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Jones W, Reifová R, Reif J, Synek P, Šíma M, Munclinger P. Sympatry in a nightingale contact zone has no effect on host-specific blood parasite prevalence and lineage diversity. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:357-366. [PMID: 38460721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.03.002] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Parasites are a key driving force behind many ecological and evolutionary processes. Prevalence and diversity of parasites, as well as their effects on hosts, are not uniform across host species. As such, the potential parasite spillover between species can significantly influence outcomes of interspecific interactions. We screened two species of Luscinia nightingales for haemosporidian blood parasites (Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus) along an approximately 3000 km transect in Europe, incorporating areas of host distant allopatry, close allopatry and sympatry. We found significant differences in infection rates between the two host species, with common nightingales having much lower parasite prevalence than thrush nightingales (36.7% versus 83.8%). This disparity was mostly driven by Haemoproteus prevalence, which was significantly higher in thrush nightingales while common nightingales had a small, but significantly higher, Plasmodium prevalence. Furthermore, we found no effect of proximity to the contact zone on infection rate in either host species. Despite having lower infection prevalence, common nightingales were infected with a significantly higher diversity of parasite lineages than thrush nightingales, and lineage assemblages differed considerably between the two species, even in sympatry. This pattern was mostly driven by the large diversity of comparatively rare lineages, while the most abundant lineages were shared between the two host species. This suggests that, despite the close evolutionary relationships between the two nightingales, there are significant differences in parasite prevalence and diversity, regardless of the distance from the contact zone. This suggests that spillover of haemosporidian blood parasites is unlikely to contribute towards interspecific interactions in this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Jones
- Department of Evolutionary Zoology and Human Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Radka Reifová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jiří Reif
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia; Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Petr Synek
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia; Biodviser Ltd. Enterprise House 2 Pass Street Oldham, Manchester OL9 6HZ, United Kingdom
| | - Michal Šíma
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia; Department of Nanotoxicology and Molecular Epidemiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Pavel Munclinger
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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2
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Porretta D, Canestrelli D. The ecological importance of hybridization. Trends Ecol Evol 2023; 38:1097-1108. [PMID: 37620217 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.07.003] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Hybridization as an evolutionary process has been studied in depth over the past few decades. Research has focused on its role in shaping reproductive barriers, its adaptive value, and its genomic consequences. In contrast, our knowledge of ecological dimensions of hybridization is still in its infancy, despite hybridization being an inherently ecological interaction. Using examples from various organisms, we show that hybridization can affect and be affected by non-reproductive interactions, including predation, competition, parasitism, mutualism, commensalism, and organism-environment interactions, with significant implications for community structure and ecosystem functioning. However, since these dimensions of hybridization have mostly been revealed from studies designed to decipher other evolutionary processes, we argue that much of the eco-evolutionary importance of hybridization is yet to be discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Porretta
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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3
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Desingu PA, Nagarajan K. Detection of beak and feather disease virus in India and its implications. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3469-e3478. [PMID: 36316791 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) has been found in Oceania, Africa, Asia and Europe, but the virus has not yet been detected in India. Here we are reporting the detection of BFDV in exotic rainbow lorikeets (Trichoglossus haematodus) in India. In the phylogenetic analysis, India's witnessed BFDV complete genome, replication (Rep) and capsid (Cap) sequences were displayed close to previously reported T. haematodus infecting BFDV from Australia. Further, we observed that the Indian and exotic Psittaciformes except T. haematodus housed together with the BFDV infected rainbow lorikeets did not display clinical signs and were negative for 4-month genome detection. This observation raised the suspicion that BFDV could cause host-specific infections. In addition, our phylogenetic analysis using 361 BFDV complete genome sequences from various bird species revealed that they were mainly grouped according to the specific species. Likewise, similarity plot analysis shows that the BFDV complete genome sequences found in T. haematodus are significantly different in areas such as the origin of Rep, the intergenic region between the 3' ends of the Rep and capsid (Cap) genes, and the Cap gene, compared to the BFDVs found in other birds. Furthermore, the BFDV-host coevolution analysis clarifies that the TimeTree of the evolution of various Psittaciformes bird species is the coevolution of the BFDV complete genome/Rep gene/Rep protein/Cap gene/Cap protein sequences found in the respective bird species. To our best knowledge, it is essential to note that no research has yet provided conclusive scientific evidence or experimental evidence that BFDVs detected from Trichoglossus sp. can infect other bird species. Therefore, it can be expected that the BFDVs found in the exotic bird in India will not infect Indian Psittaciformes. However, we hope that large-scale surveillance of BFDV in Indian birds will help determine the BFDV genome present in Indian birds and take further action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kumaresan Nagarajan
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS), Chennai, India
