 31,381 new apicomplexans still to be discovered in just these 12 vertebrate groups. Extending the concept to all of the other extant vertebrates on Earth; i.e. lizards (6,300 spp.), rodents plus 12 minor orders of mammals (3,180 spp.), birds (10,000 spp.), and fishes (33,000 spp.) and, conservatively assuming only two unique apicomplexan species per each vertebrate host species, I extrapolate and extend my prediction that we may eventually find 135,000 new apicomplexans that still need discovery and to be described in and from those vertebrates that have not yet been examined for them! Even doubling that number is a significant underestimation in my opinion.

Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encephalitozoon spp. and Giardia intestinalis in Wild, Semi-Wild and Captive Orangutans (Pongo abelii and Pongo pygmaeus) on Sumatra and Borneo, Indonesia

Background

Orangutans are critically endangered primarily due to loss and fragmentation of their natural habitat. This could bring them into closer contact with humans and increase the risk of zoonotic pathogen transmission.

Aims

To describe the prevalence and diversity of Cryptosporidium spp., microsporidia and Giardia intestinalis in orangutans at seven sites on Sumatra and Kalimantan, and to evaluate the impact of orangutans’ habituation and location on the occurrence of these zoonotic protists.

Result

The overall prevalence of parasites in 298 examined animals was 11.1%. The most prevalent microsporidia was Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype II, found in 21 animals (7.0%). Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotype D (n = 5) and novel genotype Pongo 2 were detected only in six individuals (2.0%). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of these parasites in orangutans. Eight animals were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. (2.7%), including C. parvum (n = 2) and C. muris (n = 6). Giardia intestinalis assemblage B, subtype MB6, was identified in a single individual. While no significant differences between the different human contact level groups (p = 0.479–0.670) or between the different islands (p = 0.992) were reported in case of E. bieneusi or E. cuniculi, Cryptosporidium spp. was significantly less frequently detected in wild individuals (p < 2×10⁻¹⁶) and was significantly more prevalent in orangutans on Kalimantan than on Sumatra (p < 2×10⁻¹⁶).

Conclusion

Our results revealed that wild orangutans are significantly less frequently infected by Cryptosporidium spp. than captive and semi-wild animals. In addition, this parasite was more frequently detected at localities on Kalimantan. In contrast, we did not detect any significant difference in the prevalence of microsporidia between the studied groups of animals. The sources and transmission modes of infections were not determined, as this would require repeated sampling of individuals, examination of water sources, and sampling of humans and animals sharing the habitat with orangutans.

Environmental and physiological factors contributing to outbreaks of cryptosporidium in Coquerel's sifaka (Propithecus coquereli) at the Duke Lemur Center: 1999-2007

This population-based, retrospective study examined the susceptibility of a prosimian primate, Coquerel's sifaka (Propithecus coquereli), to Cryptosporidium spp. over a 9-yr period from 1999 to 2007 at the Duke Lemur Center (DLC) located in Durham, North Carolina. The investigation examined potential epidemiologic risk factors that could be correlated to infectious outbreaks at the center, such as prevalence, signalment (species, age, and sex), seasonality of occurrence, recurrence rate, family lineage, parturition, clinical signs, and concurrent diseases or health conditions. Findings included Propithecus spp. being the only lemur species at the DLC showing clinical signs of infection, with age being an important factor in susceptibility, and showing a strong correlation between temperature and seasonality with shedding of Cryptosporidium oocysts. These findings present new information regarding cryptosporidiosis in captive prosimians.

