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Herzog I, Wohlsein P, Preuss A, Gorb SN, Pigeault R, Ewers C, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Siebert U, Lehnert K. Heartworm and seal louse: Trends in prevalence, characterisation of impact and transmission pathways in a unique parasite assembly on seals in the North and Baltic Sea. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100898. [PMID: 38283886 PMCID: PMC10818207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic seal louse, Echinophthirius horridus infects harbour (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the North and Baltic Sea. The endoparasitic heartworm Acanthocheilonema spirocauda parasitizes the right heart and blood vessels of harbour seals. The complete lifecycle of the heartworm is not entirely understood although the seal louse is assumed to serve as vector for its transmission. Knowledge about the impact of both parasite species on host health are scarce. In this study, necropsy data and archived parasites of harbour and grey seals in German waters were analysed to determine long-term seal louse (SLP) and heartworm prevalence (HWP) from 2014 to 2021. Histology, microbiology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied on seal louse infected and uninfected skin to investigate associated lesions and the health impact. During the study period, HWP in harbour seals was 13%, the SLP in harbour seals was 4% and in grey seals 10%. HWP of harbour seals was significantly higher during the winter months compared to the summer. SLP in adults was significantly higher in comparison to juvenile harbour seals. SLP varied significantly between grey seals from the North and Baltic Sea. Filarial nematodes were detected in the haemocoel, pharynx, and intestine of E. horridus highlighting the seal louse as vector for heartworms. Alopecia and folliculitis were associated with the attachment posture of E. horridus and microbiological investigations isolated bacteria commonly associated with folliculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Insa Herzog
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 2, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anika Preuss
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Stanislav N. Gorb
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Rémi Pigeault
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute of the University of Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1–9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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2
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Sarlin PJ, Morris S, Geethambika SB, Gopi L, Muraleedharan M, Thomas JA, Savitha G, Joseph P. Halocercus lagenorhynchi infection in a stranded striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba (Meyen, 1833) on the Southwest coastline of India. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:168-179. [PMID: 38440750 PMCID: PMC10908710 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01646-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Necropsy on a striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba (Meyen, 1833) entangled in ghost fishing net and dead while rescuing yielded some helminth parasites, later identified as Halocercus lagenorhynchi. DNA barcoding of the host and parasite and the phylogenetic analysis of the parasite was conducted. This study provides valuable information towards establishing basal data of marine mammal parasite diversity and distribution in the Indian waters. We believe this is the first report of the occurrence of Halocercus lagenorhynchi in marine mammals in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathissery John Sarlin
- PG and Research Department of Zoology, Fatima Mata National College (Autonomous), University of Kerala, Kollam, India
| | - Sancia Morris
- Institute of Chemical Technology Mumbai, IOC Bhuvneshwar Odisha, Bhubaneswar, India
| | | | - Lijin Gopi
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA
| | - Megha Muraleedharan
- PG and Research Department of Zoology, Fatima Mata National College (Autonomous), University of Kerala, Kollam, India
| | - Jeniffer Ann Thomas
- PG and Research Department of Zoology, Fatima Mata National College (Autonomous), University of Kerala, Kollam, India
| | - Gayathry Savitha
- PG and Research Department of Zoology, Fatima Mata National College (Autonomous), University of Kerala, Kollam, India
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Martino L, Serrano B, Alomar J, Pérez L, Aragon V, Cobos A, Abarca ML, Yazdi Z, Soto E, Domingo M. Erysipelas with preferential brain and skin involvement in a Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2024; 157:31-43. [PMID: 38299848 DOI: 10.3354/dao03770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Infections by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae occur in domestic animals and cause the disease known as 'erysipelas'. The ubiquity of Erysipelothrix spp. makes infection possible in a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates. Cetaceans are highly susceptible to erysipelas, especially those under human care. The number of cases documented in wild cetaceans is low, the pathogenesis is incompletely understood, and the full spectrum of lesions is not well defined. The possible serotypes and species of the genus that can cause disease are unknown. In October 2022, a common bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus stranded in Vilassar de Mar (Catalonia) showing skin lesions consistent with 'diamond skin disease', a characteristic lesion of erysipelas shared by swine and cetaceans. Necropsy was performed following standardized procedures, and multiple samples were taken for histopathology and bacteriology. Erysipelothrix sp. grew in pure culture in many tissue samples. Genetic characterization by multi-locus sequence analysis identified the species as E. rhusiopathiae. Histologically, the main lesions were an intense suppurative vasculitis of leptomeningeal arteries and veins with abundant intramural Gram-positive bacilli and meningeal hemorrhages. Meningeal lesions were considered the cause of death. The affected skin showed moderate suppurative dermatitis. Herein we document a case of erysipelas in a Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin with unusual lesions in the leptomeningeal vessels and marked skin tropism. To our knowledge, this is the first case of severe brain involvement in erysipelas in a cetacean. We also provide a review of available cases in wild cetaceans, to highlight the characteristics of the disease and improve future diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martino
- Servei de Diagnòstic de Patologia Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Bárbara Serrano
- Servei de Diagnòstic de Patologia Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jaume Alomar
- Servei de Diagnòstic de Patologia Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Lola Pérez
- Facultat de Veterinària de Barcelona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Virginia Aragon
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- IRTA Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Alex Cobos
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- IRTA Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Maria Lourdes Abarca
- Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Veterinary Mycology Group, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Zeinab Yazdi
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Esteban Soto
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Mariano Domingo
- Servei de Diagnòstic de Patologia Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- IRTA Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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Veldhuis Kroeze EJB, van Elk CE, van de Bildt MWG, van Run PRWA, Foster G, Abou-Chakra N, Hare RK, Kuiken T. Infection with Pythium flevoense in a harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) as a novel cause of dermatitis in marine mammals. Vet Res 2023; 54:102. [PMID: 37919808 PMCID: PMC10623814 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-023-01226-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The oomycete Pythium flevoense was diagnosed as the cause of dermatitis in a young adult female harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) that had been trapped in a pound net in a temperate saltwater environment. Disease from Pythium sp. infection-pythiosis-is infrequently diagnosed in humans, horses, dogs, cattle, and few other mammalian species. Pythiosis is typically associated with exposure to tropical or subtropical freshwater conditions, and typically caused by Pythium insidiosum. However, until now, pythiosis has been reported in neither marine mammals nor temperate saltwater conditions, and P. flevoense is not known as a cause of pythiosis in mammals. This porpoise developed generalised dermatitis despite treatment and euthanasia was necessary. Histopathological evaluation revealed a chronic active erosive dermatitis, with intralesional hyphae morphologically consistent with a Pythium sp. PCR analysis and sequencing of affected skin matched Pythium flevoense with a 100% similarity to the reference strain. Additional diagnostics excluded other pathogens. Based on this case report, P. flevoense needs to be considered as a mammalian pathogen. Furthermore, harbour porpoises and possibly other marine mammals may be at risk of infection with P. flevoense, and pythiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of dermatitis in marine mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cornelis E van Elk
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco W G van de Bildt
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter R W A van Run
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nissrine Abou-Chakra
- Unit for Mycology, Department of Bacteria Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Krøger Hare
- Unit for Mycology, Department of Bacteria Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thijs Kuiken
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Fischbach JR, Seguel M. A systematic review of the diversity and virulence correlates of metastrongyle lungworms in marine mammals. Parasitology 2023; 150:1178-1191. [PMID: 37859401 PMCID: PMC10801380 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Metastrongyle lungworms could be particularly detrimental for diving animals such as marine mammals; however, little is known of the drivers of pathogenic host–parasite relationships in this group. This systematic review analysed the diversity of metastrongyles in marine mammals and the host and parasite traits associated with virulence. There have been at least 40 species of metastrongyles described in 66 species of marine mammals. After penalization for study biases, Halocercus hyperoodoni, Otostrongylus circumlitus, Parafilaroides gymnurus, Halocercus brasiliensis and Stenurus minor were the metastrongyles with the widest host range. Most studies (80.12%, n = 133/166) reported that metastrongyles caused bronchopneumonia, while in the cardiovascular system metastrongyles caused vasculitis in nearly half of the studies (45.45%, n = 5/11) that assessed these tissues. Metastrongyles were associated with otitis in 23.08% (n = 6/26) of the studies. Metastrongyle infection was considered a potential contributory to mortality in 44.78% (n = 90/201) of the studies while 10.45% (n = 21/201) of these studies considered metastrongyles the main cause of death. Metastrongyle species with a wider host range were more likely to induce pathogenic effects. Metastrongyles can cause significant tissue damage and mortality in marine mammals although virulent host–parasite relationships are dominated by a few metastrongyle species with wider host ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared R. Fischbach
- College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Mauricio Seguel
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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6
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Elmegaard SL, Teilmann J, Rojano-Doñate L, Brennecke D, Mikkelsen L, Balle JD, Gosewinkel U, Kyhn LA, Tønnesen P, Wahlberg M, Ruser A, Siebert U, Madsen PT. Wild harbour porpoises startle and flee at low received levels from acoustic harassment device. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16691. [PMID: 37794093 PMCID: PMC10550999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43453-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acoustic Harassment Devices (AHD) are widely used to deter marine mammals from aquaculture depredation, and from pile driving operations that may otherwise cause hearing damage. However, little is known about the behavioural and physiological effects of these devices. Here, we investigate the physiological and behavioural responses of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) to a commercial AHD in Danish waters. Six porpoises were tagged with suction-cup-attached DTAGs recording sound, 3D-movement, and GPS (n = 3) or electrocardiogram (n = 2). They were then exposed to AHDs for 15 min, with initial received levels (RL) ranging from 98 to 132 dB re 1 µPa (rms-fast, 125 ms) and initial exposure ranges of 0.9-7 km. All animals reacted by displaying a mixture of acoustic startle responses, fleeing, altered echolocation behaviour, and by demonstrating unusual tachycardia while diving. Moreover, during the 15-min exposures, half of the animals received cumulative sound doses close to published thresholds for temporary auditory threshold shifts. We conclude that AHD exposure at many km can evoke both startle, flight and cardiac responses which may impact blood-gas management, breath-hold capability, energy balance, stress level and risk of by-catch. We posit that current AHDs are too powerful for mitigation use to prevent hearing damage of porpoises from offshore construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siri L Elmegaard
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Laia Rojano-Doñate
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dennis Brennecke
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Lonnie Mikkelsen
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Norwegian Polar Institute, 9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jeppe D Balle
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ulrich Gosewinkel
- Environmental Microbiology, Dept. of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Line A Kyhn
- Marine Mammal Research, Dept. of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Pernille Tønnesen
- Zoophysiology, Dept. of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Magnus Wahlberg
- Marine Biological Research Centre, Dept. of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, 5300, Kerteminde, Denmark
| | - Andreas Ruser
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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Lehnert K, Herzog I, Boyi JO, Gross S, Wohlsein P, Ewers C, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Siebert U. Heartworms in Halichoerus grypus: first records of Acanthocheilonema spirocauda (Onchocercidae; Filarioidea) in 2 grey seals from the North Sea. Parasitology 2023; 150:781-785. [PMID: 37554107 PMCID: PMC10478062 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
The assumed definitive host of the heartworm Acanthocheilonema spirocauda (Onchocerdidae; Filarioidea) is the harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). This filaroid nematode parasitizing in cardiac ventricles and blood vessel lumina of harbour seals (P. vitulina) has a low prevalence and seldom causes severe health impacts. The seal louse (Echinophthirius horridus) is the assumed intermediate host for transmission of A. spirocauda filariae between seals, comprising a unique parasite assembly conveyed from the terrestrial ancestors of pinnipeds. Although grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) are infected by seal lice, heartworm infection was not verified. Analysing a longterm dataset compiled over decades (1996–2021) of health monitoring seals along the German coasts comprising post mortem investigations and archived parasites, 2 cases of A. spirocauda infected male grey seals were detected. Tentative morphological identification was confirmed with molecular tools by sequencing a section of mtDNA COI and comparing nucleotide data with available heartworm sequence. This is the first record of heartworm individuals collected from the heart of grey seals at necropsy. It remains puzzling why heartworm infection occur much less frequently in grey than in harbour seals, although both species use the same habitat, share mixed haul-outs and consume similar prey species. If transmission occurs directly via seal louse vectors on haul-outs, increasing seal populations in the North- and Baltic Sea could have density dependent effects on prevalence of heartworm and seal louse infections. It remains to be shown how species-specificity of filarial nematodes as well as immune system traits of grey seals influence infection patterns of A. spirocauda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover
| | - Insa Herzog
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover
| | - Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover
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Delsmann J, Schmidt B, Oheim R, Amling M, Rolvien T, Siebert U. Bone mineral density and microarchitecture change during skeletal growth in harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from the German coast. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7196. [PMID: 37137898 PMCID: PMC10156659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33911-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Across species, the skeletal system shares mutual functions, including the protection of inner organs, structural basis for locomotion, and acting as an endocrine organ, thus being of pivotal importance for survival. However, insights into skeletal characteristics of marine mammals are limited, especially in the growing skeleton. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are common marine mammals in the North and Baltic Seas and are suitable indicators of the condition of their ecosystem. Here, we analyzed whole-body areal bone mineral density (aBMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and lumbar vertebrae by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in neonate, juvenile, and adult harbor seals. Along skeletal growth, an increase in two-dimensional aBMD by DXA was paralleled by three-dimensional volumetric BMD by HR-pQCT, which could be attributed to an increasing trabecular thickness while trabecular number remained constant. Strong associations were observed between body dimensions (weight and length) and aBMD and trabecular microarchitecture (R2 = 0.71-0.92, all p < 0.001). To validate the results of the DXA measurement (i.e., the standard method used worldwide to diagnose osteoporosis in humans), we performed linear regression analyses with the three-dimensional measurements from the HR-pQCT method, which revealed strong associations between the two imaging techniques (e.g., aBMD and Tb.Th: R2 = 0.96, p < 0.0001). Taken together, our findings highlight the importance of systematic skeletal investigations in marine mammals during growth, illustrating the high accuracy of DXA in this context. Regardless of the limited sample size, the observed trabecular thickening is likely to represent a distinct pattern of vertebral bone maturation. As differences in nutritional status, among other factors, are likely to affect skeletal health, it appears essential to routinely perform skeletal assessments in marine mammals. Placing the results in the context of environmental exposures may allow effective measures to protect their populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Delsmann
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Orthopedics, Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Britta Schmidt
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25746, Büsum, Germany
| | - Ralf Oheim
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Amling
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Rolvien
- Division of Orthopedics, Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25746, Büsum, Germany.