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Blanch-Lázaro B, Ribot RF, Berg ML, Alexandersen S, Bennett AT. Ability to detect antibodies to beak and feather disease virus in blood on filter paper decreases with duration of storage. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12642. [PMID: 35036139 PMCID: PMC8697771 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12642] [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: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is a circovirus that infects captive and wild psittacine birds, and is of conservation concern. The haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay is used to determine antibody titres against BFDV, and the use of dried blood spots (DBS) on filter paper stored at room temperature has been suggested to be an equally valid technique to the use of frozen serum. However, research on other pathogens has found variable results when investigating the longevity of antibodies stored on DBS at room temperature. Consequently, we aimed to test the temporal stability of antibodies to BFDV in DBS samples stored long-term at room temperature. A further goal was to add to the current knowledge of antibody response to naturally acquired BFDV infection in crimson rosellas (Platycercus elegans). Methods Blood was collected from wild P. elegans in Victoria, Australia, that had been live-trapped (n = 9) or necropsied (n = 11). BFDV virus load data were obtained from blood stored in ethanol by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR); antibody titres were obtained by HI assay from either DBS or serum samples, which had been collected concurrently. All HI assays were performed commercially by the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) in Charles Sturt University, Australia, who were blind to BFDV blood status. Results HI titres from DBS stored at room temperature declined significantly over time (~80 weeks). By contrast, frozen serum samples assayed after 80 weeks in storage all had high HI titres, only varying up to one dilution step from the initial HI titres obtained from DBS at 3–6 weeks after sampling. Weak HI titres from DBS samples all came back negative when the test was repeated only nine weeks later. Novel high HI titres were reported in P. elegans, and while most birds with high antibody titres had corresponding negative qPCR results, a single subadult presented with high HI titres and virus load simultaneously. Conclusion Detection of antibodies on filter paper stored at room temperature decreases over time, increasing the chances of false negatives in these samples, and in repeated testing of samples with weak HI titres. Consequently, serum should be the preferred sample type to use for seroepidemiological studies on BFDV in parrots and other bird species. When not possible, it may help to store DBS on filter paper at −20 °C or lower. However, prompt testing of DBS samples (e.g., <6 weeks in storage) is recommended pending further research on antibody temporal stability. We also show that P. elegans, especially adults, can produce high antibody titres against BFDV, which may help them resist infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Blanch-Lázaro
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raoul F.H. Ribot
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathew L. Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Soren Alexandersen
- Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew T.D. Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Metagenomic detection and characterisation of multiple viruses in apparently healthy Australian Neophema birds. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20915. [PMID: 34686748 PMCID: PMC8536680 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00440-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging viral pathogens are a significant concern, with potential consequences for human, animal and environmental health. Over the past several decades, many novel viruses have been found in animals, including birds, and often pose a significant threat to vulnerable species. However, despite enormous interest in virus research, little is known about virus communities (viromes) in Australian Neophema birds. Therefore, this study was designed to characterise the viromes of Neophema birds and track the evolutionary relationships of recently emerging psittacine siadenovirus F (PsSiAdV-F) circulating in the critically endangered, orange-bellied parrot (OBP, Neophema chrysogaster), using a viral metagenomic approach. This study identified 16 viruses belonging to the families Adenoviridae, Circoviridae, Endornaviridae, Picobirnaviridae and Picornaviridae. In addition, this study demonstrated a potential evolutionary relationship of a PsSiAdV-F sequenced previously from the critically endangered OBP. Strikingly, five adenoviral contigs identified in this study show the highest identities with human adenovirus 2 and human mastadenovirus C. This highlights an important and unexpected aspects of the avian virome and warrants further studies dedicated to this subject. Finally, the findings of this study emphasise the importance of testing birds used for trade or in experimental settings for potential pathogens to prevent the spread of infections.
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Wille M, Shi M, Hurt AC, Klaassen M, Holmes EC. RNA virome abundance and diversity is associated with host age in a bird species. Virology 2021; 561:98-106. [PMID: 34182259 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite the ongoing interest in virus discovery, little is known about the factors that shape communities of viruses within individual hosts. Here, we address how virus communities might be impacted by the age of the hosts they infect, using total RNA sequencing to reveal the RNA viromes of different age groups of Ruddy Turnstones (Arenaria interpres). From oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs we identified 14 viruses likely infecting birds, 11 of which were novel, including members of the Reoviridae, Astroviridae, and Picornaviridae. Strikingly, 12 viruses identified were from juvenile birds sampled in the first year of their life, compared to only two viruses in adult birds. Both viral abundance and alpha diversity were marginally higher in juvenile than adult birds. As well as informing studies of virus ecology, that host age might be associated with viral composition is an important consideration for the future surveillance of novel and emerging viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Wille
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Mang Shi
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aeron C Hurt
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Marcel Klaassen
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Geelong, 3217, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Wader Study Group, Geelong, 3217, Victoria, Australia
| | - Edward C Holmes
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, New South Wales, Australia.
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REPEAT SPILLOVER OF BEAK AND FEATHER DISEASE VIRUS INTO AN ENDANGERED PARROT HIGHLIGHTS THE RISK ASSOCIATED WITH ENDEMIC PATHOGEN LOSS IN ENDANGERED SPECIES. J Wildl Dis 2021; 56:896-906. [PMID: 33600597 DOI: 10.7589/2018-06-154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Conservation efforts for the orange-bellied parrot (Neophema chrysogaster), one of the world's most critically endangered bird species, have been hampered by beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) spillover infection. To understand the vulnerability of orange-bellied parrots to potential reservoirs of infection we investigated geographic versus taxonomic structure in 160 full-genome and 319 partial Rep gene BFDV sequences from captive and wild orange-bellied parrots and other wild parrot species in Australia. We found that Australian BFDV populations are structured by host taxonomy. By identifying genetic stratification of BFDV in reservoir hosts we characterized three separate recent incursions of BFDV into orange-bellied parrots from other wild parrots, which demonstrates the susceptibility of critically endangered species to multiple threats of pathogen re-emergence. Our study highlighted how loss of endemic circulating BFDV in orange-bellied parrots precipitated repeated spillover into an immunologically naïve population, causing significant disease.