Gastrointestinal protozoa in non-human primates of four zoological gardens in Belgium

Gastrointestinal parasites are important infectious causes of diarrhoea in captive non-human primates (NHP). However, prevalence data of gastrointestinal parasites in zoological gardens are scarce. Therefore, a cross-sectional survey was conducted to estimate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in NHP of four zoological gardens in Belgium. Between August 2004 and April 2006, 910 faecal samples were collected from 222 animals housed in 39 groups. The 31 species involved were representatives of prosimians, New World (NW) monkeys, Old World (OW) monkeys and apes. Because individual sampling was impossible, a statistical simulation was performed to estimate a sufficient sample size. All samples were microscopically examined after an acetic acid-ether concentration. Differences in host species susceptibility were examined by non-parametric tests. Entamoeba spp. (44%) and Giardia spp. (41%) were the most prevalent species. Other parasites detected were Endolimax nana (36%), Chilomastix mesnili (21%), Balantidium coli (13%), Trichuris spp. (10%), Iodamoeba bütschlii (5%) and Strongyloides spp. (5%). Parasites for which a significant difference in susceptibility at the level of host taxonomy was noted were Entamoeba spp. (p<0.001) and C. mesnili (p<0.05). Samples containing Entamoeba spp. were the most prevalent in OW monkeys (p<0.0083). Samples collected from OW monkeys contained the highest number of parasite species (p<0.0083).

Giardia and Cryptosporidium in mammalian wildlife--current status and future needs

Environmental pollution with human and domestic-animal fecal material is recognized as a potential pathogen pathway for wildlife infections with zooanthropomorphic protozoan parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. In this article, we review current knowledge about the diversity of free-living and captive terrestrial and marine mammalian wildlife species infected with Giardia and Cryptosporidium. The combination of prevalence studies with modern molecular-genotyping techniques is providing valuable insights into the host specificity and possible transmission routes of these two important parasites.

CRYPTOSPORIDIUM SPP. IN RUMINANTS AT THE LISBON ZOO

Feces from 34 species of ruminants housed at the Lisbon Zoo was examined for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. Three hundred and eighty-eight samples were analyzed. Three hundred and eighty species-specific group fecal samples were collected monthly, from September 1998 until August 1999, along with eight individual specimens from eight neonates. All samples were examined by four different techniques: microscopic observation of direct and concentrated fecal smears, staining with modified Ziehl-Nielsen, immunofluorescent assay, and immunoenzymatic assay. The prevalence of infection was 3.6%. Five neonates with diarrhea were infected. Cryptosporidial oocysts were shed more frequently during winter months. Some facilities may have permitted oocysts to remain viable, possibly contributing to cryptosporidial transmission between animals.

Molecular and morphologic characterization of a Cryptosporidium genotype identified in lemurs

This study reports the molecular and morphologic characterization of a Cryptosporidium sp., identified in stools of captive lemurs Propithecus verreauxi coquereli. Stool samples were collected from seven animals (n=7) presenting episodes of diarrhea. Bright-field light microscopy of stool smears stained with modified acid-fast technique revealed the presence of Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts in four of the stool samples analyzed. All microscopically positive samples were confirmed by PCR using primers designed to amplify DNA fragments from two independent loci, i.e. the Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein (COWP) gene and the small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssrRNA) gene. Phylogenetic analysis based on the full-length ssrRNA gene placed this isolate within a clade that contains all currently known C. parvum species/genotypes, closely related to the C. parvum pig genotype. Comparison with partial ssrRNA sequences available in the GenBank revealed 100% sequence identity with the genotype previously identified in Canadian patients. This finding was confirmed further by comparison of the COWP gene partial sequences.

Transmission dynamics of Cryptosporidium in primates and herbivores at the Barcelona zoo: a long-term study

Factors influencing the transmission of Cryptosporidium in primates and herbivores housed at the Barcelona zoo have been analyzed. The relationship between continuous and discontinuous oocyst shedding, both animal housing conditions and abiotic factors (seasonality, humidity, temperature) was examined to explain the epizootiology of the protozoan. Thirty six fecal samples from each of 11 primates (Pongidae, Cebidae, Cercopithecidae and Lemuridae) and 22 herbivores (Elephantidae, Camelidae, Cervidae, Giraffidae and Bovidae) were examined over the period of 1 year. The parasite transmission was based on the chronic infection status of some animals serving as a source of successive reinfection for other animals. The environmental temperature and humidity (seasonality), the physical features of the facilities, the vicinity of the animals and the physiological status induced by captivity contributed to transmission. The long-term character of this study was essential for obtaining these results and interpreting the complex relationships.