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Lehnert K, Boyi JO, Siebert U. Potential new species of pseudaliid lung nematode (Metastrongyloidea) from two stranded neonatal orcas ( Orcinus orca) characterized by ITS-2 and COI sequences. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10036. [PMID: 37139403 PMCID: PMC10150029 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about parasite species of orcas, their prevalence, and impact on the health status is scarce. Only two records of lungworm infections in orca exist from male neonatal orcas stranded in Germany and Norway. The nematodes were identified as Halocercus sp. (Pseudaliidae), which have been described in the respiratory tract of multiple odontocete species, but morphological identification to species level remained impossible due to the fragile structure and ambiguous morphological features. Pseudaliid nematodes (Metastrongyloidea) are specific to the respiratory tract of toothed whales and are hypothesized to have become almost extinct in terrestrial mammals. Severe lungworm infections can cause secondary bacterial infections and bronchopneumonia and are a common cause of mortality in odontocetes. DNA isolations and subsequent sequencing of the rDNA ITS-2 and mtDNA COI revealed nucleotide differences between previously described Halocercus species from common dolphin (H. delphini) and harbor porpoises (H. invaginatus) that were comparatively analyzed, pointing toward a potentially new species of pseudaliid lungworm in orcas. New COI sequences of six additional metastrongyloid lungworms of seals and porpoises were derived to elucidate phylogenetic relationships and differences between nine species of Metastrongyloidea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife ResearchUniversity of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, FoundationHannoverGermany
| | - Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife ResearchUniversity of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, FoundationHannoverGermany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife ResearchUniversity of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, FoundationHannoverGermany
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10
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Rohner S, Gramer M, Wiesweg I, Scherf-Clavel O, Wohlsein P, Schmelz M, Siebert U, Richter F, Gernert M. Present in the Aquatic Environment, Unclear Evidence in Top Predators-The Unknown Effects of Anti-Seizure Medication on Eurasian Otters ( Lutra lutra) from Northern Germany. TOXICS 2023; 11:338. [PMID: 37112566 PMCID: PMC10142713 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11040338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Emerging contaminants are produced globally at high rates and often ultimately find their way into the aquatic environment. These include substances contained in anti-seizure medication (ASM), which are currently appearing in surface waters at increasing concentrations in Germany. Unintentional and sublethal, chronic exposure to pharmaceuticals such as ASMs has unknown consequences for aquatic wildlife. Adverse effects of ASMs on the brain development are documented in mammals. Top predators such as Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) are susceptible to the bioaccumulation of environmental pollutants. Still little is known about the health status of the otter population in Germany, while the detection of various pollutants in otter tissue samples has highlighted their role as an indicator species. To investigate potential contamination with pharmaceuticals, Eurasian otter brain samples were screened for selected ASMs via high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Via histology, brain sections were analyzed for the presence of potential associated neuropathological changes. In addition to 20 wild otters that were found dead, a control group of 5 deceased otters in human care was studied. Even though none of the targeted ASMs were detected in the otters, unidentified substances in many otter brains were measured. No obvious pathology was observed histologically, although the sample quality limited the investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Rohner
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Martina Gramer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ivo Wiesweg
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Aktion Fischotterschutz e.V, Otter-Zentrum Hankensbüttel, 29386 Hankensbüttel, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Manuela Gernert
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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11
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Screening for Influenza and Morbillivirus in Seals and Porpoises in the Baltic and North Sea. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030357. [PMID: 36986279 PMCID: PMC10054458 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Historically, the seals and harbour porpoises of the Baltic Sea and North Sea have been subjected to hunting, chemical pollutants and repeated mass mortalities, leading to significant population fluctuations. Despite the conservation implications and the zoonotic potential associated with viral disease outbreaks in wildlife, limited information is available on the circulation of viral pathogens in Baltic Sea seals and harbour porpoises. Here, we investigated the presence of the influenza A virus (IAV), the phocine distemper virus (PDV) and the cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV) in tracheal swabs and lung tissue samples from 99 harbour seals, 126 grey seals, 73 ringed seals and 78 harbour porpoises collected in the Baltic Sea and North Sea between 2002–2019. Despite screening 376 marine mammals collected over nearly two decades, we only detected one case of PDV and two cases of IAV linked to the documented viral outbreaks in seals in 2002 and 2014, respectively. Although we find no evidence of PDV and IAV during intermediate years, reports of isolated cases of PDV in North Sea harbour seals and IAV (H5N8) in Baltic and North Sea grey seals suggest introductions of those pathogens within the sampling period. Thus, to aid future monitoring efforts we highlight the need for a standardized and continuous sample collection of swabs, tissue and blood samples across Baltic Sea countries.
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12
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Status of Infectious Diseases in Free-Ranging European Brown Hares ( Lepus europaeus) Found Dead between 2017 and 2020 in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020239. [PMID: 36839511 PMCID: PMC9959346 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The European brown hare (Lepus europaeus) is a quite adaptable species, but populations have been decreasing for several decades in different countries, including Germany. To investigate infectious diseases as possible influences on observed population decline in the German federal state Schleswig-Holstein, 118 deceased free-ranging European brown hares were collected between 2017 and 2020 and underwent detailed postmortem examination with extended sampling. Infectious diseases were a major cause of death (34.7%). The number of juveniles found exceeded the adult ones. The main pathomorphological findings were hepatitis (32.8%), pneumonia (22.2%), nephritis (19.1%), liver necrosis (12.9%), and enteritis (40.7%). An unusual main finding was steatitis (20.9%) of unknown origin. Animals were mainly emaciated and showed high infection rates with Eimeria spp. (91.3%) and Trichostrongylus spp. (36.2%). European Brown Hare Syndrome Virus reached an epidemic status with few fatal infections (4.2%) and high seroprevalence (64.9%), whereas the prevalence of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 was very low (0.8%) in hares in Schleswig-Holstein. Pathogens such as Yersinia pseudotuberculosis (5.9%), Pasteurella multocida (0.8%), and Staphylococcus aureus (3.4%) only caused sporadic deaths. This study illustrates the wide distribution of various infectious pathogens with high mortality and even zoonotic potential. Infectious diseases need to be considered as an important influence on population dynamics in Schleswig-Holstein.
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13
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Stepien EN, Olsen MT, Nabe–Nielsen J, Hansen KA, Kristensen JH, Blanchet M, Brando S, Desportes G, Lockyer C, Marcenaro L, Bunskoek P, Kemper J, Siebert U, Wahlberg M. Determination of growth, mass, and body mass index of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena): Implications for conservational status assessment of populations. Glob Ecol Conserv 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2023.e02384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
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14
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Sacristán C, Ewbank AC, Sánchez-Sarmiento AM, Duarte-Benvenuto A, Borges JCG, Rebelo VA, Díaz-Delgado J, Borges Keid L, Catão-Dias JL. Erysipelas in a stranded common bottlenose dolphin: first report in a South American odontocete. Braz J Microbiol 2022; 53:2199-2203. [PMID: 35962226 PMCID: PMC9679089 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00810-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Erysipelas is a zoonotic disease caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. In cetaceans, this disease has two main clinical forms: a cutaneous one, grossly characterized by rhomboid lesions, and a septicemic and often fatal form. Erysipelas is considered an important cause of morbidity and mortality in captive cetaceans; however, information in free-ranging cetaceans is limited. An adult common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) was found dead and in advanced autolysis in Paraíba state, northeastern Brazil, on July 19th, 2020. Upon gross examination, 80% of the body surface presented disseminated rhomboid cutaneous lesions ranging from 4 to 6 cm-width, characterized by well-defined edges and occasional ulceration, consistent with erysipelas. Additionally, anthropic-made postmortem linear cuts and partial mechanical removal of the flank musculature were noted. Skin samples were collected for histopathologic and molecular analyses. Microscopically, it was possible to observe multifocal dermatitis with vasculitis. Erysipelothrix sp. was detected by PCR. Despite previous reports of human consumption of cetacean meat in northeastern Brazil, the observed marks and advanced carcass autolysis suggested that the animal was most likely used as bait for fishing instead of human intake. This case highlights the value of postmortem examination and PCR even in poorly preserved cadavers and contributes to the understanding of the epidemiology of cutaneous erysipelas in free-ranging cetaceans (first report in an odontocete from the Southern Hemisphere). Due to the zoonotic potential of certain Erysipelothrix species (i.e., E. rhusiopathiae), active public health policies are required to inform field professionals and the general public about the health threats associated with marine mammal manipulation and consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Sacristán
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA), CSIC, 28130, Valdeolmos, Spain.