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8
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Lee GY, Kim WK, Park K, Lee SH, Hwang J, No JS, Cho S, Lee D, Song DH, Gu SH, Park MS, Jeong ST, Kim YS, Song JW. Phylogeographic diversity and hybrid zone of Hantaan orthohantavirus collected in Gangwon Province, Republic of Korea. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008714. [PMID: 33035222 PMCID: PMC7588125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hantaan orthohantavirus (Hantaan virus, HTNV), harbored by Apodemus agrarius (the striped field mouse), causes hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humans. Viral genome-based surveillance at new expansion sites to identify HFRS risks plays a critical role in tracking the infection source of orthohantavirus outbreak. In the Republic of Korea (ROK), most studies demonstrated the serological prevalence and genetic diversity of orthohantaviruses collected from HFRS patients or rodents in Gyeonggi Province. Gangwon Province is a HFRS-endemic area with a high incidence of patients and prevalence of infected rodents, ROK. However, the continued epidemiology and surveillance of orthohantavirus remain to be investigated. Methodology/Principal findings Whole-genome sequencing of HTNV was accomplished in small mammals collected in Gangwon Province during 2015–2018 by multiplex PCR-based next-generation sequencing. To elucidate the geographic distribution and molecular diversity of viruses, we conducted phylogenetic analyses of HTNV tripartite genomes. We inferred the hybrid zone using cline analysis to estimate the geographic contact between two different HTNV lineages in the ROK. The graph incompatibility based reassortment finder performed reassortment analysis. A total of 12 HTNV genome sequences were completely obtained from A. agrarius newly collected in Gangwon Province. The phylogenetic and cline analyses demonstrated the genetic diversity and hybrid zone of HTNV in the ROK. Genetic exchange analysis suggested the possibility of reassortments in Cheorwon-gun, a highly HFRS-endemic area. Conclusions/Significance The prevalence and distribution of HTNV in HFRS-endemic areas of Gangwon Province enhanced the phylogeographic map for orthohantavirus outbreak monitoring in ROK. This study revealed the hybrid zone reflecting the genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of HTNV circulating in Gangwon Province. The results arise awareness of rodent-borne orthohantavirus diseases for physicians in the endemic area of ROK. The genetic and molecular epidemiological studies on small mammals derived from hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS)-endemic areas have consistently conducted for the public health surveillance and mitigation of orthohantavirus outbreak in the Republic of Korea (ROK). Implementing viral genome-based surveillance at new expansion sites that may identify HFRS risks is critical for tracking the location of orthohantavirus infections and diagnosing HFRS. In the present study, whole-genome sequences of Hantaan virus (HTNV) from small mammals in Gangwon Province were recovered using multiplex PCR-based next-generation sequencing during 2015–2018. In HFRS-endemic regions including Cheorwon-gun, Chuncheon-si, and Hwacheon-gun, additional HTNV genome sequences contribute to establish a high-resolution phylogeographic map for tracking emerging orthohantavirus-induced diseases. The cline analysis revealed a remarkable hybrid zone by showing spatial contact regions of HTNV at two sites (Cheorwon-gun and Hwacheon-gun) and the spatial separation and sequence divergence across genome segments of HTNV in Gangwon Province. These results demonstrate the genetic diversity and hybrid zone of HTNV circulating in Gangwon Province. These findings increase an awareness raising about HFRS in the endemic area of ROK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geum-Young Lee
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Keun Kim
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungmin Park
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ho Lee
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jusun Hwang
- Wildlife Ecology & Genomics Laboratory, College of Forest & Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun No
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungchan Cho
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Daesang Lee
- 4th R&D Institute, Agency for Defense Development, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyun Song
- 4th R&D Institute, Agency for Defense Development, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hun Gu
- 4th R&D Institute, Agency for Defense Development, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Man-Seong Park
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Tae Jeong
- 4th R&D Institute, Agency for Defense Development, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Su Kim
- Infectious Disease Research Department, Gangwon Institute of Health and Environment, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Won Song
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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9
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Spatial and temporal patterns of lateralization in a parrot species complex. Evol Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10682-020-10069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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10
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Martens JM, Stokes HS, Berg ML, Walder K, Raidal SR, Magrath MJL, Bennett ATD. Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) prevalence, load and excretion in seven species of wild caught common Australian parrots. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235406. [PMID: 32609774 PMCID: PMC7329075 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogens pose a major risk to wild host populations, especially in the face of ongoing biodiversity declines. Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) can affect most if not all members of one of the largest and most threatened bird orders world-wide, the Psittaciformes. Signs of disease can be severe and mortality rates high. Its broad host range makes it a risk to threatened species in particular, because infection can occur via spill-over from abundant hosts. Despite these risks, surveillance of BFDV in locally abundant wild host species has been lacking. We used qPCR and haemagglutination assays to investigate BFDV prevalence, load and shedding in seven abundant host species in the wild in south-east Australia: Crimson Rosellas (Platycercus elegans), Eastern Rosellas (Platycercus eximius), Galahs (Eolophus roseicapillus), Sulphur-crested Cockatoos (Cacatua galerita), Blue-winged Parrots (Neophema chrysostoma), Rainbow Lorikeets (Trichoglossus moluccanus) and Red-rumped Parrots (Psephotus haematonotus). We found BFDV infection in clinically normal birds in six of the seven species sampled. We focused our analysis on the four most commonly caught species, namely Crimson Rosellas (BFDV prevalence in blood samples: 41.8%), Sulphur-crested Cockatoos (20.0%), Blue-winged Parrots (11.8%) and Galahs (8.8%). Species, but not sex, was a significant predictor for BFDV prevalence and load. 56.1% of BFDV positive individuals were excreting BFDV antigen into their feathers, indicative of active viral replication with shedding. Being BFDV positive in blood samples predicted shedding in Crimson Rosellas. Our study confirms that BFDV is endemic in our study region, and can inform targeted disease management by providing comparative data on interspecies variation in virus prevalence, load and shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne M. Martens
