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Austen JM, Brice B, Liu D, Gao H, Berto BP, Zahedi A, Elloit A, Yang R. Morphological and molecular characterization of Eimeria haematopusi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in an Australian Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (Aves: Charadriiformes). Syst Parasitol 2024; 101:40. [PMID: 38739253 PMCID: PMC11090946 DOI: 10.1007/s11230-024-10152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
A novel Eimeria Schneider, 1875 species is described from an Australian pied oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris Vieillot, in Western Australia. The pied oystercatcher was admitted to the Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (KWRC), Perth, Western Australia in a poor body condition, abrasion to its right hock and signs of partial delamination to its lower beak. Investigation into potential medical causes resulted in a faecal sample being collected and screened for gastrointestinal parasites. Unsporulated coccidian oocysts were initially observed in the faeces and identified as Eimeria upon sporulation. The sporulated oocysts (n = 20) are ellipsoidal, 20-21 × 12-13 μm in shape and have thick bi-layered walls which are c.2/3 of the total thickness. Micropyle is present, robust and protruding, and occasionally has a rounded polar body attached to the micropyle. Within the oocyst, a residuum, in addition, two to five polar granules are present. There are four ellipsoidal sporocysts 9-11 × 5-6 μm with flattened to half-moon shaped Stieda bodies. Sub-Stieda body and para-Stieda body are absent. The sporocysts contain sporocyst residuums composed of a few spherules scattered among the sporozoites. Within the sporozoites, anterior and posterior refractile bodies are present, but the nucleus is indiscernible. To further characterise the novel Eimeria species from H. longirostris, molecular analysis was conducted at the 18S ribosomal RNA locus, using PCR amplification and cloning. Two cloned sequences from the novel Eimeria were compared with those from other Eimeria spp. with the highest genetic similarity of 97.6% and 97.2% from Clone 1 and 2, respectively with Eimeria reichenowi (AB544308) from a hooded crane (Grus monacha Temminck) in Japan. Both sequences grouped in a clade with the Eimeria spp. isolated from wetland birds, which include Eimeria paludosa (KJ767187) from a dusky moorhen (Gallinula tenebrosa Gould) in Western Australia, Eimeria reichenowi (AB544308) and Eimeria gruis (AB544336) both from hooded cranes. Based on the morphological and molecular data, this Eimeria sp. is a new species of coccidian parasite and is named Eimeria haematopusi n. sp. after its host H. longirostris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill M Austen
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Belinda Brice
- Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, 120 Gilchrist Road, Lesmurdie, WA, 6076, Australia
| | - Dandan Liu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Centre for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Huimin Gao
- Institute of Cash Crops, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Shijiazhuang, 05005, People's Republic of China
| | - Bruno P Berto
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, BR-465 km 7, Seropédica, RJ, 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Alireza Zahedi
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Aileen Elloit
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Rongchang Yang
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
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Mota SM, Girling SJ, Cole G, Brown D, Johnson G, Naylor AD. APPLICATION OF A NOVEL ASPERGILLUS LATERAL-FLOW DEVICE IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF ASPERGILLOSIS IN CAPTIVE GENTOO PENGUINS ( PYGOSCELIS PAPUA PAPUA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:360-366. [PMID: 37428700 DOI: 10.1638/2021-0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis is the primary fungal disease affecting captive penguins globally. Its diagnosis remains challenging, and currently no tests are both sensitive and specific for the detection of early infection. The present study evaluated a recently developed Aspergillus lateral-flow device (AspLFD) for the detection of Aspergillus spp. antigen in plasma and glottis mucus from captive penguins. In a pilot retrospective study, banked frozen plasma samples from captive penguins were reviewed: samples from 11 gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua papua) and 4 king penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were used in the analysis. Positive plasma AspLFD test results were found in 80% (four of five) of the aspergillosis-positive cases tested. All of the aspergillosis-negative cases tested negative (10 of 10) on the AspLFD test. In a cohort prospective study, paired plasma and glottis swab samples were opportunistically and nonrandomly collected from captive gentoo penguins. In total, 26 penguins were tested. In the negative control group, AspLFD test was negative on plasma and swab in 100% of birds (14 of 14). In the aspergillosis-positive group, AspLFD test was positive on plasma samples from 33% (4 of 12) of birds, on swab samples from 50% (6 of 12) of birds, and on either plasma or swab samples from 75% (9 of 12) of birds. The AspLFD is currently used for the diagnosis of aspergillosis in humans and also shows promise for use in penguins. Larger prospective studies are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie M Mota
- Veterinary Department, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom,