| | - Ana Carolina Ewbank
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angélica María Sánchez-Sarmiento
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, 13635-900, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aricia Duarte-Benvenuto
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Carlos Gomes Borges
- Fundação Mamíferos Aquáticos, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, 49.100-000, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Ecology and Environmental Monitoring, Federal University of Paraíba, Rio Tinto, Paraíba, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Araújo Rebelo
- Fundação Mamíferos Aquáticos, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, 49.100-000, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Ecology and Environmental Monitoring, Federal University of Paraíba, Rio Tinto, Paraíba, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Josué Díaz-Delgado
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Lara Borges Keid
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, 13635-900, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, 05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Siebert U, Grilo ML, Kesselring T, Lehnert K, Ronnenberg K, Pawliczka I, Galatius A, Kyhn LA, Dähne M, Gilles A. Variation of blubber thickness for three marine mammal species in the southern Baltic Sea. Front Physiol 2022; 13:880465. [PMID: 36505079 PMCID: PMC9726720 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.880465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Evaluating populational trends of health condition has become an important topic for marine mammal populations under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). In the Baltic Sea, under the recommendation of Helsinki Commission (HELCOM), efforts have been undertaken to use blubber thickness as an indicator of energy reserves in marine mammals. Current values lack geographical representation from the entire Baltic Sea area and a large dataset is only available for grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) from Sweden and Finland. Knowledge on variation of blubber thickness related to geography throughout the Baltic Sea is important for its usage as an indicator. Such evaluation can provide important information about the energy reserves, and hence, food availability. It is expected that methodological standardization under HELCOM should include relevant datasets with good geographical coverage that can also account for natural variability in the resident marine mammal populations. In this study, seasonal and temporal trends of blubber thickness were evaluated for three marine mammal species-harbor seal (Phoca vitulina), grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)-resident in the southern Baltic Sea collected and investigated under stranding networks. Additionally, the effects of age, season and sex were analyzed. Seasonal variation of blubber thickness was evident for all species, with harbor seals presenting more pronounced effects in adults and grey seals and harbor porpoises presenting more pronounced effects in juveniles. For harbor seals and porpoises, fluctuations were present over the years included in the analysis. In the seal species, blubber thickness values were generally higher in males. In harbor seals and porpoises, blubber thickness values differed between the age classes: while adult harbor seals displayed thicker blubber layers than juveniles, the opposite was observed for harbor porpoises. Furthermore, while an important initial screening tool, blubber thickness assessment cannot be considered a valid methodology for overall health assessment in marine mammals and should be complemented with data on specific health parameters developed for each species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Büsum, Germany,*Correspondence: Ursula Siebert,
| | - Miguel L. Grilo
- MARE—Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA—Instituto Universitário de Ciências Psicológicas, Sociais e da Vida, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tina Kesselring
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Katrin Ronnenberg
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- Department of Oceanography and Geography, Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, University of Gdansk, Hel, Poland
| | - Anders Galatius
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Line A. Kyhn
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | - Anita Gilles
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Büsum, Germany
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16
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Gross S, Müller A, Seinige D, Wohlsein P, Oliveira M, Steinhagen D, Kehrenberg C, Siebert U. Occurrence of Antimicrobial-Resistant Escherichia coli in Marine Mammals of the North and Baltic Seas: Sentinels for Human Health. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091248. [PMID: 36140027 PMCID: PMC9495373 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a global health threat that involves complex, opaque transmission processes in the environment. In particular, wildlife appears to function as a reservoir and vector for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria as well as resistance genes. In the present study, the occurrence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli was determined in marine mammals and various fish species of the North and Baltic Seas. Rectal or faecal swabs were collected from 66 live-caught or stranded marine mammals and 40 fish specimens. The antimicrobial resistance phenotypes and genotypes of isolated E. coli were determined using disk diffusion tests and PCR assays. Furthermore, isolates were assigned to the four major phylogenetic groups of E. coli. Additionally, post mortem examinations were performed on 41 of the sampled marine mammals. The investigations revealed resistant E. coli in 39.4% of the marine mammal samples, while no resistant isolates were obtained from any of the fish samples. The obtained isolates most frequently exhibited resistance against aminoglycosides, followed by β-lactams. Of the isolates, 37.2% showed multidrug resistance. Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) mainly carried E. coli isolates belonging to the phylogenetic group B1, while seal isolates were most frequently assigned to group B2. Regarding antimicrobial resistance, no significant differences were seen between the two sampling areas or different health parameters, but multidrug-resistant isolates were more frequent in harbour porpoises than in the sampled seals. The presented results provide information on the distribution of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in the North and Baltic Seas, and highlight the role of these resident marine mammal species as sentinels from a One Health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Anja Müller
- Institute for Veterinary Food Science, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 92, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Diana Seinige
- Office for Veterinary Affairs and Consumer Protection, Ministry of Lower Saxony for Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection, Alte Grenze 7, 29221 Celle, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dieter Steinhagen
- Fish Disease Research Unit, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Corinna Kehrenberg
- Institute for Veterinary Food Science, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 92, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
- Correspondence:
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17
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Kot BC, Ho HH, Leung EK, Chung TY, Tsui HC. Characterisation of Crassicauda fuelleborni nematode infection in Indo-Pacific finless porpoises (Neophocaena phocaenoides) using postmortem computed tomography. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 18:68-75. [PMID: 35519505 PMCID: PMC9061254 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes of the genus Crassicauda are parasites that infect various body tissues of cetaceans, including the mammary glands which can influence the reproductive output and hence threaten the survival of endangered cetacean populations. In this study, postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) was used to characterise lesions related to Crassicauda fuelleborni infections in stranded Indo-Pacific finless porpoises (Neophocaena phocaenoides) from Hong Kong waters. Using PMCT and subsequently verified by conventional necropsy, Crassicauda-related lesions were found in 52% of finless porpoises examined (n = 13/25), including both males and females. These parasitic lesions were mostly located in the ventral abdominal muscles in both sexes and situated in proximity to the mammary glands in females. C. fuelleborni infections were also found in the male reproductive organs, which to our knowledge have not been reported in this cetacean species previously. PMCT characteristics of the lesions were also correlated with the gross appearance observed at necropsy and the chronicity of the parasitic infections. In conclusion, this study established the use of virtopsy, particularly PMCT, to characterise C. fuelleborni infections in stranded finless porpoises for the first time, which is non-invasive and can be used prior to conventional necropsy to aid disease diagnosis and targeted sampling. This technique can be extended to other species of cetaceans and parasites, as well as being used in the retrospective analysis of past PMCT scans to deepen our understanding of the prevalence, health impacts, and ecological implications of parasitic infection in cetaceans. Computed tomography descriptions of cetacean mammary glands and adjacent musculature. Detection and characterisation of Crassicauda-related lesions using virtopsy. Crassicauda-related lesions found in 52% of finless porpoises examined in Hong Kong. Virtopsy features correlated with necropsy findings and chronicity of infection. Virtopsy can be used to study the prevalence and impact of parasitic infection in cetaceans.
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18
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Boyi JO, Heße E, Rohner S, Säurich J, Siebert U, Gilles A, Lehnert K. Deciphering Eurasian otter (
Lutra lutra
L.) and seal (
Phoca vitulina
L.;
Halichoerus grypus
F.) diet: metabarcoding tailored for fresh and saltwater fish species. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:5089-5106. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.16635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
| | - Eileen Heße
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
| | - Simon Rohner
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
| | - Josefin Säurich
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Hannover Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
| | - Anita Gilles
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Büsum Germany
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19
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Li C, Xie H, Sun Y, Zeng Y, Tian Z, Chen X, Sanganyado E, Lin J, Yang L, Li P, Liang B, Liu W. Insights on Gut and Skin Wound Microbiome in Stranded Indo-Pacific Finless Porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides). Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071295. [PMID: 35889014 PMCID: PMC9318903 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is a unique marker for cetaceans’ health status, and the microbiome composition of their skin wounds can indicate a potential infection from their habitat. Our study provides the first comparative analysis of the microbial communities from gut regions and skin wounds of an individual Indo-Pacific finless porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides). Microbial richness increased from the foregut to the hindgut with variation in the composition of microbes. Fusobacteria (67.51% ± 5.10%), Firmicutes (22.00% ± 2.60%), and Proteobacteria (10.47% ± 5.49%) were the dominant phyla in the gastrointestinal tract, while Proteobacteria (76.11% ± 0.54%), Firmicutes (22.00% ± 2.60%), and Bacteroidetes (10.13% ± 0.49%) were the dominant phyla in the skin wounds. The genera Photobacterium, Actinobacillus, Vibrio, Erysipelothrix, Tenacibaculum, and Psychrobacter, considered potential pathogens for mammals, were identified in the gut and skin wounds of the stranded Indo-Pacific finless porpoise. A comparison of the gut microbiome in the Indo-Pacific finless porpoise and other cetaceans revealed a possible species-specific gut microbiome in the Indo-Pacific finless porpoise. There was a significant difference between the skin wound microbiomes in terrestrial and marine mammals, probably due to habitat-specific differences. Our results show potential species specificity in the microbiome structure and a potential threat posed by environmental pathogens to cetaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Huiying Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Yajing Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Ziyao Tian
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Xiaohan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Edmond Sanganyado
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK;
| | - Jianqing Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Liangliang Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Ping Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
| | - Bo Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (W.L.)
| | - Wenhua Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; (C.L.); (H.X.); (Y.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.T.); (X.C.); (J.L.); (L.Y.); (P.L.)
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
- Correspondence: (B.L.); (W.L.)