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Helena S. Stokes
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathew L. Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shane R. Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, Australia
| | | | - Andy T. D. Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Martens JM, Stokes HS, Berg ML, Walder K, Raidal SR, Magrath MJL, Bennett ATD. A non-invasive method to assess environmental contamination with avian pathogens: beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) detection in nest boxes. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9211. [PMID: 32566393 PMCID: PMC7293853 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Indirect transmission of pathogens can pose major risks to wildlife, yet the presence and persistence of wildlife pathogens in the environment has been little studied. Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is of global conservation concern: it can infect all members of the Psittaciformes, one of the most threatened bird orders, with infection often being lethal. Indirect transmission of BFDV through contaminated nest hollows has been proposed as a major infection source. However, data on whether and for how long nest sites in the wild remain contaminated have been absent. We determined the BFDV status of birds (parents and nestlings) for 82 nests of Crimson Rosellas, Platycercus elegans and Eastern Rosellas, Platycercus eximius. In 11 of these nests (13.4%, 95% confidence interval 6.9-22.7), we found an infected parent or nestling. Using nest swabs, we then compared BFDV presence at three points in time (before, during and after breeding) in three groups of nest boxes. These were nest boxes occupied by infected birds, and two control groups (nest boxes occupied by uninfected birds, and unoccupied nest boxes). Detection of BFDV on nest swabs was strongly associated with the infection status of parents in each nest box and with the timing of breeding. During breeding, boxes occupied by BFDV-positive birds were significantly more likely to have BFDV-positive nest swabs than boxes occupied by BFDV-negative birds; nest swabs tested BFDV-positive in 80% (28.4-99.5) of nests with parental antigen excretion, 66.7% (9.4-99.2) of nests occupied by parents with BFDV-positive cloacal swabs and 66.7% (22.3-95.7) of nests occupied by parents with BFDV-positive blood. 0% (0-52.2) of nests with BFDV-positive nestlings had BFDV-positive nest swabs. Across all boxes occupied by BFDV-positive birds (parents or nestlings), no nest swabs were BFDV-positive before breeding, 36.4% (95% CI 10.9-69.2) were positive during breeding and 9.1% (0.2-41.3) remained positive after breeding. BFDV was present on nest swabs for up to 3.7 months. Our study provides novel insights into the potential role of nest cavities and other fomites in indirect transmission of BFDV, and possibly other pathogens, and offers a non-invasive method for surveillance of pathogens in wild bird populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne M Martens
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helena S Stokes
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathew L Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shane R Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael J L Magrath
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew T D Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
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12
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Martens JM, Stokes HS, Berg ML, Walder K, Bennett ATD. Seasonal fluctuation of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) infection in wild Crimson Rosellas (Platycercus elegans). Sci Rep 2020; 10:7894. [PMID: 32398741 PMCID: PMC7217931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64631-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding patterns of pathogen emergence can help identify mechanisms involved in transmission dynamics. Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) poses a major threat world-wide to wild and captive parrots. Yet data from wild birds on seasonal fluctuations in prevalence and infection intensity, and thereby the potential high-risk times for virus transmission, have been lacking. We screened wild Crimson Rosellas (Platycercus elegans) for BFDV in blood and cloacal swabs. Prevalence in blood samples and cloacal swabs, as well as viral load varied with Julian date and in blood, were highest after the breeding season. Breeding birds had lower viral load and lower BFDV prevalence in blood than non-breeding birds (10.1% prevalence in breeding vs. 43.2% in non-breeding birds). BFDV prevalence was much higher in younger (<3 years) than older (≥3 years) birds for both blood samples (42.9% vs. 4.5%) and cloacal swabs (56.4% vs. 12.3%). BFDV status in blood and cloacal samples was not correlated within individuals. We show that, at least in P. elegans, BFDV infection seems to occur year-round, with seasonal changes in prevalence and load found in our samples. Our analyses suggest that the seasonal changes were associated primarily with the breeding season. We also discuss age and sex as important predictors of BFDV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne M Martens
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
| | - Helena S Stokes
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Mathew L Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Andrew T D Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia
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13
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HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF CAPTIVE PSITTACINE SPECIES IN PRERELEASE PROGRAMS AT COSTA RICAN RESCUE CENTERS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 48:1135-1145. [PMID: 29297799 DOI: 10.1638/2016-0259r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
With stricter laws regulating the capture and possession of wild animals in Costa Rica, local wildlife-rescue centers have been overwhelmed by an influx of confiscated or relinquished illegal pets, specifically of psittacine species. As part of a nationwide health-assessment program targeting these centers, 122 birds representing five psittacine species ( Ara macao, Amazona autumnalis, Amazona auropalliata, Amazona farinosa, Aratinga finschi) and one hybrid macaw ( Ara macao × Ara ambiguus) were examined and tested between January 2011 and October 2012. Physical examination, hematology, and serum biochemical analyses were performed. Blood and feathers were tested for psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDV) and avian polyomavirus (APV) via PCR. A DNA-based prevalence and sequence analysis characterized the strains of PBFDV and APV isolated. Physical abnormalities observed in 36% of the 122 birds examined were limited to thin body condition and poor feather quality. None of the feather abnormalities were characteristic of disease caused by either PBFDV or APV. Results of hematological and biochemical analyses were within normal limits except for five birds with leukocytosis and heterophilia, three birds with uric acid values above 16 mg/dl, and two additional birds with AST values above 400 IU/L. No hemoparasites were detected during blood smear examination. Overall prevalences of 9.8% (12/122) for PBFDV and 3.3% (4/122) for APV were documented, with only one bird testing positive for both PBFDV and APV. Birds from two of the eight centers were negative for both viruses. Findings from this study constitute the beginning of a standardized surveillance program for Costa Rican rescue centers, targeting the management of avian species enrolled in propagation and reintroduction programs and expanding of the spectrum of pathogen surveillance and husbandry recommendations in prerelease centers.