| | - Simon J Girling
- Veterinary Department, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina Cole
- Veterinary Department, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom
| | - Donna Brown
- Veterinary Department, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Johnson
- OLM Diagnostics, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5TF, United Kingdom
| | - Adam D Naylor
- Veterinary Department, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom
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Itoh M, Matsumoto N, Hagino K, Sawayama N, Kuwayama M, Yamada K, Toyotome T. Nationwide Survey about the Occurrence of Aspergillosis in Captive Penguins in Zoos and Aquariums in Japan. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1913. [PMID: 37370423 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We surveyed the facilities that were members of the Japan Association of Zoos and Aquariums to clarify the incidence of aspergillosis, which is a major cause of death in captive penguins, and to discern effective preventive measures. Responses were obtained for 2910 penguins in 64 facilities; 73 penguins (2.5%) in 35 facilities had died from aspergillosis during the past 5 years from April 2016 to March 2021. Answers to questions about the rearing environment indicated that aspergillosis occurred significantly more often in facilities where penguins were reared outdoors, were in contact with soil, or were moved outside of the rearing enclosure. Answers to questions about their dead penguins indicated that 76% may have been at individual risk (e.g., young age, old age, molting period, and breeding season) and 54% were thought to be reared in uncomfortable environments (e.g., high temperature, high humidity). Aspergillosis may occur when individual risk factors and uncomfortable environmental factors are added to the risk factors of exposure to Aspergillus, such as the presence of soil. These conditions must be recognized as risk factors for aspergillosis, and appropriate preventive measures, such as avoiding penguin contact with the soil where Aspergillus is expected to be present, can minimize aspergillosis-related deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Itoh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Naoya Matsumoto
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, Noboribetsu 059-0492, Hokkaido, Japan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara 252-5201, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kyogo Hagino
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, Noboribetsu 059-0492, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Nanako Sawayama
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, Noboribetsu 059-0492, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Miki Kuwayama
- Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe, Noboribetsu 059-0492, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Yamada
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara 252-5201, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takahito Toyotome
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
- Diagnostic Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8673, Chiba, Japan
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PREVALENCE AND PATHOGEN LOAD OF EIMERIA IN WILD YELLOW-EYED PENGUINS (MEGADYPTES ANTIPODES) AND THE MORPHOLOGIC CHARACTERIZATION OF A NOVEL EIMERIA SPECIES. J Wildl Dis 2022; 58:836-846. [PMID: 36136602 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-21-00146] [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: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Coccidia infections in wild birds rarely cause clinical signs; however, disease and mortality can occur with predisposing environmental and host conditions. The Yellow-eyed Penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) is an endangered species endemic to New Zealand that has seen significant ongoing population decline. The aim of this study was to examine the host-pathogen dynamics of coccidian parasites in two wild populations of Yellow-eyed Penguin: the mainland (South Island) population and the sub-Antarctic (Enderby Island) population. There was weak evidence for a difference in the prevalence of the Eimeria sp. in birds from Enderby Island (76.6%; 36/47; 95% confidence interval [CI] 62.78-86.4%) and the South Island of New Zealand (58.54%; 24/41; 95% CI 43.37-72.24%). The mean pathogen load in penguins on Enderby Island was 9,723 oocysts/g of feces (SE=5831 oocysts/g) and from the South Island of New Zealand was 1,050 oocysts/g (SE=398 oocysts/g). No evidence of an association was found between pathogen load and body weight in either study population. The morphology of the sporulated coccidial oocysts was consistent with a novel species of Eimeria. There was statistically significant variation between the oocysts collected from the two sites in all measurements apart from the oocyst wall thickness. However, the standard technique of assessing linear regressions of the length and width of oocysts from both sampling sites was 0.80, and therefore above the standard R2>0.5 used to indicate variation within a single population of oocysts, suggesting that only a single species of Eimeria was present at both sampling locations. The prevalence and pathogen load of Eimeria sp. was substantially higher than previous reports of coccidial oocysts in Yellow-eyed Penguins and free-living Sphenisciformes globally. This host-parasite relationship deserves further investigation, as the impact of this novel organism on the population remains unclear.