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Gregor KM, Lakemeyer J, IJsseldijk LL, Siebert U, Wohlsein P. Spontaneous neoplasms in harbour porpoises Phocoena phocoena. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2022; 149:145-154. [PMID: 35735234 DOI: 10.3354/dao03670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Harbour porpoises are widely distributed in the North Atlantic and represent the most abundant cetacean species in the North and Baltic Seas. Spontaneous neoplasms are relatively rarely reported in cetaceans, and only little is known about neoplasia in harbour porpoises. Thus, archival material was reviewed for spontaneous neoplasms in harbour porpoises recorded during post-mortem examinations between 1999 and 2018. Neoplasms were identified in 7 adult porpoises: 6 animals originating from the North and Baltic Seas and investigated as part of German and Dutch systematic health monitoring programs, and 1 porpoise from Greenlandic waters. The tumours were of different histogenetic origins and further characterised by histology and immunohistochemistry. One individual had a neoplasia in the digestive tract (adenocarcinoma, n = 1); 4 animals, in the genital tract (Sertoli cell tumour, n = 1; genital leiomyoma/fibroleiomyoma, n = 3); and 2 porpoises, in endocrine organs (adrenal adenoma, n = 2). This is the first report of an adenocarcinoma in the liver, a testicular Sertoli cell tumour and adrenocortical adenomas in harbour porpoises. The cause of the tumorigenesis in examined cases remains undetermined. The involvement of endogenous factors, including mutation of cell cycle regulating genes, such as the tumour-suppressor gene p53, cannot be ruled out. The aetiopathogenetic significance of exogenous factors, such as infectious agents like liver flukes or anthropogenic factors, including persistent organic pollutants, should be the subject of future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Gregor
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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21
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Kuijpers NW, van Schalkwijk L, IJsseldijk LL, Willems DS, Veraa S. Post-Mortem Computed Tomography Pulmonary Findings in Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111454. [PMID: 35681918 PMCID: PMC9179349 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The use of cross-sectional imaging techniques to examine the cause of death and health status of deceased animals is increasing in both veterinary and wildlife conservation programs, including species of whales and dolphins. Lung disease is common in harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), a small whale species that regularly washes up on the coast in North Sea-bordering countries. This study aimed to describe lung changes visible in computed tomographic (CT) images of recently deceased harbor porpoises before pathological dissection was performed, including comparison of these two examination methods. Despite frequently visible signs of body decomposition, several lung abnormalities (collapsed lung, fluid in the airways, lung mineralization) were more often seen on the CT images. In general, lung changes could be described in more detail compared to gross dissection. CT images of lungs of recently deceased harbor porpoises can therefore be used to guide gross dissection, leading to more specific findings and potentially a more complete understanding of the circumstances leading to the death of the porpoise, assessment of the population, and ultimately, ecosystem health. Abstract The application of whole-body post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) in veterinary and wildlife post-mortem research programs is advancing. A high incidence of pulmonary pathology is reported in the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). In this study, the value of PMCT focused on pulmonary assessment is evaluated. The objectives of this study were to describe pulmonary changes as well as autolytic features detected by PMCT examination and to compare those findings with conventional necropsy. Retrospective evaluation of whole-body PMCT images of 46 relatively fresh harbor porpoises and corresponding conventional necropsy reports was carried out, with a special focus on the respiratory tract. Common pulmonary PMCT findings included: moderate (24/46) to severe (19/46) increased pulmonary soft tissue attenuation, severe parasite burden (17/46), bronchial wall thickening (30/46), and mild autolysis (26/46). Compared to conventional necropsy, PMCT more frequently identified pneumothorax (5/46 vs. none), tracheal content (26/46 vs. 7/46), and macroscopic pulmonary mineralization (23/46 vs. 11/46), and provided more information of the distribution of pulmonary changes. These results indicate that PMCT adds information on pulmonary assessment and is a promising complementary technique for necropsy, despite the frequent presence of mild autolytic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke W. Kuijpers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Integrating Disciplines, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (D.S.W.); (S.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Linde van Schalkwijk
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (L.v.S.); (L.L.I.)
| | - Lonneke L. IJsseldijk
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (L.v.S.); (L.L.I.)
| | - Dorien S. Willems
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Integrating Disciplines, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (D.S.W.); (S.V.)
| | - Stefanie Veraa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Integrating Disciplines, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (D.S.W.); (S.V.)
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Philipp C, Unger B, Siebert U. Occurrence of Microplastics in Harbour Seals ( Phoca vitulina) and Grey Seals ( Halichoerus grypus) from German Waters. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050551. [PMID: 35268122 PMCID: PMC8908825 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The level of knowledge on microplastic exposure in marine mammals is limited by the access to dead and alive individuals. Focusing on the Northeast Atlantic area, some studies already confirmed the microplastic presence in free-ranging marine mammals, such as harbour porpoises or harbour seals inhabiting the North Sea (NS). In contrast, knowledge on the exposure to grey seals and particularly on specimen inhabiting the Baltic Sea (BS) are scarce. This study examined 63 gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) of harbour seals and grey seals originating from German waters (NS and BS) found between 2014 and 2019. Besides the documentation of microplastic findings, this study is dealing with life history and health parameters, attempting to identify correlations with microplastic presence. This study confirmed beside the presence, the egestion of microplastics (>100 µm; MPs) in the examined seals, without correlations in parasite infestations or inflammation responses. 540 suspected MPs were identified in 62 intestinal samples (42% fibres, 58% fragments), and 228 MPs in seven stomachs (28% fibres, 72% fragments). In accordance, first evidence of the retainment of fragments in the GIT were given. However, no significant difference in MP occurrence was indicated for different sex or age groups.
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Causes of Death and Pathological Findings in Stranded Harbour Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) from Swedish Waters. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030369. [PMID: 35158692 PMCID: PMC8833703 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Disease factors and mortality etiologies of free ranging wild cetaceans such as the harbour porpoise (Phoceona phocoena) are difficult to study. However, stranded animals and carcasses can provide invaluable information on the health and biology of this species. Post-mortem examinations performed on 128 stranded harbour porpoises collected over 15 years from Swedish waters examined general health, disease findings and cause of death. The main cause of death was bycatch in fishing gear (31%, confirmed or suspected). Disease, most often pneumonia, was also a frequent cause of death (21%). Porpoise population health may mirror the overall health and stability of marine ecosystems and the effects of human activities on coastal environments. Monitoring health, diseases and causes of death of porpoises allows for identification of threats to these animals, to other animals, to humans and to the environment. Abstract Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are useful indicators of the health of their wild populations and marine ecosystems, yet their elusive nature makes studying them in their natural environment challenging. Stranded porpoises provide an excellent source of data to study the health and biology of these animals and identify causes of death, diseases and other threats. The aim of this study was to document pathology, and where possible, cause of death in porpoises from Swedish waters. Post-mortem examinations were performed on 128 stranded porpoises collected from 2006 to 2020. Overall, bycatch including definitive and probable cases was the most common cause of death (31.4%), followed by disease (21.3%), predominantly pneumonia. In adults, infectious disease was the most common cause of death. Bacteria with zoonotic potential such as Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae and Brucella sp. were documented for the first time in porpoises from Swedish waters, as was the porpoise-adapted group B Salmonella enterica ST416/ST417. Three of four deaths from non-infectious diseases involved parturition complications. Four cases of suspected predation were documented, but further analyses are required to confirm these findings. Our results are consistent with those from other regions in Europe and serve as a reference for future monitoring for changing patterns of health and disease of porpoises and their environments.
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Siebert U, Stürznickel J, Schaffeld T, Oheim R, Rolvien T, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Wohlsein P, Lakemeyer J, Rohner S, Aroha Schick L, Gross S, Nachtsheim D, Ewers C, Becher P, Amling M, Morell M. Blast injury on harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) from the Baltic Sea after explosions of deposits of World War II ammunition. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 159:107014. [PMID: 34883460 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.107014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Harbour porpoises are under pressure from increasing human activities. This includes the detonation of ammunition that was dumped in large amounts into the sea during and after World War II. In this context, forty-two British ground mines from World War II were cleared by means of blasting in the period from 28 to 31 August 2019 by a NATO unit in the German Exclusive Economic Zone within the marine protected area of Fehmarn Belt in the Baltic Sea, Germany. Between September and November 2019, 24 harbour porpoises were found dead in the period after those clearing events along the coastline of the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein and were investigated for direct and indirect effects of blast injury. Health evaluations were conducted including examinations of the brain, the air-filled (lungs and gastrointestinal tract) and acoustic organs (melon, acoustic fat in the lower jaw, ears and their surrounding tissues). The bone structure of the tympano-periotic complexes was examined using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT). In 8/24 harbour porpoises, microfractures of the malleus, dislocation of middle ear bones, bleeding, and haemorrhages in the melon, lower jaw and peribullar acoustic fat were detected, suggesting blast injury. In addition, one bycaught animal and another porpoise with signs of blunt force trauma also showed evidence of blast injury. The cause of death of the other 14 animals varied and remained unclear in two individuals. Due to the vulnerability and the conservation status of harbour porpoise populations in the Baltic Sea, noise mitigation measures must be improved to prevent any risk of injury. The data presented here highlight the importance of systematic investigations into the acute and chronic effects of blast and acoustic trauma in harbour porpoises, improving the understanding of underwater noise effects and herewith develop effective measures to protect the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Julian Stürznickel
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529 Hamburg, Germany; Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Schaffeld
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Ralf Oheim
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Rolvien
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529 Hamburg, Germany; Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Institute for Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 85-87, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Simon Rohner
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Luca Aroha Schick
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Dominik Nachtsheim
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute for Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 85-87, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Paul Becher
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Amling
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lottestr. 59, 22529 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Morell
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
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Sun (孙迪) D, Chai (柴思敏) S, Huang (黄鑫) X, Wang (王滢莹) Y, Xiao (肖琳琳) L, Xu (徐士霞) S, Yang (杨光) G. Novel Genomic Insights into Body Size Evolution in Cetaceans and a Resolution of Peto’s Paradox. Am Nat 2022; 199:E28-E42. [DOI: 10.1086/717768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Di Sun (孙迪)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Simin Chai (柴思敏)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, Guangdong 511458, China
| | - Xin Huang (黄鑫)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yingying Wang (王滢莹)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Linlin Xiao (肖琳琳)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shixia Xu (徐士霞)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Guang Yang (杨光)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, Guangdong 511458, China
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26
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Ometere Boyi J, Stokholm I, Hillmann M, Søndergaard J, Persson S, de Wit CA, Siebert U, Kristina L. Relationships between gene transcription and contaminant concentrations in Baltic ringed seals: A comparison between tissue matrices. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 242:106035. [PMID: 34856463 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.106035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ringed seals (Pusa hispida) are slowly recovering in the eastern and northern parts of the Baltic Sea after years of hunting pressure and contaminant exposure. Still, consequences of anthropogenic activities such as contaminant exposure and increasing temperatures are stressors that continue to have deleterious effects on their habitat and health. Transcription profiles of seven health-related genes involved in xenobiotic metabolism, endocrine disruption and stress were evaluated in blood, blubber, and liver of Baltic ringed seals in a multi-tissue approach. Selected persistent organic pollutants and total mercury concentrations were measured in blubber and liver, and muscle and liver of these animals, respectively. Concentrations of contaminants varied across tissues on a lipid weight basis but not with sex. mRNA transcript levels for all seven target genes did not vary between sexes or age classes. Transcript levels of thyroid hormone receptor alpha (TRα), retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) correlated with levels of persistent organic pollutants. TRα transcript levels also correlated positively with mercury concentrations in the liver. Of the three tissues assessed in this multi-tissue approach, blubber showed highest transcription levels of aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT), thyroid stimulating hormone receptor beta (TSHβ), oestrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARα). The wide range of genes expressed highlights the value of minimally invasive sampling (e.g. biopsies) for assessing health endpoints in free-ranging marine wildlife and the importance of identifying optimal matrices for targeted gene expression studies. This gene transcript profile study has provided baseline information on transcript levels of biomarkers for early on-set health effects in ringed seals and will be a useful guide to assess the impacts of environmental change in Baltic pinnipeds for conservation and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, Buesum D-25761, Germany
| | - Iben Stokholm
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, Buesum D-25761, Germany
| | - Miriam Hillmann
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, Buesum D-25761, Germany
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde DK-4000, Denmark
| | - Sara Persson
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Stockholm SE-10405, Sweden
| | - Cynthia A de Wit
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-10691, Sweden
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, Buesum D-25761, Germany
| | - Lehnert Kristina
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, Buesum D-25761, Germany.