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14
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Kleindorfer S, Custance G, Peters KJ, Sulloway FJ. Introduced parasite changes host phenotype, mating signal and hybridization risk: Philornis downsi effects on Darwin's finch song. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20190461. [PMID: 31185871 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduced parasites that alter their host's mating signal can change the evolutionary trajectory of a species through sexual selection. Darwin's Camarhynchus finches are threatened by the introduced fly Philornis downsi that is thought to have accidentally arrived on the Galapagos Islands during the 1960s. The P. downsi larvae feed on the blood and tissue of developing finches, causing on average approximately 55% in-nest mortality and enlarged naris size in survivors. Here we test if enlarged naris size is associated with song characteristics and vocal deviation in the small tree finch ( Camarhynchus parvulus), the critically endangered medium tree finch ( C. pauper) and the recently observed hybrid tree finch group ( Camarhynchus hybrids). Male C. parvulus and C. pauper with enlarged naris size produced song with lower maximum frequency and greater vocal deviation, but there was no significant association in hybrids. Less vocal deviation predicted faster pairing success in both parental species. Finally, C. pauper males with normal naris size produced species-specific song, but male C. pauper with enlarged naris size had song that was indistinguishable from other tree finches. When parasites disrupt host mating signal, they may also facilitate hybridization. Here we show how parasite-induced naris enlargement affects vocal quality, resulting in blurred species mating signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Kleindorfer
- 1 College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University , Adelaide 5001 , Australia.,2 Konrad Lorenz Research Station and Department of Behavioural Biology, University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Georgina Custance
- 1 College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University , Adelaide 5001 , Australia
| | - Katharina J Peters
- 1 College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University , Adelaide 5001 , Australia
| | - Frank J Sulloway
- 3 Department of Psychology, University of California , 2121 Berkeley Way, Room 3302, 4125 Tolman Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720 , USA
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15
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Baird SJE, Goüy de Bellocq J. Shifting Paradigms for Studying Parasitism in Hybridising Hosts: Response to Theodosopoulos, Hund, and Taylor. Trends Ecol Evol 2019; 34:387-389. [PMID: 30857755 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2019.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J E Baird
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, External Reserch Facility Studenec, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Joëlle Goüy de Bellocq
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, External Reserch Facility Studenec, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65 Brno, Czech Republic
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16
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Cantor E, Lewis T, Louter M, Smith K, Schmitke D, Moore C, Kleindorfer S. Nest site attributes and nesting outcome in the vulnerable eastern Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus monarchoides). T ROY SOC SOUTH AUST 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/03721426.2018.1552825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Cantor
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tamara Lewis
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Marina Louter
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kevin Smith
- Department of Environment and Water, South Australian Regent Parrot Recovery Team, Berri, Australia
| | - Darren Schmitke
- Department of Environment and Water, South Australian Regent Parrot Recovery Team, Berri, Australia
| | - Claire Moore
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sonia Kleindorfer
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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17
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Goüy de Bellocq J, Wasimuddin, Ribas A, Bryja J, Piálek J, Baird SJE. Holobiont suture zones: Parasite evidence across the European house mouse hybrid zone. Mol Ecol 2018; 27:5214-5227. [PMID: 30427096 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Parasite hybrid zones resulting from host secondary contact have never been described in nature although parasite hybridization is well known and secondary contact should affect them similarly to free-living organisms. When host populations are isolated, diverge and recontact, intimate parasites (host specific, direct life cycle) carried during isolation will also meet and so may form parasite hybrid zones. If so, we hypothesize these should be narrower than the host's hybrid zone as shorter parasite generation time allows potentially higher divergence. We investigate multilocus genetics of two parasites across the European house mouse hybrid zone. We find each host taxon harbours its own parasite taxa. These also hybridize: Parasite hybrid zones are significantly narrower than the host's. Here, we show a host hybrid zone is a suture zone for a subset of its parasite community and highlight the potential of such systems as windows on the evolutionary processes of host-parasite interactions and recombinant pathogen emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wasimuddin
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic.,Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alexis Ribas
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic.,Section of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Healthcare and the Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josef Bryja
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Piálek
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Stuart J E Baird
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Brno, Czech Republic
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18
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Parasites and Host Species Barriers in Animal Hybrid Zones. Trends Ecol Evol 2018; 34:19-30. [PMID: 30348471 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Species barriers are tested in hybrid zones when gene flow occurs between hybridizing species. Hybridization can erode species barriers, lead to the introgression of adaptive traits, or remain stable through time. Outcomes in hybrid zones are influenced by divergence between the hybridizing taxa, behavior, ecology, and geography. Parasites and pathogens play a major role in host fitness and appear to have varied impacts on species barriers in hybrid zones. We comprehensively reviewed the literature on parasitism in animal hybrid zones and present an evolutionary framework within which to consider parasite-hybrid interactions. Parasites most frequently show potential to contribute to species barrier breakdown in hybrid zones, but also frequently show potential to facilitate the maintenance of species barriers. Incorporating eco-immunology, parasite community theory, and spatiotemporal approaches will be important as genomic tools allow researchers to examine parasites and hybrid zones at greater resolution and in a diversity of natural habitats.