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Fiddaman SR, Vinkler M, Spiro SG, Levy H, Emerling CA, Boyd AC, Dimopoulos EA, Vianna JA, Cole TL, Pan H, Fang M, Zhang G, Hart T, Frantz LAF, Smith AL. Adaptation and cryptic pseudogenization in penguin Toll-like Receptors. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 39:6460345. [PMID: 34897511 PMCID: PMC8788240 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Penguins (Sphenisciformes) are an iconic order of flightless, diving seabirds distributed across a large latitudinal range in the Southern Hemisphere. The extensive area over which penguins are endemic is likely to have fostered variation in pathogen pressure, which in turn will have imposed differential selective pressures on the penguin immune system. At the front line of pathogen detection and response, the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) provide insight into host evolution in the face of microbial challenge. TLRs respond to conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns and are frequently found to be under positive selection, despite retaining specificity for defined agonist classes. We undertook a comparative immunogenetics analysis of TLRs for all penguin species and found evidence of adaptive evolution that was largely restricted to the cell surface-expressed TLRs, with evidence of positive selection at, or near, key agonist-binding sites in TLR1B, TLR4, and TLR5. Intriguingly, TLR15, which is activated by fungal products, appeared to have been pseudogenized multiple times in the Eudyptes spp., but a full-length form was present as a rare haplotype at the population level. However, in vitro analysis revealed that even the full-length form of Eudyptes TLR15 was nonfunctional, indicating an ancestral cryptic pseudogenization prior to its eventual disruption multiple times in the Eudyptes lineage. This unusual pseudogenization event could provide an insight into immune adaptation to fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus, which is responsible for significant mortality in wild and captive bird populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven R Fiddaman
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Michal Vinkler
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Simon G Spiro
- Wildlife Health Services, Zoological Society of London Regent's Park, London, UK
| | - Hila Levy
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | | | - Amy C Boyd
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Evangelos A Dimopoulos
- The Palaeogenomics and Bio-Archaeology Research Network, Research Laboratory for Archaeology and History of Art, University of Oxford Oxford, UK
| | - Juliana A Vianna
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Departamento de Ecosistemas y Medio Ambiente Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Macul, Santiago, Chile
| | - Theresa L Cole
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen DK2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hailin Pan
- BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Yantian District Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Miaoquan Fang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Yantian District Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Guojie Zhang
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen DK2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Yantian District Shenzhen 518083, China.,State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Tom Hart
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Laurent A F Frantz
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Fogg Building, Queen Mary University of London Mile End Rd, Bethnal Green, London E1 4DQ, UK.,Institute of Palaeoanatomy, Domestication Research and the History of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany
| | - Adrian L Smith
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
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Aspergillosis in Wild Birds. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7030241. [PMID: 33807065 PMCID: PMC8004873 DOI: 10.3390/jof7030241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitous fungi belonging to the genus Aspergillus are able to proliferate in a large number of environments on organic substrates. The spores of these opportunistic pathogens, when inhaled, can cause serious and often fatal infections in a wide variety of captive and free-roaming wild birds. The relative importance of innate immunity and the level of exposure in the development of the disease can vary considerably between avian species and epidemiological situations. Given the low efficacy of therapeutic treatments, it is essential that breeders or avian practitioners know the conditions that favor the emergence of Aspergillosis in order to put adequate preventive measures in place.
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Ewbank AC, Duarte-Benvenuto A, Zamana-Ramblas R, Navas-Suárez PE, Gattamorta MA, Dos Santos-Costa PC, Catão-Dias JL, Sacristán C. Case report of respiratory aspergillosis and candidiasis in wild Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus), Brazil. Braz J Microbiol 2021; 52:967-975. [PMID: 33566323 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-021-00438-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) migrate to the continental shelf of southern-southeastern Brazil during austral winter. Stranded penguins are directed to rehabilitation centers, where they occasionally develop fungal diseases. Aspergillosis, a mycosis caused by Aspergillus spp., is one of the most important diseases of captive penguins, while Candida sp. has been detected in penguins undergoing rehabilitation. Nevertheless, their occurrence in the wild is poorly understood. This study surveyed the occurrence of mycoses in free-ranging Magellanic penguins wintering in southeastern Brazil. These penguins were either found dead or stranded alive and died during transport to a rehabilitation center. Overall, 61 fresh to moderate autolyzed carcasses were necropsied. Upon necropsy, three juvenile males (4.9%) presented mycotic-consistent gross lesions. Histopathology and panfungal PCRs confirmed the mycoses. Major microscopic findings were marked chronic necrotizing multifocal to coalescent pneumonia, airsacculitis, and esophageal/gastric serositis with two types of intralesional fungal structures: (a) septated acute-angled branching hyphae (n = 2) and (b) yeast structures (n = 1), both PAS- and Grocott-positive. Sequences identical to Aspergillus sp. were retrieved in two cases, while the third had sequences identical to Candida palmioleophila. This study describes two cases of aspergillosis and one of candidiasis in free-ranging Magellanic penguins, confirming the species' susceptibility in the wild. These mycoses could be associated with the animals' poor body condition, and/or impaired immunity, and natural and anthropogenic challenges related to migration. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of aspergillosis in free-ranging Magellanic penguins in the Atlantic Ocean and of candidiasis in penguins worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Ewbank
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil.