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27
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Rohner S, Wohlsein P, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Ewers C, Waindok P, Strube C, Baechlein C, Becher P, Wilmes D, Rickerts V, Siebert U. Pathological Findings in Eurasian Otters ( Lutra lutra) Found Dead between 2015-2020 in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:59. [PMID: 35011165 PMCID: PMC8749874 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In times of massive biodiversity loss and ongoing environmental crises, it is extremely important to ensure long-term conservation efforts of threatened species like Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra). To gain insights into the status of Northern Germany's otter population, 92 otters found dead in Schleswig-Holstein between 2015-2020 were collected and underwent detailed dissection with the aim to establish a monitoring program for this population. Examinations followed a protocol especially designed for otters, including various biological data assessments and extended sampling. The finding sites showed a clear concentration in the Continental region. Seasonal concentration differed among the years, yet peaks were seen from fall to winter. Overall, more males than females were found, although this differed among the years. The majority of otters that could be aged were between 1-3 years. Placental scars and pregnancy were recorded in only few females. Nutritional status was good in most cases. Infectious diseases found included Vagococcus lutrae, Toxoplasma gondii, and Emmonsia spp. A major cause of death was roadkill. Known sample bias in studies focusing on roadkill was considered in the finding interpretation. Continuation of the population health investigations is mandatory to analyze potential trends and to establish an actual monitoring program for Eurasian otters in Schleswig-Holstein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Rohner
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany; (E.P.-B.); (C.E.)
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany; (E.P.-B.); (C.E.)
| | - Patrick Waindok
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.W.); (C.S.)
| | - Christina Strube
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (P.W.); (C.S.)
| | - Christine Baechlein
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (C.B.); (P.B.)
- Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES), Food and Veterinary Institute Braunschweig/Hannover, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Paul Becher
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (C.B.); (P.B.)
| | - Dunja Wilmes
- Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (D.W.); (V.R.)
| | - Volker Rickerts
- Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (D.W.); (V.R.)
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
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28
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Pathological findings in bycaught harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) from the coast of Northern Norway. Polar Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-021-02970-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractDue to little prior knowledge, the present study aims to investigate the health status of bycaught harbour porpoises from the northernmost Arctic Norwegian coastline. Gross, histopathological and parasitological investigations were conducted on 61 harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena phocoena) accidentally captured in fishing gear from February to April 2017 along the coast of Northern Norway. Most animals displayed a good nutritional status, none were emaciated. Pulmonary nematodiasis (Pseudalius inflexus, Halocercus invaginatus and Torynurus convolutus) was found in 77% and associated with severe bronchopneumonia in 33% of the animals. The majority (92%) had parasites in the stomach and intestine (Anisakis simplex sensu stricto (s. s.), Pholeter gastrophilus, Diphyllobothrium stemmacephalum, Hysterothylacium aduncum and Pseudoterranova decipiens s. s.). The prevalence of gastric nematodiasis was 69%. In the 1st stomach compartment A. simplex s. s. was found in 30% of the animals, causing severe chronic ulcerative gastritis in 23%. Campula oblonga infected the liver and pancreas of 90% and 10% of the animals, respectively, causing severe cholangitis/pericholangitis/hepatitis in 67% and moderate pancreatitis in 10% of the animals. Mesenteric and pulmonary lymphadenitis was detected in 82% and 7% of the animals, respectively. In conclusion, the major pathological findings in the investigated Arctic porpoises were parasitoses in multiple organs with associated severe lesions, particularly in the lung, liver and stomach. The animals were generally well nourished and most showed freshly ingested prey in their stomachs. The present study indicates that the harbour porpoises were able to tolerate the detected parasitic burden and associated lesions without significant health problems.
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Brennecke D, Wahlberg M, Gilles A, Siebert U. Age and lunar cycle predict harbor porpoise bycatch in the south-western Baltic Sea. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12284. [PMID: 34760359 PMCID: PMC8556710 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The harbor porpoise, Phocoena phocoena, is the only cetacean regularly occurring in the Baltic Sea. During the last decades, several anthropogenic activities have affected porpoises in the Baltic region. Most notably is bycatch in static fishing gear, such as gill nets, which is the main human-induced cause of death in odontocetes. There is still considerable uncertainty about which factors influence the amount of bycatch. In the present study, we reviewed bycatch data collected from 1987 to 2016 from the south-western Baltic Sea. There was a significant difference in bycatch due to seasonality and region, and there was a higher bycatch rate in juveniles than in adults. The only abiotic factor associated with bycatch was the lunar cycle, with more animals bycaught during a full moon. These results improve our understanding of which biotic and abiotic factors are associated with bycatch of Baltic harbor porpoises, which can be used to strengthen conservation endeavors such as managing fishing efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Brennecke
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.,University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biology, Marine Biological Research Centre, Kerteminde, Denmark.,Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Magnus Wahlberg
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biology, Marine Biological Research Centre, Kerteminde, Denmark
| | - Anita Gilles
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
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30
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Morell M, IJsseldijk LL, Berends AJ, Gröne A, Siebert U, Raverty SA, Shadwick RE, Kik MJL. Evidence of Hearing Loss and Unrelated Toxoplasmosis in a Free-Ranging Harbour Porpoise ( Phocoena phocoena). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113058. [PMID: 34827790 PMCID: PMC8614470 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Evidence of hearing impairment was identified in a female harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) on the basis of inner ear analysis. The animal live stranded on the Dutch coast at Domburg in 2016 and died a few hours later. Ultrastructural examination of the inner ear revealed evidence of sensory cell loss, which is compatible with noise exposure. In addition, histopathology also revealed multifocal necrotising protozoal encephalitis. A diagnosis of toxoplasmosis was confirmed by positive staining of tissue with anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies; however, T. gondii tachyzoites were not observed histologically in any of the examined tissues. This is the first case of presumptive noise-induced hearing loss and demonstration of T. gondii cysts in the brain of a free-ranging harbour porpoise from the North Sea. Abstract Evidence of hearing impairment was identified in a harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) on the basis of scanning electron microscopy. In addition, based on histopathology and immunohistochemistry, there were signs of unrelated cerebral toxoplasmosis. The six-year old individual live stranded on the Dutch coast at Domburg in 2016 and died a few hours later. The most significant gross lesion was multifocal necrosis and haemorrhage of the cerebrum. Histopathology of the brain revealed extensive necrosis and haemorrhage in the cerebrum with multifocal accumulations of degenerated neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages, and perivascular lymphocytic cuffing. The diagnosis of cerebral toxoplasmosis was confirmed by positive staining of protozoa with anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies. Tachyzoites were not observed histologically in any of the examined tissues. Ultrastructural evaluation of the inner ear revealed evidence of scattered loss of outer hair cells in a 290 µm long segment of the apical turn of the cochlea, and in a focal region of ~ 1.5 mm from the apex of the cochlea, which was compatible with noise-induced hearing loss. This is the first case of concurrent presumptive noise-induced hearing loss and toxoplasmosis in a free-ranging harbour porpoise from the North Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Morell
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761 Büsum, Germany;
- Zoology Department, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (S.A.R.); (R.E.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (L.L.I.)
| | - Lonneke L. IJsseldijk
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (A.J.B.); (A.G.); (M.J.L.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (L.L.I.)
| | - Alinda J. Berends
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (A.J.B.); (A.G.); (M.J.L.K.)
| | - Andrea Gröne
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (A.J.B.); (A.G.); (M.J.L.K.)
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761 Büsum, Germany;
| | - Stephen A. Raverty
- Zoology Department, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (S.A.R.); (R.E.S.)
- Animal Health Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2M3, Canada
| | - Robert E. Shadwick
- Zoology Department, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (S.A.R.); (R.E.S.)
| | - Marja J. L. Kik
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; (A.J.B.); (A.G.); (M.J.L.K.)
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Fatal Blowhole Obstruction by Eel in Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Florida, USA. J Wildl Dis 2021; 57:959-963. [PMID: 34410420 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-21-00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Esophageal and pharyngeal obstruction are commonly reported in marine mammals, but asphyxiation from blowhole and nasal cavity obstruction has been reported only rarely: in two long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas), several harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), and one common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). We describe two cases of blowhole obstruction and subsequent asphyxiation in bottlenose dolphins caused by eels. A whip eel (Bascanichthys scuticaris) was found obstructing the blowhole of a deceased dolphin from the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, US (2011) and a shrimp eel (Ophichthus gomesii) was found obstructing the blowhole of a deceased dolphin from Tampa Bay, Florida (2020). Normally, the respiratory and digestive tracts of cetaceans do not communicate. Consuming large or oddly shaped prey can result in laryngeal displacement and subsequent interaction between the two systems. It is likely the eels entered the oral cavity while the dolphins were consuming or playing with prey, and laryngeal displacement enabled the eels to slither into and become stuck in the nasal passage, causing asphyxiation. These novel findings underscore the importance of continued investigation into causes of mortality in stranded marine mammals and can contribute to the knowledge of feeding ecology in bottlenose dolphins. As changing environmental conditions contribute to shifts in prey availability and abundance, mortality due to prey-related asphyxiation could become more common in odontocetes.