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19
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Larson ER, Eastwood JR, Micallef S, Wehbe J, Bennett ATD, Berg ML. Nest microclimate predicts bill growth in the Adelaide rosella (Aves: Psittaculidae). Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/bly058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eliza R Larson
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Justin R Eastwood
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Micallef
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jacinta Wehbe
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew T D Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathew L Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Larson ER, Eastwood JR, Buchanan KL, Bennett ATD, Berg ML. Nest box design for a changing climate: The value of improved insulation. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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21
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Eastwood JR, Ribot RFH, Rollins LA, Buchanan KL, Walder K, Bennett ATD, Berg ML. Host heterozygosity and genotype rarity affect viral dynamics in an avian subspecies complex. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13310. [PMID: 29042596 PMCID: PMC5645371 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13476-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic diversity at community, population and individual levels is thought to influence the spread of infectious disease. At the individual level, inbreeding and heterozygosity are associated with increased risk of infection and disease severity. Host genotype rarity may also reduce infection risk if pathogens are co-adapted to common or local hosts, but to date, no studies have investigated the relative importance of genotype rarity and heterozygosity for infection in a wild, sexually reproducing vertebrate. With beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) infection in a wild parrot (Platycercus elegans), we show that both heterozygosity and genotype rarity of individual hosts predicted infection, but in contrasting ways. Heterozygosity was negatively associated with probability of infection, but not with infection load. In contrast, increased host genotype rarity was associated with lower viral load in infected individuals, but did not predict infection probability. These effects were largely consistent across subspecies, but were not evident at the population level. Subspecies and age were also strongly associated with infection. Our study provides novel insights into infection dynamics by quantifying rarity and diversity simultaneously. We elucidate roles that host genetic diversity can play in infection dynamics, with implications for understanding population divergence, intraspecific diversity and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R Eastwood
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia. .,School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3800, Australia.
| | - Raoul F H Ribot
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lee Ann Rollins
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine L Buchanan
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Metabolic Research Unit, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew T D Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mathew L Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3216, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Mihailova M, Berg ML, Buchanan KL, Bennett ATD. Olfactory eavesdropping: The odor of feathers is detectable to mammalian predators and competitors. Ethology 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/eth.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Milla Mihailova
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Mathew L. Berg
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Katherine L. Buchanan
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Geelong Vic. Australia
| | - Andrew T. D. Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Geelong Vic. Australia
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23
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Bistolas KSI, Rudstam LG, Hewson I. Gene expression of benthic amphipods (genus: Diporeia) in relation to a circular ssDNA virus across two Laurentian Great Lakes. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3810. [PMID: 28966890 PMCID: PMC5621510 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular rep-encoding ssDNA (CRESS-DNA) viruses are common constituents of invertebrate viral consortia. Despite their ubiquity and sequence diversity, the effects of CRESS-DNA viruses on invertebrate biology and ecology remain largely unknown. This study assessed the relationship between the transcriptional profile of benthic amphipods of genus Diporeia and the presence of the CRESS-DNA virus, LM29173, in the Laurentian Great Lakes to provide potential insight into the influence of these viruses on invertebrate gene expression. Twelve transcriptomes derived from Diporeia were compared, representing organisms from two amphipod haplotype clades (Great Lakes Michigan and Superior, defined by COI barcode sequencing) with varying viral loads (up to 3 × 106 genome copies organism−1). Read recruitment to de novo assembled transcripts revealed 2,208 significantly over or underexpressed contigs in transcriptomes with above average LM29173 load. Of these contigs, 31.5% were assigned a putative function. The greatest proportion of annotated, differentially expressed transcripts were associated with functions including: (1) replication, recombination, and repair, (2) cell structure/biogenesis, and (3) post-translational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones. Contigs putatively associated with innate immunity displayed no consistent pattern of expression, though several transcripts were significantly overexpressed in amphipods with high viral load. Quantitation (RT-qPCR) of target transcripts, non-muscular myosin heavy chain, β-actin, and ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2, corroborated transcriptome analysis and indicated that Lake Michigan and Lake Superior amphipods with high LM29173 load exhibit lake-specific trends in gene expression. While this investigation provides the first comparative survey of the transcriptional profile of invertebrates of variable CRESS-DNA viral load, additional inquiry is required to define the scope of host-specific responses to potential infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lars G Rudstam
- Department of Natural Resources and the Cornell Biological Field Station, Cornell University, Bridgeport, NY, USA
| | - Ian Hewson
- Department of Microbiology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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24
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Intraspecific geographic variation in rod and cone visual pigment sensitivity of a parrot, Platycercus elegans. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41445. [PMID: 28128324 PMCID: PMC5269728 DOI: 10.1038/srep41445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Variation in wavelength sensitivity among subspecies is unknown among vertebrates. The parrot Platycercus elegans has extreme plumage variation between subspecies ranging from pale yellow to crimson which, with differences in background colour and light environment between subspecies, makes it a good candidate for the evolution of within-species differences in vision. We report differences in visual pigments between populations of P. elegans from two subspecies, providing the first known support for population and subspecies variation in visual pigments within a vertebrate species; it is also the first instance of intraspecific variation in rod sensitivity within any vertebrate species. Differences in wavelength sensitivity of rods and cones corresponded to geographic differences in plumage colour. Between study populations, visual pigments varied but not oil droplets. Adaptive functions for the visual pigment differences are untested but they could cause divergence in behaviours associated with colour as well as in dim light, and provide insights into the role of senses in divergence and speciation.