| | - Aricia Duarte-Benvenuto
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisas de Cananéia, Cananéia, São Paulo State, 11990-000, Brazil
| | - Roberta Zamana-Ramblas
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Pedro Enrique Navas-Suárez
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Marco Aurélio Gattamorta
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Priscilla Carla Dos Santos-Costa
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisas de Cananéia, Cananéia, São Paulo State, 11990-000, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Carlos Sacristán
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo State, 05508-270, Brazil
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Bennett J, McPherson O, Presswell B. Gastrointestinal helminths of little blue penguins, Eudyptula novaehollandiae (Stephens), from Otago, New Zealand. Parasitol Int 2020; 80:102185. [PMID: 32919082 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Data regarding helminth communities can provide insights into health, feeding interactions, behaviour and evolution of their host organisms. Penguins (Spheniscidae) are important components of marine food webs and tracking their helminth communities can be indicative of ecosystem health. New Zealand is home to 5 of the world's 19 penguin species and little is known about their gastrointestinal helminths. Here, we provide the first study on the gastrointestinal helminths of little blue penguins from south-eastern South Island, New Zealand. The helminth community consisted of two species of tapeworm; Tetrabothrius lutzi and Tetrabothrius sp.; three nematode species, Contracaecum eudyptulae, Capillaria sp. and Stegophorus macronectes; two acanthocephalans, Andracantha sigma and Bolbosoma balaenae; and one trematode, Galactosomum otepotiense. The most prevalent parasites were T. lutzi, A. sigma, and C. eudyptulae. This work includes three new host records and five new geographic records. This is the first report of B. balaenae occurring in a host other than a marine mammal. This study adds to our knowledge about the helminth community of New Zealand little blue penguins, and includes new genetic data on helminth species, providing a baseline against which future studies may be compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerusha Bennett
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | - Olivia McPherson
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Bronwen Presswell
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand
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9
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Ewbank AC, Sacristán C, Costa-Silva S, Antonelli M, Lorenço JR, Nogueira GA, Ebert MB, Kolesnikovas CKM, Catão-Dias JL. Postmortem findings in Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) caught in a drift gillnet. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:153. [PMID: 32448250 PMCID: PMC7245875 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02363-x] [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: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Penguin interaction with gillnets has been extensively reported in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and is considered a major conservation threat. Among penguin species, Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) are currently considered of great concern, particularly in Brazil, where they are highly susceptible to gillnet bycatch. Nevertheless, information about drowning-associated microscopic findings in penguins is limited. RESULTS We describe the anatomopathological findings of 20 Magellanic penguins that drowned after getting entangled in a drift gillnet while wintering along the Brazilian shelf and washed ashore still enmeshed in Santa Catarina, Brazil. All 20 birds (19 juveniles and 1 adult; 18 females and 2 males) were in good body condition. Major gross findings were abrasion, bruising, and local erythema and edema of the wings, multiorgan congestion, jugular vein engorgement, pulmonary edema and hemorrhage, splenomegaly and hepatomegaly, fluid in the trachea, serous bloody fluid in the lungs, gastrointestinal parasites (nematodes, cestodes and trematodes), and debris in the stomach. The most common histopathological findings were cerebral and pulmonary congestion, pulmonary edema, splenic histiocytosis, lymphoid splenic hyperplasia, acute splenitis, extramedullary hepatic hematopoiesis, and parasitic enteritis. Although unspecific, the observed multiorgan congestion and pulmonary edema are consistent with previous reports of drowning in birds and may be indicative of this process. CONCLUSIONS Drowning may be a challenging diagnosis (e.g., carcass decomposition, predation), but must be considered as a differential in all beach-cast seabird postmortem examinations. To the authors' knowledge this is the largest anatomopathological study based on microscopic examination in drowned penguins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Ewbank
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-270, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Sacristán
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-270, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Mariana B Ebert
- Laboratory of Wildlife Parasitology (LAPAS), Parasitology Department, Biosciences Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, 18618-000, Brazil
| | | | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-270, Brazil
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10
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Tuxbury KA, Innis CJ, Thaiwong T, Wise AG, Maes R, Garner MM, Kiupel M. Herpesvirus Encephalitis in a Little Blue Penguin ( Eudyptula minor). Vet Pathol 2020; 57:582-585. [PMID: 32436778 DOI: 10.1177/0300985820926678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
An 11-day-old little blue penguin (Eudyptula minor) died unexpectedly. Prior to hatching, the egg experienced trauma and resultant defects were repaired. The chick hatched without complication and was clinically normal prior to death. Necropsy revealed congested lungs. Histologic examination showed moderate nonsuppurative encephalitis with focally extensive neuronal necrosis and intranuclear inclusions in neurons within necrotic foci. Herpesvirus DNA was detected in brain tissue with a generic herpesvirus polymerase chain reaction. Sanger sequencing demonstrated 100% and 98% sequence homology to sphenicid alphaherpesvirus 1 and penguin herpesvirus 2, respectively. In situ hybridization demonstrated large amounts of herpesvirus nucleic acid in intranuclear inclusions and neuronal nuclei. Combined histology, polymerase chain reaction, Sanger sequencing, and in situ hybridization results were most consistent with herpesviral encephalitis, most likely caused by sphenicid alphaherpesvirus 1. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a herpesvirus infection causing encephalitis in a penguin and the first report of herpesvirus in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles J Innis