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Lehnert K, IJsseldijk LL, Uy ML, Boyi JO, van Schalkwijk L, Tollenaar EA, Gröne A, Wohlsein P, Siebert U. Whale lice ( Isocyamus deltobranchium & Isocyamus delphinii; Cyamidae) prevalence in odontocetes off the German and Dutch coasts - morphological and molecular characterization and health implications. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 15:22-30. [PMID: 33936945 PMCID: PMC8079326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Whale lice (Cyamidae; Amphipoda) are ectoparasitic crustaceans adapted to the marine environment with cetaceans as their host. There are few reports of cyamids occurring in odontocetes from the North Sea, and long-term studies are lacking. Marine mammal health was monitored along the German and Dutch coasts in the past decades, with extensive post mortem investigations conducted. The aim of this study was to analyse archived ectoparasite samples from stranded cetaceans from the North Sea (2010-2019), to determine species, prevalence and impact of ectoparasite infection. Ectoparasites were found on two cetacean species - harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), as the most abundant cetacean species in the North Sea, and on a pilot whale (Globicephala melas), as a rare species here. Prevalence of ectoparasitic crustaceans in cetaceans was low: 7.6% in porpoises stranded in the Netherlands (n = 608) and 1.6% in porpoises stranded in Germany (n = 122). All whale lice infections were found on hosts with skin lesions characterised by ulcerations. Morphological investigations revealed characteristic differences between the cyamid species Isocyamus (I.) delphinii and I. deltobranchium identified. Isocyamus deltobranchium was determined in all infected harbour porpoises. I. delphinii was identified on only the pilot whale. Molecular analyses showed 88% similarity of mDNA COI sequences of I. delphinii with I. deltobranchium supporting them as separate species. Phylogenetic analyses of additional gene loci are required to fully assess the diversity and exchange of whale lice species between geographical regions as well as host specificity. Differing whale lice prevalences in porpoises stranded in the Netherlands and Germany could indicate a difference in severity of skin lesions between these areas. It should be further investigated if more inter- or intraspecific contact, e.g., due to a higher density of porpoises or contact with other cetaceans, or a poorer health status of porpoises in the southern North Sea could explain these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Lonneke L. IJsseldijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584CL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - May Li Uy
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Joy Ometere Boyi
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Linde van Schalkwijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584CL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline A.P. Tollenaar
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584CL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea Gröne
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584CL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
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Dzido J, Rolbiecki L, Izdebska JN, Rokicki J, Kuczkowski T, Pawliczka I. A global checklist of the parasites of the harbor porpoise Phocoena phocoena, a critically-endangered species, including new findings from the Baltic Sea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2021; 15:290-302. [PMID: 34336594 PMCID: PMC8313437 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The common harbor porpoise is a widely-distributed marine mammal with three known subspecies, including P. phocoena phocoena, with a clearly distinct and critically endangered (CR) subpopulation from the Baltic Sea (Baltic Proper). As part of an assessment of the condition and health threats of these mammals, it is important to conduct parasitological monitoring. The aim of the study was therefore to compare the data on porpoise parasitofauna from this subpopulation with those on porpoises from other areas. The study included 37 individuals from 1995 to 2019; eight species of parasites were found (prevalence 83.8%, mean intensity 724.2, range 2-3940), with a predominance of lung nematodes - Stenurus minor (94.7%), Torynurus convolutus (69.4%), Pseudalius inflexus (63.8%), Halocercus invaginatus (22.2%); the highest intensity was recorded for S. minor (989, 53-2928). Two species of Anisakidae (Anisakis simplex - 33.3%, Contracaecum sp. - 20.0%) were found in the digestive tracts, which were a new record for this population. The fluke Campula oblonga was found in the livers of 31.3% of porpoises. The tapeworm Diphylobothrium stemmacephalum was also recorded in the intestine of one individual; this is typical for these hosts, but previously undetected in the Baltic subpopulation. Parasites coexisted in numerous hosts, constituting a heavy burden for them. The obtained data were compared with those from the P. phocoena parasitofauna from other regions, based on a compiled checklist (1809-2021) including all species of porpoise parasites (55 taxa). Compared to the worldwide porpoise parasitofauna checklist, the number of parasites found in the nominative subspecies (Baltic Proper subpopulation) is small: including only 10 taxa (eight in the current study). These species are typical of porpoises and usually the most common; however, the level of infection of Baltic porpoises (intensity and total parasite load) is very high, which can undoubtedly have a negative impact on their condition and overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Dzido
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Leszek Rolbiecki
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna N Izdebska
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jerzy Rokicki
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Tytus Kuczkowski
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- Institute of Oceanography, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Morska 2, 84-150, Hel, Poland
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Schnitzler JG, Das K, Wohlsein P, Kuiken T, Ludwig A, Lieckfeldt D, Phan C, Phay S, Siebert U. The Irrawaddy dolphin, Orcaella brevirostris from the Mekong river Cambodia: Preliminary health and toxicological investigations. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 234:105812. [PMID: 33799112 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The subpopulation of the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) living in the Mekong River, Cambodia, is considered to be critically endangered. The aim of the investigation was to gain information about the genetic variation, health status and exposure to toxic compounds of these dolphins. Tissue samples from 27 Irrawaddy river dolphins found dead along the Mekong River between 2004 and 2009 were analysed with regards to genetics, pathology and ecotoxicology. Genetic maternal lineage detection, based on polymorphisms of the mitochondrial d-loop sequences, was performed. Data indicate a genetic separation of the Mekong dolphins from both the coastal population and the Mahakam dolphins. Pathological investigations revealed acute moderate multifocal suppurative bronchopneumonia, moderate periportal hepatic lipidosis, moderate diffuse hepatic atrophy and acute severe diffuse suppurative leptomeningitis. Residue levels of organochlorines and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in Irrawaddy dolphins from the Mekong River were lower than the concentrations reported for other cetaceans in the coastal and riverine waters of Asia, except for Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. A high percentage of organic mercury compared to the immuno-toxic methylmercury was observed. Due to numerous confounding factors, it is not possible to relate levels of pollutants to observed morphological lesions. However, it is likely that chemical contaminants do adversely impact on the health of the Irrawaddy dolphins at present, and have also affected previous generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Schnitzler
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Krishna Das
- Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of research (FOCUS-Oceanology), University of Liege, Belgium
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Thijs Kuiken
- Department of Virology, Erasmus MC, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arne Ludwig
- Leibniz-Institut für Zoo- und Wildtierforschung (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Lieckfeldt
- Leibniz-Institut für Zoo- und Wildtierforschung (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
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Reckendorf A, Everaarts E, Bunskoek P, Haulena M, Springer A, Lehnert K, Lakemeyer J, Siebert U, Strube C. Lungworm infections in harbour porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena) in the German Wadden Sea between 2006 and 2018, and serodiagnostic tests. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 14:53-61. [PMID: 33489750 PMCID: PMC7809178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Pseudaliid lungworm (Metastrongyloidea) infections and associated secondary bacterial infections may severely affect the health status of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in German waters. The presented retrospective analysis including data from 259 harbour porpoises stranded between 2006 and 2018 on the German federal state of Schleswig-Holstein's North Sea coast showed that 118 (46%) of these stranded individuals harboured a lungworm infection. During this 13-year period, a significant difference in annual lungworm prevalence was only observed between the years 2006 and 2016. Lungworm coinfections of bronchi and pulmonary blood vessels were observed in 85.6% of positive cases. Mild infection levels were detected in 22.9% of infected animals and were most common in the age class of immature individuals (74.1%). Moderate and severe infections were present in 38.1% and 39.0% of the lungworm positive animals, respectively. Their distribution in immatures (51.1% and 54.3%) and adults (48.9% and 43.4%) did not show significant differences. In stranded animals, lungworm diagnosis can be easily obtained via necropsy, while reliable lungworm diagnosis in living porpoises requires invasive bronchoscopy or faecal examination, which is difficult to obtain in cetaceans. To overcome this issue, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblot based on recombinant major sperm protein (MSP) of the cattle lungworm were evaluated as potential diagnostic tools in harbour porpoises. However, in contrast to hitherto other investigated host species, no reliable antibody response pattern was detectable in harbour porpoise serum/plasma or whole blood samples. Thus, MSP-based serological tests are considered unsuitable for lungworm diagnosis in harbour porpoises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Reckendorf
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Eligius Everaarts
- SOS Dolfijn Foundation, Van Ewijckskade 1, 1761 JA, Anna Paulowna, the Netherlands
| | - Paulien Bunskoek
- Dolfinarium, Zuiderzeeboulevard 22, 3841 WB, Harderwijk, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Haulena
- Vancouver Aquarium, 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC, V6G 3E2, Canada
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, D-25761, Buesum, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
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Nematode Parasites in Baltic Sea Mammals, Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus (Fabricius, 1791)) and Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena (L.)), from the German Coast. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:26-33. [PMID: 32642980 PMCID: PMC7985102 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00246-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Endoparasitic nematodes of six harbour porpoises Phocoena phocoena and four grey seals Halichoerus grypus, stranded at the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea in Germany in winter 2019, were analysed in order to identify nematode parasites and to compare with recent studies from the same area. Methods Endoparasitic nematodes were identified by using both morphological and molecular characters. The successfully obtained sequences of the rDNA marker regions ITS-1, 5.8S, ITS-2 from 29 anisakid and the rDNA marker region ITS-2 of 11 pseudalid nematodes were amplified. Results Analyses revealed the presence of three parasite species, the anisakid nematode Contracaecum osculatum from grey seals and the pseudalid nematodes Pseudalius inflexus and Stenurus minor from the harbour porpoises. Other anisakid nematodes regularly occurring in the Baltic Sea, e.g. Anisakis simplex or Pseudoterranova decipiens, were not found. Conclusions The prevalence of 100% and a severe parasite load in grey seals demonstrated a very high C. osculatum infection of Baltic Sea fish as their regular prey. Prevalence of 33% for parasites in harbour porpoises and minor infection rates, combined with a distinct lack of anisakid nematodes, are typical for the current situation of the porpoise parasite fauna in the Baltic Sea. Invasive parasite species as possible indicators for climate change could not be detected.
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IJsseldijk LL, Scheidat M, Siemensma ML, Couperus B, Leopold MF, Morell M, Gröne A, Kik MJL. Challenges in the Assessment of Bycatch: Postmortem Findings in Harbor Porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena) Retrieved From Gillnets. Vet Pathol 2021; 58:405-415. [PMID: 33272139 PMCID: PMC7961740 DOI: 10.1177/0300985820972454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bycatch is considered one of the most significant threats affecting cetaceans worldwide. In the North Sea, bottom-set gillnets are a specific risk for harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Methods to estimate bycatch rates include on-board observers, remote electronic monitoring, and fishermen voluntarily reporting; none of these are systematically conducted. Additionally, necropsies of stranded animals can provide insights into bycatch occurrence and health status of individuals. There are, however, uncertainties when it comes to the assessment of bycatch in stranded animals, mainly due to the lack of diagnostic tools specific for underwater entrapment. We conducted a literature review to establish criteria that aid in the assessment of bycatch in small cetaceans, and we tested which of these criteria applied to harbor porpoises retrieved from gillnets in the Netherlands (n = 12). Twenty-five criteria were gathered from literature. Of these, "superficial incisions," "encircling imprints," and "recent ingestion of prey" were observed in the vast majority of our confirmed bycatch cases. Criteria like "pulmonary edema," "pulmonary emphysema," and "organ congestion" were also frequently observed, although considered unspecific as an indicator of bycatch. Notably, previously mentioned criteria as "favorable health status," "absence of disease," or "good nutritional condition" did not apply to the majority of our bycaught porpoises. This may reflect an overall reduced fitness of harbor porpoises inhabiting the southern North Sea or a higher chance of a debilitated porpoise being bycaught, and could result in an underestimation of bycatch rates when assessing stranded animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lonneke L. IJsseldijk
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Bram Couperus
- Wageningen Marine Research, Ijmuiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Maria Morell
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Büsum, Germany
| | - Andrea Gröne
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Marja J. L. Kik
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
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Streptococcal Infections in Marine Mammals. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9020350. [PMID: 33578962 PMCID: PMC7916692 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine mammals are sentinels for the marine ecosystem and threatened by numerous factors including infectious diseases. One of the most frequently isolated bacteria are beta-hemolytic streptococci. However, knowledge on ecology and epidemiology of streptococcal species in marine mammals is very limited. This review summarizes published reports on streptococcal species, which have been detected in marine mammals. Furthermore, we discuss streptococcal transmission between and adaptation to their marine mammalian hosts. We conclude that streptococci colonize and/or infect marine mammals very frequently, but in many cases, streptococci isolated from marine mammals have not been further identified. How these bacteria disseminate and adapt to their specific niches can only be speculated due to the lack of respective research. Considering the relevance of pathogenic streptococci for marine mammals as part of the marine ecosystem, it seems that they have been neglected and should receive scientific interest in the future.
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Assessing seal carcasses potentially subjected to grey seal predation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:694. [PMID: 33436933 PMCID: PMC7804150 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80737-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to conduct an objective evaluation of potential ecological effects of grey seal predation on marine mammals, it is essential to establish a broad knowledge base helping in the thorough identification of such cases during post-mortem examination. The aim of this work is to report and discuss outcomes resulting from a retrospective evaluation of harbour (Phoca vitulina) and grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) stranding and necropsy data (n = 3274). In addition, the results are compared to a recent case of definite grey seal predation from Germany as well as reports from other countries. Carcasses potentially subjected to grey seal predation show severe lacerations with a circular pattern leaving a smooth, linear and cut-like wound margin. Large parts of skin and underlying tissue are detached from the body and loss of blubber is common. Occurrence frequencies of encountered lesions are presented and a list of parameters to be used for the assessment of similar cases as well as a complementary decision tree are suggested. With the proposed parameters, categories and tools, a baseline can be built in order to facilitate the standardised recognition of predation cases during post-mortem examinations of seals between groups working with populations across several geographic ranges.