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25
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Raidal SR, Sarker S, Peters A. Review of psittacine beak and feather disease and its effect on Australian endangered species. Aust Vet J 2016; 93:466-70. [PMID: 26769072 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since it was first described in the early 1980s, psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) has become recognised as the dominant viral pathogen of psittacine birds in Australia. Our aim was to evaluate and review the effect of PBFD and its position as a key threatening process to Australian psittacine bird species. We review the origin/evolutionary pathways and potential threat of PBFD to endangered psittacine bird populations and captive-breeding flocks. CONCLUSIONS The most recent beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) phylogenetic analyses indicate that all endangered Australian psittacine bird species are susceptible to, and equally likely to be infected by, BFDV genotypes from a range of host psittacine species. Management of the disease in captive-breeding programs has relied on testing and culling, which has proven costly. The risk of PBFD should be considered very carefully by management teams contemplating the establishment of captive-breeding flocks for endangered species. Alternative disease prevention tools, including vaccination, which are increasingly being used in wildlife health, should be considered more seriously for managing and preventing PBFD in captive flocks of critically endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia. .,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia.
| | - S Sarker
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia.,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - A Peters
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia.,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
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26
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Fogell DJ, Martin RO, Groombridge JJ. Beak and feather disease virus in wild and captive parrots: an analysis of geographic and taxonomic distribution and methodological trends. Arch Virol 2016; 161:2059-74. [PMID: 27151279 PMCID: PMC4947100 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-016-2871-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) has emerged in recent years as a major threat to wild parrot populations and is an increasing concern to aviculturists and managers of captive populations. Pathological and serological tests for screening for the presence of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) are a critical component of efforts to manage the disease and of epidemiological studies. Since the disease was first reported in the mid-1970s, screening for BFDV has been conducted in numerous wild and captive populations. However, at present, there is no current and readily accessible synthesis of screening efforts and their results. Here, we consolidate information collected from 83 PBFD- and BFDV-based publications on the primary screening methods being used and identify important knowledge gaps regarding potential global disease hotspots. We present trends in research intensity in this field and critically discuss advances in screening techniques and their applications to both aviculture and to the management of threatened wild populations. Finally, we provide an overview of estimates of BFDV prevalence in captive and wild flocks alongside a complete list of all psittacine species in which the virus has been confirmed. Our evaluation highlights the need for standardised diagnostic tests and more emphasis on studies of wild populations, particularly in view of the intrinsic connection between global trade in companion birds and the spread of novel BFDV strains into wild populations. Increased emphasis should be placed on the screening of captive and wild parrot populations within their countries of origin across the Americas, Africa and Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Fogell
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK.
| | - Rowan O Martin
- World Parrot Trust, Glanmor House, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 4HB, UK.,Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jim J Groombridge
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK
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27
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Evidence of a deep viral host switch event with beak and feather disease virus infection in rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus). Sci Rep 2015; 5:14511. [PMID: 26411487 PMCID: PMC4585972 DOI: 10.1038/srep14511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the characterization of psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) in 1984, a wide range of avian circoviruses have been discovered with varying pathogenic effects amongst a diverse range of avian hosts. Until recently these circovirus species were thought to be restricted to within avian Orders such as the Psittaciformes for beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) and Columbiformes for pigeon circovirus with little evidence of cross-family transmission or replication. We report evidence of a naturally occurring novel host switch event with self-limiting BFDV infection in a group of rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus) a species of Coraciiformes unrelated to parrots and not previously known to be susceptible to any avian circovirus. The outbreak highlights important and unexpected aspects of disease emergence and host-switching pertinent to other situations when viruses might cross species boundaries as well as the potential of avian circoviruses to infect disparate host species.