- New England Aquarium, Animal Health Department, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tuddow Thaiwong
- Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Annabel G Wise
- Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Roger Maes
- Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | - Matti Kiupel
- Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Parasite diversity associated with African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) and the effect of host and environmental factors. Parasitology 2019; 146:791-804. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018002159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) is a critically endangered species endemic to southern Africa. Limited information is available on the parasite diversity associated with the species in natural settings. This study explores the diversity and incidence of parasites associated with African penguins and their nests, and records the effect of host and environmental factors on parasite infestation. Ecto-, haemo- and helminth parasites were recorded from 210 adult birds, 583 chicks and 628 nests across five colonies (two mainland and three islands) along the south-western coast of South Africa, in 2016 and 2017. Mean nest density (total and active nests) and climate variables (temperature and precipitation) were obtained for each colony. Parapsyllus humboldti was the most abundant and prevalent ectoparasite on penguins and in nests (69.10 and 57.80%, respectively), while Piroplasmorida/Haemospororida (33.51%) and Cardiocephaloides spp. (56.17%) were the most prevalent haemo- and helminth parasites of penguins, respectively. In general parasite abundance and prevalence was significantly affected by penguin age (chicks vs adults), location (mainland vs islands), nest density (total and active nests) and season (spring vs autumn/winter). It is concluded that parasite infestations are structured and that penguin chicks at mainland colonies are more susceptible to parasite infestations during spring.
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Naylor AD, Girling SJ, Brown D, Crompton CG, Pizzi R. Plasma protein electrophoresis as a prognostic indicator in Aspergillus species-infected Gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua papua). Vet Clin Pathol 2017; 46:605-614. [PMID: 28692132 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avian aspergillosis presents a significant threat to captive penguin populations. Currently, a lack of objective prognostic factors limits disease staging, objective reassessment throughout treatment, comparative evaluation of treatment regimes, and appropriate timing of euthanasia. OBJECTIVE The study objective was to investigate absolute and relative plasma protein fractions by agarose gel electrophoresis (EPH) as predictors of survival in Gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua papua) under treatment for aspergillosis. METHODS One hundred and eighty-three EPH profiles from individual clinical cases were examined retrospectively. Animal survival to 90 days post sampling was established from clinical records; birds either survived (n = 146) or died within 90 days (n = 37), and time to death was recorded. RESULTS Fourteen variables showed statistically significant differences (P < .05) between surviving and dying birds. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified total albumin concentration (albumin + prealbumin) and albumin-to-globulin (A:G) ratio as having strongest discriminatory values (95% CI) at 0.788 (0.710-0.866) and 0.784 (0.696-0.871), respectively. Albumin (concentration and percentage of total protein) displayed moderate discriminatory value but additionally a weak positive correlation with time to death (95% CI); r = .353 (0.033-0.608) and .424 (0.116-0.658), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Optimized test cutoffs for total albumins, albumin (concentration and percentage of total protein), and A:G ratio achieved moderate sensitivity and specificity, strong negative predictive values, but weak positive predictive values due to a low prevalence of death. Selection of appropriate test cutoff values may provide valuable adjunctive prognostic tools for clinical decision-making when the prognosis is difficult to assess clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Donna Brown
- Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Romain Pizzi
- Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
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Tomás A, Rebelo MT, da Fonseca IP. Occurrence of helminth parasites in the gastrointestinal tract of wild birds from Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Centre of Ria Formosa in southern Portugal. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2016; 8:13-20. [PMID: 31014630 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out in southern Portugal to determine the prevalence of parasitic helminths infecting wild birds. Between September and December of 2013, adult parasites were collected from the gastrointestinal tract of 22 bird specimens (belonging to 12 species) that died in Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Centre of the Ria Formosa. Identified gastrointestinal parasites include the nematodes (Contracaecum sp., Cosmocephalus obvelatus, Desportesius invaginatus, Dispharynx nasuta, Porrocaecum angusticolle and Synhimantus laticeps) and cestodes (Diplophallus sp., Neyraia intricata and Tetrabothrius sp.). The overall level of infection was 54.5% (12/22) and the most frequent helminths present were nematodes (40.9% - 9/22), followed by cestodes (13.6% - 3/22). Helminthic richness was similar in all birds (one species or genera per bird) and the helminth species, except Dispharynx nasuta, exhibited a clear relationship with host diet. Five helminth species (Cosmocephalus obvelatus, Desportesius invaginatus, Dispharynx nasuta, Porrocaecum angusticolle and Neyraia intricata) and two genera (Contracaecum sp. and Diplophallus sp.) were reported for the first time in Portugal and the presence of P. angusticolle in Bonelli's eagle was recorded for the first time across all researched literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Tomás
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies/Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Maria Teresa Rebelo
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies/Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences of University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Isabel Pereira da Fonseca
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Research on Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal.