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Handle with Care—Microplastic Particles in Intestine Samples of Seals from German Waters. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su122410424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) aims to reduce the marine debris burden in the marine environment by 2020. This requires an assessment of the actual situation, which includes the occurrence as well as the caused impacts. Information on both is scarce when it comes to top predators like marine mammals and the burden of microplastic. This is hampered by the limited access to free ranging marine mammals for collecting samples, as well as sample handling. The present study investigated gastrointestinal tracts and faecal samples of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) regularly occurring in the German North Sea and Baltic Sea with the aim of gaining information on the occurrence of microplastics. In total, 255 particles ≥100 µm (70 fibres, 185 fragments) were found in exemplary ten intestine and nine faecal samples. The findings ranged from zero fibres and six fragments, up to 35 fibres and 55 fragments per sample. Additionally, this study established a protocol for sample handling, microplastic isolation (≥100 µm) and quantification of gastrointestinal tracts and faecal samples of marine mammals with a low share of contamination. This approach helps to quantify the presence of microplastics in free-ranging marine mammals and is therefore applicable to assess the real burden of microplastic presence in the marine environment.
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Gross S, Roller M, Haslob H, Grilo M, Lakemeyer J, Reckendorf A, Wohlsein P, Siebert U. Spatiotemporal accumulation of fatal pharyngeal entrapment of flatfish in harbour porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena) in the German North Sea. PeerJ 2020; 8:e10160. [PMID: 33150078 PMCID: PMC7583609 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of a permanent separation of the upper respiratory and digestive tract is one of the adaptions cetaceans evolved for their aquatic life. Generally, it prevents odontocetes from choking on either saltwater or foreign bodies during ingestion under water. Nevertheless, several sporadic single case reports from different parts of the world show that this separation can be reversed especially by overly large items of prey. This incident can have a fatal outcome for the odontocetes. The German federal state of Schleswig-Holstein has a year-round, permanent and systematic stranding network that retrieves stranded marine mammals from its shorelines and constantly enables post-mortem examinations. In 2016, with nine affected animals, a high incidence of fatal pharyngeal entrapment of flatfish in harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) occurred during spring and early summer on the German North Sea island of Sylt. All flatfish were identified as common sole (Solea solea). A retrospective post-mortem data analysis over a 30-year period from the North and Baltic Sea revealed similar yearly and seasonally case accumulations on the same island in the 1990s as well as several single case events over the whole timespan. All cases except one were caused by flatfish. When flatfish speciation was performed, only common sole was identified. From 1990 to 2019, of all examined harbour porpoises, 0.3% (2/713) from the Baltic Sea and 5.5% (45/820) from the North Sea died due to fish entrapped in the pharynx. On the North Sea coast, the occurrence of fatal obstruction shows high yearly variations from 0 to 33.3%. Years that stand out are especially 1990 to 1992, 1995, as well as 2016. The majority of all cases generally occurred between April and July, indicating also a seasonality of cases. This study evaluates the occurrence of fatal pharyngeal entrapment of fish in two geographically separated harbour porpoise populations. Additionally, common sole is clearly identified as a potentially risky item of prey for these small odontocetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Marco Roller
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Holger Haslob
- Thünen-Institute of Sea Fisheries, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Miguel Grilo
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany.,CIISA-Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Anja Reckendorf
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany
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Siebert U, Blanchet MA, Teilmann J, Anderson Hansen K, Kristensen J, Bunskoek P, Dietz R, Desforges JP, Sonne C, Desportes G. Haematology and clinical blood chemistry in harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) from the inner Danish waters. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105937. [PMID: 32673908 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in the Baltic Sea are under increasing pressure from anthropogenic activities, which affect the overall health of populations. Individuals' haematologic and biochemistry parameters are known to be linked to a population's health status and are therefore useful tools for cross-population comparisons and to assess health patterns of a population through time. However, it is often difficult to acquire data representing the full range of values and assess the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Here, we present the range of haematology and blood chemistry values obtained from 46 wild (n = 54 blood samples) individuals incidentally caught in pound-nets and five porpoises in long-term human care (n = 449 blood samples) from an outdoor semi-open facility in Denmark. Although it was not possible to formally test the differences between samples from free-ranging and captive individuals, lymphocyte values were lower for free-ranging animals whereas eosinophils and white blood cell values were higher in captive individuals. Aspartate aminotransferase and alanin aminotransferase values were also lower for captive individuals compared to free-ranging ones. Age group did not influence any of the blood parameters tested for free-ranging individuals. Sodium values were higher for males compared to females. Values were higher and lower in the fall for platelets and lactic acid dehydrogenase, respectively, compared to the other seasons. Based on samples yielded by individuals in long-term human care, haemoglobin, mean cell volume, white blood cells, absolute lymphocyte count, and alkaline phosphatase values were all influenced by health status based on clinical examination. These are therefore candidate parameters to assess health status of wild porpoises. Our results underline that it is essential to obtain ranges of reference values for all haematologic and biochemistry markers in order to assess health status of free-ranging individuals. Individuals in human care provide the opportunity to observe biological and ecological determinates (e.g. age, season) of long-term biomarker response patterns and to assess the suite of biomarkers best suited to predict individual health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany; Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Marie-Anne Blanchet
- Fjord and Belt, Kerteminde, Denmark; Norwegian College of Fishery Science, the Arctic University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Kirstin Anderson Hansen
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Büsum, Germany; Fjord and Belt, Kerteminde, Denmark
| | | | | | - Rune Dietz
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Christian Sonne
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Geneviève Desportes
- Fjord and Belt, Kerteminde, Denmark; North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission, Tromsø, Norway
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van Neer A, Gross S, Kesselring T, Grilo ML, Ludes-Wehrmeister E, Roncon G, Siebert U. Assessing harbour porpoise carcasses potentially subjected to grey seal predation. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16345. [PMID: 33004890 PMCID: PMC7530704 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73258-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As a follow-up on the data presented for seals, we herein report and discuss outcomes resulting from a retrospective evaluation of harbour porpoise stranding and necropsy data from Schleswig-Holstein, Germany (n = 4463) to enable an objective evaluation of potential ecological effects of grey seal predation on porpoises. Results are compared to a recent case of definite grey seal predation as well as to reports from other countries. Porpoise carcasses potentially subject to grey seal predation show severe lacerations, with large parts of skin and underlying tissue being detached from the body. Loss of blubber tissue is common. Based on the occurrence frequencies of encountered lesions, a list of parameters as well as a complementary decision tree are suggested to be used for future assessments. The results shown add to an increasingly standardised assessment protocol of suspected grey seal predation cases making respective results comparable between different areas and countries. The usage of a standardised protocol may increase the awareness of grey seal predation and the reporting of such cases. By this, differences in the predation and feeding patterns as well as the potential ecological relevance of this behaviour may be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbo van Neer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany.
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Tina Kesselring
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Miguel L Grilo
- CIISA - Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eva Ludes-Wehrmeister
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Giulia Roncon
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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Siebert U, Pawliczka I, Benke H, von Vietinghoff V, Wolf P, Pilāts V, Kesselring T, Lehnert K, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Galatius A, Anker Kyhn L, Teilmann J, Hansen MS, Sonne C, Wohlsein P. Health assessment of harbour porpoises (PHOCOENA PHOCOENA) from Baltic area of Denmark, Germany, Poland and Latvia. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105904. [PMID: 32615352 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), the only resident cetacean species of the Baltic Sea is formed of two subpopulations populations, occurring in the western Baltic, Belt Seas and Kattegat and the Baltic Proper, respectively. Harbour porpoises throughout these areas are exposed to a large number of human activities causing direct and indirect effects on individuals, that might also harm this species on a population level. From Latvia, Poland, Germany and Denmark 385 out of 1769 collected dead harbour porpoises were suitable for extensive necropsy. The animals were collected between 1990 and 2015 and were either by-caught or found dead on the coastline. Following necropsies, histopathological, microbiological, virological and parasitological investigations were conducted. Females and males were equally distributed among the 385 animals. Most animals from the different countries were juveniles between 3 months and 3 years old (varying between 46.5 and 100% of 385 animals per country). The respiratory tract had the highest number of morphological lesions, including lungworms in 25 to 58% and pneumonia in 21 to 58% of the investigated animals. Of those with pneumonia 8 to 33% were moderate or severe. The alimentary, hearing, and haematopoietic systems had inflammatory lesions and parasitic infections with limited health impact. 45.5 to 100% of the animals from the different countries were known by-caught individuals, of which 20 to 100% varying between countries had netmarks. Inflammatory lesions, especially in the respiratory tract were found in higher numbers when compared to control populations in areas with less human activities such as arctic waters. The high number of morphological changes in the respiratory tract and of bycatches especially among immature animals before reaching sexual maturity is of serious concern, as well as the low number of adult animals among the material. Data on health status and the causes of death are valuable for management. A next step in this regard will combine data from health and genetic investigations in order to detect differences between the two populations of the Baltic.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany; Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - I Pawliczka
- Prof. Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, Department of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk, Morska 2, 84-150 Hel, Poland
| | - H Benke
- German Oceanographic Museum, Katharinenberg 14/20, 18347 Stralsund, Germany
| | - V von Vietinghoff
- German Oceanographic Museum, Katharinenberg 14/20, 18347 Stralsund, Germany
| | - P Wolf
- Landesveterinär- und Lebensmitteluntersuchungsamt Rostock, Thierfelder Str. 18, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - V Pilāts
- Nature Conservation Agency, Baznīcas iela 7, Sigulda LV-2150, Latvia
| | - T Kesselring
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - K Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - E Prenger-Berninghoff
- Institute for Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Frankfurter Str. 85-87, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - A Galatius
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - L Anker Kyhn
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - J Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - M S Hansen
- Section of Pathology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Ridebanevej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - C Sonne
- Marine Mammal Research, Institute of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - P Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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Gross S, Claus P, Wohlsein P, Kesselring T, Lakemeyer J, Reckendorf A, Roller M, Tiedemann R, Siebert U. Indication of lethal interactions between a solitary bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in the German Baltic Sea. BMC ZOOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40850-020-00061-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Aggressive interactions between bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) have been reported in different parts of the world since the late 1990s. In the Baltic Sea, harbor porpoises are the only native cetacean species, while bottlenose dolphins may appear there temporarily. In the fall of 2016, a solitary male photo-identified bottlenose dolphin stayed in the German Baltic Sea of Schleswig-Holstein for 3 months. During that time, the necropsies of the stranded harbor porpoises revealed types of trauma of varying degrees in six animals, which is unusual in this area. The purpose of this study was to determine if the appearance of the bottlenose dolphin could be linked to the trauma of the harbor porpoise carcasses.
Results
Pathological findings in these animals included subcutaneous, thoracic and abdominal hemorrhages, multiple, mainly bilateral, rib fractures, and one instance of lung laceration. These findings correspond with the previously reported dolphin-caused injuries in other regions. Moreover, public sighting reports showed a spatial and temporal correlation between the appearance of the dolphin and the stranding of fatally injured harbor porpoises.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that no attack has been witnessed in German waters to date, our findings indicate the first record of lethal interactions between a bottlenose dolphin and harbor porpoises in the German Baltic Sea. Furthermore, to our knowledge, this is the first report of porpoise aggression by a socially isolated bottlenose dolphin.