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28
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Jackson B, Varsani A, Holyoake C, Jakob-Hoff R, Robertson I, McInnes K, Empson R, Gray R, Nakagawa K, Warren K. Emerging infectious disease or evidence of endemicity? A multi-season study of beak and feather disease virus in wild red-crowned parakeets (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae). Arch Virol 2015; 160:2283-92. [PMID: 26138559 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-015-2510-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is a single-stranded DNA virus that is the etiological agent of beak and feather disease in both wild and captive parrots. Given that BFDV is globally recognized as a conservation threat for wild parrots, between 2011-2013, red-crowned parakeets (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae, n = 229), which are endemic to New Zealand, were captured in mist nets on Tiritiri Matangi Island and Hauturu-o-Toi/Little Barrier Island (LBI), New Zealand, for disease surveillance. Blood and feathers from all birds were tested by PCR for BFDV, and full genomes were recovered and sequenced. A subset of blood samples (n = 96) were tested for antibodies to BFDV by the haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. A further 238 feather samples were obtained from red-crowned parakeets from three sites in the Wellington region of the North Island, and these were screened for BFDV. The DNA-based prevalence of BFDV infection determined on Tiritiri Matangi Island was 1.09% (CI 95 %, 0.1-3.9%); on Hauturu-o-Toi/LBI, 4.4% (95% CI, 0.5%-15.1%); on Kapiti Island, 3.4% (CI 95%, 1.1-7.8%); at the ZEALANDIA-Karori sanctuary, 1.6% (95% CI, 0-8.4%); and on Matiu-Somes Island, 0% (CI 95%, 0-12.3%). Seroprevalence for BFDV, indicating prior or current exposure, in the Tiritiri Matangi Island population, it was 2% (CI 95%, 0-10.1%), and in the Hauturu-o-Toi/LBI population was 14% (CI 95%, 5.3-27.9%). BFDV-positive birds showed no signs of clinical disease, with the exception of an individual bird obtained opportunistically from Shakespear Regional Park during the study period, which had classical signs of feather loss. Phylogenetic analysis of the 11 full genome sequences recovered from BFDV-positive red-crowned parakeets revealed evidence of ongoing viral flow between red-crowned parakeets and eastern rosellas (Platycercus eximius) in the Hauraki Gulf/Auckland region, with separate but closely related strains from the Wellington region of the North Island. This is the first study to report HI results for a New Zealand endemic parrot species, and the first epidemiological analysis of serial cross-sectional surveys in a BFDV-infected population of red-crowned parakeets in New Zealand. We postulate that although BFDV remains a threat to small, isolated or naïve populations of parrots globally, the low viral prevalence in this and other studies suggests that native parakeets in New Zealand may act as dead-end or spillover hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Jackson
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia,
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Yewers MS, McLean C, Moussalli A, Stuart-Fox D, Bennett AT, Knott B. Spectral sensitivity of cone photoreceptors and opsin expression in two colour-divergent lineages of the lizard Ctenophorus decresii. J Exp Biol 2015; 218:1556-63. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.119404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Intraspecific differences in sensory perception are rarely reported but may occur when a species range extends across varying sensory environments, or there is coevolution between the sensory system and a varying signal. Examples in colour vision and colour signals are rare in terrestrial systems. The tawny dragon lizard Ctenophorus decresii is a promising candidate for such intraspecific variation, because the species comprises two geographically and genetically distinct lineages in which throat colour (a social signal used in intra- and inter-specific interactions) is locally adapted to the habitat and differs between lineages. Male lizards from the southern lineage have UV-blue throats, whereas males from the northern lineage are polymorphic with four discrete throat colours that all show minimal UV reflectance. Here we determine the cone photoreceptor spectral sensitivities and opsin expression of the two lineages, to test whether they differ, particularly in the UV wavelengths. Using microspectrophotometry on retinal cone photoreceptors, we identified a long wavelength sensitive visual pigment, a ‘short’ and ‘long’ medium wavelength sensitive pigment and a short wavelength sensitive pigment, all of which did not differ in λmax between lineages. Through transcriptome analysis of opsin genes we found that both lineages express four cone opsin genes, including that SWS1 opsin with peak sensitivity in the UV range, and that amino acid sequences did not differ between lineages with the exception of a single leucine/valine substitution in the RH2 opsin. Counts of yellow and transparent oil droplets associated with LWS+MWS and SWS+UVS cones respectively showed no difference in relative cone proportions between lineages. Therefore, contrary to predictions, we find no evidence of differences between lineages in single cone photoreceptor spectral sensitivity or opsin expression; however, we confirm the presence of four single cones classes and thus likely tetrachromacy in C. decresii, and provide the first evidence of UV sensitivity in agamid lizards.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claire McLean
- The School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010 Australia
- Sciences Department, Museum Victoria, Carlton Gardens 3053, Australia
| | - Adnan Moussalli
- Sciences Department, Museum Victoria, Carlton Gardens 3053, Australia
| | - Devi Stuart-Fox
- The School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Andrew T.D. Bennett
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - Ben Knott
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
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Eastwood JR, Berg ML, Spolding B, Buchanan KL, Bennett ATD, Walder K. Prevalence of beak and feather disease virus in wild Platycercus elegans: comparison of three tissue types using a probe-based real-time qPCR test. AUST J ZOOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1071/zo14052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The detection of avian viruses in wild populations has considerable conservation implications. For DNA-based studies, feathers may be a convenient sample type for virus screening and are, therefore, an increasingly common technique. This is despite recent concerns about DNA quality, ethics, and a paucity of data comparing the reliability and sensitivity of feather sampling to other common sample types such as blood. Alternatively, skeletal muscle tissue may offer a convenient sample to collect from dead birds, which may reveal viraemia. Here, we describe a probe-based quantitative real-time PCR for the relative quantification of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), a pathogen of serious conservation concern for parrots globally. We used this method to test for BFDV in wild crimson rosellas (Platycercus elegans), and compared three different sample types. We detected BFDV in samples from 29 out of 84 individuals (34.5%). However, feather samples provided discordant results concerning virus presence when compared with muscle tissue and blood, and estimates of viral load varied somewhat between different sample types. This study provides evidence for widespread infection of BFDV in wild crimson rosellas, but highlights the importance of sample type when generating and interpreting qualitative and quantitative avian virus data.
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