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Jerdy H, Baldassin P, Werneck MR, Bianchi M, Ribeiro RB, Carvalho ECQ. First Report of Kidney Lesions Due toRenicolasp. (Digenea: Trematoda) in Free-Living Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicusForster, 1781) Found on the Coast of Brazil. J Parasitol 2016; 102:650-652. [DOI: 10.1645/16-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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15
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Parsons NJ, Gous TA, van Wilpe E, Strauss V, Vanstreels RE. Herpesvirus-like respiratory infection in African penguins Spheniscus demersus admitted to a rehabilitation centre. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2015; 116:149-155. [PMID: 26480918 DOI: 10.3354/dao02907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Rehabilitation is an important strategy for the conservation of the Endangered African penguin Spheniscus demersus, and disease has been raised as a concern in the management of the species, both in the wild and in rehabilitation centres. We report 8 cases of herpesvirus-like respiratory infection in African penguin chicks undergoing rehabilitation between 2010 and 2013 at a facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Infection was confirmed through the identification of viral inclusions in the tracheal epithelium and demonstration of particles consistent with herpesvirus by electron microscopy, whereas virus isolation in eggs, serology and PCR testing failed to detect the virus. Only penguin chicks were affected; they were in poor body condition, and in 2 cases infection occurred prior to admission to the rehabilitation centre. The role played by the herpesvirus-like infection in the overall respiratory disease syndrome is uncertain, due to identification of lesions in only a small proportion of the chicks as well as to the occurrence of other concurrent pathological processes. Further studies are advised to characterise the specific virus involved through the development of sensitive diagnostic methods and to clarify the epidemiology and significance of these infections in wild African penguins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nola J Parsons
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), PO Box 11116, Bloubergrant, Cape Town, 7443, South Africa
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Vanstreels RET, Woehler EJ, Ruoppolo V, Vertigan P, Carlile N, Priddel D, Finger A, Dann P, Herrin KV, Thompson P, Ferreira Junior FC, Braga ÉM, Hurtado R, Epiphanio S, Catão-Dias JL. Epidemiology and molecular phylogeny of Babesia sp. in Little Penguins Eudyptula minor in Australia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-PARASITES AND WILDLIFE 2015; 4:198-205. [PMID: 25853053 PMCID: PMC4383760 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We examined blood smears from 263 wild little penguins in southeastern Australia. Babesia sp. was detected in penguins in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. True prevalence is estimated between 3.4% and 4.5%. Babesia sp. from little penguins is closely related to B. poelea and B. uriae. Babesia infections were assymptomatic.