Epidemiology of Cryptosporidium: transmission, detection and identification

There are 10 valid species of Cryptosporidium and perhaps other cryptic species hidden under the umbrella of Cryptosporidium parvum. The oocyst stage is of primary importance for the dispersal, survival, and infectivity of the parasite and is of major importance for detection and identification. Because most oocysts measure 4-6 microm, appear nearly spherical, and have obscure internal structures, there are few or no morphometric features to differentiate species and in vitro cultivation does not provide differential data as for bacteria. Consequently, we rely on a combination of data from three tools: morphometrics, molecular techniques, and host specificity. Of 152 species of mammals reported to be infected with C. parvum or an indistinguishable organism, very few oocysts have ever been examined using more than one of these tools. This paper reviews the valid species of Cryptosporidium, their hosts and morphometrics; the reported hosts for the human pathogen, C. parvum; the mechanisms of transmission; the drinking water, recreational water, and food-borne outbreaks resulting from infection with C. parvum; and the microscopic, immunological, and molecular methods used to detect and identify species and genotypes.

Secnidazole vs. paromomycin: comparative antiprotozoan treatment in captive primates

The antiprotozoan activity of secnidazole was studied in Cercocebus t. torquatus, Cercopithecus campbelli, Erythrocebus patas (Cercopithecidae), and Gorilla gorilla (Pongidae) compared with that of paromomycin in Cercocebus t. lunulatus (Cercopithecidae), E. patas, and G. gorilla (Pongidae) by coprological analysis. The antiprotozoan activity of both drugs depended on the parasite species and the host species. The drugs acted in a similar way on Entamoeba coli parasitising C. t. torquatus, and E. patas. This activity was different from that observed on I. buestchlii from the same host species. Nevertheless, E. coli parasitising cercopithecids and pongids responded to drugs differently.

The presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in stools of clinically diarrhoeic and normal nonhuman primates in Kenya

A total of 114 nonhuman primates comprising 51 vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) and 63 olive baboons (Papio anubis) were examined for Cryptosporidium oocysts using the modified Kinyoun's acid-fast staining technique. About 51.7% (59/114) of all the specimens examined, representing 78.4% (40/51) of the vervet monkeys and 30.1% (19/63) of the olive baboons were positive. Bright red, refractile Cryptosporidium oocysts were observed in the stained faecal smears against a blue background. Up to 4/6 (66.7%) of the diarrhoeic vervets and 2/3 (66.7%) baboons, respectively, were positive while the rest were negative. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first on cryptosporidiosis in old world nonhuman primates in Kenya and probably the first report of the infection in olive baboons. Given the high frequency of oocysts in diarrhoeal specimens, the parasite may have been associated with clinical diarrhoea in the sampled animals. Cryptosporidium, which has been reported in humans in Kenya, is also suspected to occur in livestock. Its isolation from clinically ill, normal colony-borne and newly caught feral nonhuman primates has significant implications for both public health and animal agriculture in Kenya.

A survey for Cryptosporidium spp. in mammals at the Barcelona Zoo

Mammals housed at the Barcelona Zoo belonging to the orders Carnivora, Artiodactyla, Perissodactyla and Proboscidea were examined for Cryptosporidium infections. A total of 183 fecal samples from 17 carnivores and 34 herbivores revealed patent infections in only 6 herbivore species (5 artiodactyls of the families Bovidae and Giraffidae and 1 perissodactyl of the family Rhinocerotidae); all carnivores were negative. Intensity of infection was found to be generally low. Connochaetes taurinus taurinus, Gazella dorcas neglecta, Kobus ellipsiprymmus and Giraffa camelopardalis constitute new host species for the parasite.