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Lakemeyer J, Siebert U, Abdulmawjood A, Ryeng KA, IJsseldijk LL, Lehnert K. Anisakid nematode species identification in harbour porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena) from the North Sea, Baltic Sea and North Atlantic using RFLP analysis. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2020; 12:93-98. [PMID: 32489854 PMCID: PMC7260678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are the only native cetacean species in the German North and Baltic Seas and the final host of Anisakis (A.) simplex, which infects their first and second gastric compartments and may cause chronic ulcerative gastritis. Anisakis simplex belongs to the family Anisakidae (Ascaridoidea, Rhabditida) as well as the phocine gastric nematode species Pseudoterranova (P.) decipiens and Contracaecum (C.) osculatum. These nematode species are the main causative agents for the zoonosis anisakidosis. The taxonomy of these genus with life cycles including crustaceans and commercially important fish is complex because of the formation of sibling species. Little is known about anisakid species infecting porpoises in the study area. Mature nematodes and larval stages are often identifiable only by molecular methods due to high morphological and genetic similarity. The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method is an alternative to sequencing and was applied to identify anisakid nematodes found in harbour porpoises from the North Sea, Baltic Sea and North Atlantic to species level for the first time. In the study areas, five gastric nematodes from different harbour porpoise hosts were selected to be investigated with restriction enzymes HinfI, RsaI and HaeIII, which were able to differentiate several anisakid nematode species by characteristic banding patterns. Anisakis simplex s. s. was the dominant species found in the North Sea and Baltic porpoises, identified by all three restriction enzymes. Additionally, a hybrid of A. simplex s. s. and A. pegreffii was determined by HinfI in the North Sea samples. Within the North Atlantic specimens, A. simplex s. s., P. decipiens s. s. and Hysterothylacium (H.) aduncum were identified by all enzymes. This demonstrates the value of the RFLP method and the chosen restriction enzymes for the species identification of a broad variety of anisakid nematodes affecting the health of marine mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Amir Abdulmawjood
- Institute of Food Quality and Food Safety, Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kathrine A. Ryeng
- Institute of Marine Research, Fram Centre, P.O. Box 6606 Langnes, NO, 9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lonneke L. IJsseldijk
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584, CL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW), University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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Nakagun S, Kobayashi Y. Histochemical and Immunohistochemical Characterizations of Hepatic Trematodiasis in Odontocetes. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:336. [PMID: 32714946 PMCID: PMC7344244 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic trematodiasis is a common condition in a number of free-ranging cetacean species, which occasionally result in severe hepatic and/or pancreatic lesions. However, even the basic pathological information of this disease is unknown for the majority of affected species. The current study describes and compares the histomorphology and immune reaction induced by hepatic trematodes of the family Brachycladiidae in the liver of the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena, n = 8), Dall's porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli, n = 8), and Hubbs' beaked whale (Mesoplodon carlhubbsi, n = 2). Immunohistochemistry for eight antibodies (CK19, CD3, Foxp3, CD20, Iba1, CD68, CD163, and CD204) was conducted to analyze the pathology of these parasitic infections. In all three odontocete species, the changes observed in the trematode-affected biliary epithelium were comparable with marked hyperplasia and goblet cell metaplasia, as well as lymphoplasmacytic and eosinophilic inflammation. Additionally, regions of the Glisson's sheath were diffusely and severely fibrotic in all examined species, regardless of the physical presence of trematodes. Differences among the three species included the presence of characteristic lymphoid follicles formed in the fibrotic bile duct walls of only the two porpoise species. In the Hubbs' beaked whale, the degree of lymphoplasmacytic cholangitis was more severe, and ductular reaction was generally more prominent. In terms of the overall macrophage population among the three species, CD163- and CD204-positive cells (M2 macrophages) outnumbered Iba1- and CD68-positive cells (M1 macrophages), indicating a chronic infection stage in all analyzed individuals. Species-specific differences among the infiltrating macrophages included numbers of CD68-positive cells being significantly more abundant in the harbor porpoises, whereas CD163-positive cells were significantly more numerous in the Dall's porpoises. The numbers of CD204-positive macrophages were higher in the Hubbs' beaked whales compared to those in the porpoises. Trematode species of the harbor and Dall's porpoises were Campula oblonga, while they were Oschmarinella macrorchis in the Hubbs' beaked whales. This study concludes that interspecies differences in the tissue reactions to hepatic trematode infections are present among odontocete species and that the immune reaction varies depending on the species. This information aids in furthering our understanding of the pathogenesis of hepatic trematodiasis in cetaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shotaro Nakagun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yoshiyasu Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
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Schick L, IJsseldijk LL, Grilo ML, Lakemeyer J, Lehnert K, Wohlsein P, Ewers C, Prenger-Berninghoff E, Baumgärtner W, Gröne A, Kik MJL, Siebert U. Pathological Findings in White-Beaked Dolphins ( Lagenorhynchus albirostris) and Atlantic White-Sided Dolphins ( Lagenorhynchus acutus) From the South-Eastern North Sea. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:262. [PMID: 32671103 PMCID: PMC7326107 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the North Sea, white-beaked dolphins (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) occur regularly and are the second most common cetacean in the area, while their close relative, the Atlantic white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus), prefers the deeper waters of the northern North Sea and adjacent Atlantic Ocean. Though strandings of both species have occurred regularly in the past three decades, they have decreased in the southern North Sea during the last years. Studies describing necropsy findings in stranded Lagenorhynchus spp. are, to date, still scarce, while information gained through post-mortem examinations may reveal valuable information about underlying causes of this decline, including age structure and the reproduction status. Therefore, we retrospectively assessed and compared the necropsy results from fresh Lagenorhynchus spp. stranded along the southeastern North Sea between 1990 and 2019. A full necropsy was performed on 24 white-beaked dolphins and three Atlantic white-sided dolphins from the German and Dutch coast. Samples of selected organs were taken for histopathological, bacteriological, mycological, parasitological and virological examinations. The most common post-mortem findings were emaciation, gastritis and pneumonia. Gastritis and ulceration of the stomach was often associated with an anisakid nematode infection. Pneumonia was most likely caused by bacterial infections. Encephalitis was observed in three animals and morbillivirus antigen was detected immunohistochemically in one case. Although the animal also showed pneumonic lesions, virus antigen was only found in the brain. Parasitic infections mainly affected the gastro-intestinal tract. Lungworm infections were only detected in two cases and no associations with pathological alterations were observed. Stenurus spp. were identified in two of three cases of parasitic infections of the ears. Twelve of the 26 white-beaked dolphins stranded in Germany were found between 1993 and 1994, but there was no evidence of epizootic disease events or mass strandings during the monitored period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Schick
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buesum, Germany
| | - Lonneke L IJsseldijk
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Miguel L Grilo
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buesum, Germany.,CIISA - Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buesum, Germany
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buesum, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christa Ewers
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff
- Institute of Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of Animals, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Baumgärtner
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Gröne
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marja J L Kik
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buesum, Germany
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Sonne C, Lakemeyer J, Desforges JP, Eulaers I, Persson S, Stokholm I, Galatius A, Gross S, Gonnsen K, Lehnert K, Andersen-Ranberg EU, Tange Olsen M, Dietz R, Siebert U. A review of pathogens in selected Baltic Sea indicator species. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 137:105565. [PMID: 32070804 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Here we review the state-of-the-art of pathogens in select marine and terrestrial key species of the Baltic Sea, i.e. ringed seal (Pusa hispida), harbour seal (Phoca vitulina), grey seal (Halichoerus grypus), harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), common eider (Somateria mollissima), pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus) and white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla). This review is the first to merge and present available information and baseline data for the FP7 BONUS BaltHealth project: Baltic Sea multilevel health impacts on key species of anthropogenic hazardous substances. Understanding the spread, prevalence and effects of wildlife pathogens is important for the understanding of animal and ecosystem health, ecosystem function and services, as well as human exposure to zoonotic diseases. This review summarises the occurrence of parasites, viruses and bacteria over the past six decades, including severe outbreaks of Phocine Distemper Virus (PDV), the seroprevalence of Influenza A and the recent increase in seal parasites. We show that Baltic high trophic key species are exposed to multiple bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases. Parasites, such as C. semerme and P. truncatum present in the colon and liver Baltic grey seals, respectively, and anisakid nematodes require particular monitoring due to their effects on animal health. In addition, distribution of existing viral and bacterial pathogens, along with the emergence and spread of new pathogens, need to be monitored in order to assess the health status of key Baltic species. Relevant bacteria are Streptococcus spp., Brucella spp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Mycoplasma spp. and Leptospira interrogans; relevant viruses are influenza virus, distemper virus, pox virus and herpes virus. This is of special importance as some of the occurring pathogens are zoonotic and thus also pose a potential risk for human health. Marine mammal handlers, as well as civilians that by chance encounter marine mammals, need to be aware of this risk. It is therefore important to continue the monitoring of diseases affecting key Baltic species in order to assess their relationship to population dynamics and their potential threat to humans. These infectious agents are valuable indicators of host ecology and can act as bioindicators of distribution, migration, diet and behaviour of marine mammals and birds, as well as of climate change and changes in food web dynamics. In addition, infectious diseases are linked to pollutant exposure, overexploitation, immune suppression and subsequent inflammatory disease. Ultimately, these diseases affect the health of the entire ecosystem and, consequently, ecosystem function and services. As global warming is continuously increasing, the impact of global change on infectious disease patterns is important to monitor in Baltic key species in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany.
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Igor Eulaers
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Sara Persson
- Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Iben Stokholm
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany; Evolutionary Genomics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, DK-1350 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Anders Galatius
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany.
| | - Katharina Gonnsen
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany.
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany.
| | - Emilie U Andersen-Ranberg
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health, Dyrlægevej 16, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Morten Tange Olsen
- Evolutionary Genomics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, DK-1350 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany.
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Gkafas GA, de Jong M, Exadactylos A, Raga JA, Aznar FJ, Hoelzel AR. Sex-specific impact of inbreeding on pathogen load in the striped dolphin. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20200195. [PMID: 32156218 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of inbreeding on fitness has been widely studied and provides consequential inference about adaptive potential and the impact on survival for reduced and fragmented natural populations. Correlations between heterozygosity and fitness are common in the literature, but they rarely inform about the likely mechanisms. Here, we investigate a pathology with a clear impact on health in striped dolphin hosts (a nematode infection that compromises lung function). Dolphins varied with respect to their parasite burden of this highly pathogenic lung nematode (Skrjabinalius guevarai). Genetic diversity revealed by high-resolution restriction-associated DNA (43 018 RADseq single nucleotide polymorphisms) analyses showed a clear association between heterozygosity and pathogen load, but only for female dolphins, for which the more heterozygous individuals had lower Sk. guevarai burden. One locus identified by RADseq was a strong outlier in association with parasite load (heterozygous in all uninfected females, homozygous for 94% of infected females), found in an intron of the citron rho-interacting serine/threonine kinase locus (associated with milk production in mammals). Allelic variation at the Class II major histocompatability complex DQB locus was also assessed and found to be associated with both regional variation and with pathogen load. Both sex specificity and the identification of associating functional loci provide insight into the mechanisms by which more inbred individuals may be more susceptible to the infection of this parasite. This provides important insight towards our understanding of the impact of inbreeding in natural populations, relevant to both evolutionary and practical conservation considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios A Gkafas
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.,Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, Fytokou Street 384 46, Volos, Hellas, Greece
| | - Menno de Jong
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Athanasios Exadactylos
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Thessaly, Fytokou Street 384 46, Volos, Hellas, Greece
| | - Juan Antonio Raga
- Unidad de Zoología Marina Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de València, Aptdo 22085, E-46071 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco J Aznar
- Unidad de Zoología Marina Instituto Cavanilles de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Universitat de València, Aptdo 22085, E-46071 Valencia, Spain
| | - A Rus Hoelzel
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
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