Blood parasites are potential threats to the health of penguins and to their conservation and management. Little penguins Eudyptula minor are native to Australia and New Zealand, and are susceptible to piroplasmids (Babesia), hemosporidians (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium) and kinetoplastids (Trypanosoma). We studied a total of 263 wild little penguins at 20 sites along the Australian southeastern coast, in addition to 16 captive-bred little penguins. Babesia sp. was identified in seven wild little penguins, with positive individuals recorded in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. True prevalence was estimated between 3.4% and 4.5%. Only round forms of the parasite were observed, and gene sequencing confirmed the identity of the parasite and demonstrated it is closely related to Babesia poelea from boobies (Sula spp.) and B. uriae from murres (Uria aalge). None of the Babesia-positive penguins presented signs of disease, confirming earlier suggestions that chronic infections by these parasites are not substantially problematic to otherwise healthy little penguins. We searched also for kinetoplastids, and despite targeted sampling of little penguins near the location where Trypanosoma eudyptulae was originally reported, this parasite was not detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology (LAPCOM), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eric J Woehler
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Valeria Ruoppolo
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology (LAPCOM), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil ; International Fund for Animal Welfare, USA
| | | | | | - David Priddel
- New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, Australia
| | - Annett Finger
- Ecology and Environmental Management Group, College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Australia
| | - Peter Dann
- Research Department, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia
| | | | - Paul Thompson
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, Australia
| | | | - Érika M Braga
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Renata Hurtado
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Epiphanio
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Catão-Dias
- Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology (LAPCOM), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
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Nevitt BN, Langan JN, Adkesson MJ, Mitchell MA, Henzler M, Drees R. Comparison of air sac volume, lung volume, and lung densities determined by use of computed tomography in conscious and anesthetized Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) positioned in ventral, dorsal, and right lateral recumbency. Am J Vet Res 2014; 75:739-45. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.75.8.739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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The pathology and pathogenicity of a novel Haemoproteus spp. infection in wild Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor). Vet Parasitol 2013; 197:74-84. [PMID: 23683654 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
One hundred and thirty four Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor) carcases found since 2004 in south west Australia were necropsied. The livers and spleens from ten of the penguins exhibited varying degrees of multifocal, randomly scattered areas of necrosis and varying numbers of parasites were associated with these areas. Hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were noted in many of these ten cases. Necrosis and parasites were also observed in the cardiac muscle of four of the cases and in the lung tissue in one of the penguins. Using PCR, the parasites were positively identified in four of the cases as Haemoproteus spp. and morphologically identical tissue stage parasites associated with histopathological changes were observed in all ten dead penguins. This is the first study to demonstrate both the in situ presence of the Haemoproteus parasite in any member of the Sphensicidae family and mortality due to its presence. We postulate the involvement of anomalous environmental conditions in a potential increase in local vectors.
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Morgan KJ, Alley MR, Pomroy WE, Gartrell BD, Castro I, Howe L. Extra-intestinal coccidiosis in the kiwi (Apteryx spp.). Avian Pathol 2013; 42:137-46. [PMID: 23581440 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2013.776665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant conservation intervention, the kiwi (Apteryx spp.) is in serious population decline. To increase survival in the wild, conservation management includes rearing of young birds in captivity, safe from introduced mammalian predators. However, an increase in density of immunologically naïve kiwi increases the risk of exposure to disease, including coccidia. Intestinal coccidiosis has recently been described in the kiwi, and although extra-intestinal coccidiosis was first recognized in kiwi in 1978, very little is known about this disease entity. This study used archived histological tissues and reports from routine necropsies to describe the pathology of naturally occurring extra-intestinal coccidiosis. At least 4.5% of all kiwi necropsied during 1991 to 2011 (n=558) were affected by extra-intestinal coccidiosis, and it is estimated that it caused death in 0.9 to 1.2% of kiwi in the study group. Four forms were recognized: renal, hepatic, and, less commonly, splenic and pulmonary. At necropsy, renal coccidiosis was associated with miliary white streaks and foci through the kidneys, renomegaly, and renal pallor or congestion. Renal meronts and gametocytes were confined to the distal convoluted tubules and collecting ducts, and were associated with renal tubular necrosis and tubular obstruction. Hepatic miliary pinpoint foci were present throughout the hepatic parenchyma associated microscopically with macromeronts measuring 304×227 µm. In two cases, clusters of splenic meronts were identified, and a similar lesion was identified in the pulmonary interstitium of another case. Juvenile, captive kiwi were most often affected with extra-intestinal coccidiosis, illustrating an increased expression of disease with population manipulation for conservation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerri J Morgan
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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20
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Campos SD, Pereira BBN, Siciliano S, Costa CHC, Almosny NR, Brener B. Contracaecum pelagicum and C. plagiaticium (Nematoda: Anisakidae) infection in Magellanic penguins (Sphenisciformes: Spheniscidae) on the coast of Rio de Janeiro State. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2013000100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of infections and the disease induced by Contracaecum plagiaticium and Contracaecum pelagicum in Magellanic penguins, Spheniscus magellanicus Foster. 1781 (Sphenisciformes: Spheniscidae) were reported on the coast of Rio de Janeiro. Parasites of the genus Contracaecum were present in all of the 11 studied animals. Co-infections by Csontracaecum pelagicum and C. plagiaticium were observed in three hosts (27.27%). Gross lesions included hyperemia of the esophagus and/or stomach in six animals (54.54%). One of these animals (9.09%), parasitized by C. plagiaticium, presented a hemorrhagic area in the gastric mucosa. Histopathological findings demonstrated esophagitis with helminthes segments inserted in the epithelium, showing discrete mixed inflammatory infiltrate of heterophils and mononuclear cells. These parasites may be associated with other diseases, implicating in death of the penguins.
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Fonteneau F, Geiger S, Marion L, Le Maho Y, Robin JP, Kinsella JM. Gastrointestinal helminths of King penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus) at Crozet Archipelago. Polar Biol 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-011-0970-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Alvarez-Perez S, Mateos A, Dominguez L, Martinez-Nevado E, Blanco JL, Garcia ME. Polyclonal Aspergillus fumigatus infection in captive penguins. Vet Microbiol 2010; 144:444-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2010.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Revised: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 02/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Ranum A, Wharton DA. Helminth and protozoan parasites of the alimentary tract of the yellow‐eyed penguin(Megadyptes antipodes). NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY 2010. [DOI: 10.1080/03014223.1996.9518068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Reece RL. Hepatic coccidiosis (Eimeria sp) in a wild magpie-lark (Grallina cyanoleuca). Avian Pathol 2008; 18:357-62. [PMID: 18679867 DOI: 10.1080/03079458908418609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Marked distension of the bile ducts was associated with various stages of a protozoan life-cycle which were identified as schizogony and gametogony. The bile ducts contained oocysts some of which were sporulated and had four sporocysts, each with two sporozoites, thus conforming to the genus Eimeria. This is the first report of a coccidian parasite in the bile duct epithelial cells of birds. It is proposed that this coccidia be named Eimeria grallinida ns.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Reece
- Department of Agricultural and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
Reports on the incidence of renal disease in the avian patient vary,but renal disease is common in poultry and birds of prey. Clinical renal disease is probably under-recognized in the companion bird,with the notable exception of renal tumors in the budgerigar (Melopsittacusundulatus). Diagnosis of renal disease may rely on the identification of consistent clinical signs, clinical pathology, survey radiographs, and laparoscopic evaluation and biopsy of the kidneys. Treatment of avian renal disease relies on supportive care such as fluid therapy and nutritional support. Other treatments vary with the underlying cause and the clinical picture but may include systemic antibiotics, diuretics, parenteral vitamin A, and agents to lower uric acid levels such as allopurinol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christal Pollock
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA.
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Gill JM, Darby JT. Deaths in yellow-eyed penguins (Megadyptes antipodes) on the Otago Peninsula during the summer of 1990. N Z Vet J 2005; 41:39-42. [PMID: 16031693 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.1993.35733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
About 150 rare, adult, yellow-eyed penguins died over a short period during the summer of 1989-1990 on the Otago Peninsula. These were from a total mainland population estimated at 240 breeding pairs. Penguin chicks and non-breeding birds were not affected, but there were indications of shortages in feed supply for birds that bred successfully. Thirteen dead penguins were examined. In ten birds, the cause of death was not established. Although it was commonly found that adult birds had little or no food in their gut, none were considered to have starved to death. No consistent pathological lesions were found, nor were any viruses, Chlamydia or significant bacteria recovered from selected tissues. Toxicology tests ruled out poisoning by copper, zinc, iron, lead, arsenic, selenium, cadmium, mercury, organophosphates, organochlorines, polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene or the toxins of Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium botulinum and dinoflagellates. The problem did not recur during the following summer.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Gill
- Invermay Animal Health Laboratory, Mosgiel, New Zealand
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Yabsley MJ, Gottdenker NL, Fischer JR. Description of a new Eimeria sp. and associated lesions in the kidneys of double-crested cormorants (Phalocrocorax auritus). J Parasitol 2002; 88:1230-3. [PMID: 12537118 DOI: 10.1645/0022-3395(2002)088[1230:doanes]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
A new Eimeria sp. is described as the cause of an outbreak of renal coccidiosis in double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) in Georgia. Sporulated oocysts were spherical to subspherical and measured 16.1 x 16.5 (13.8-18 x 14-19) microm, with an average length-width ratio of 1:1. Oocyst wall was thin (1 microm), greenish, and pitted on the outer surface. Micropyle, micropylar cap, Stieda body, and polar bodies were absent. Small oocyst residuum (4-8 granules) was usually absent but occasionally present. Sporocysts were oval and measured 6.6 x 9.3 (6-7 x 8-10.5) microm, with an average length-width ratio of 1:1.4. A sporocyst residuum was present, located in between sporozoites, and was composed of numerous granules of unequal size. A small refractile body was present in each sporozoite. Collecting duct and distal renal tubular epithelial cells were distended by large oocysts in their cytoplasm, and many oocysts were present in the lumen of dilated tubules. Various stages of meronts, gamonts, and developing oocysts were present in other renal tubular epithelial cells. Multiple infections of parasitized cells were frequently observed, with cells containing up to 12 gamonts or developing oocysts. The importance of this Eimeria sp. on double-crested cormorant populations is not known. But in this case, significant lesions and mortality were associated with infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Yabsley
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study and Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA.
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Hocken AG. Internal organ weights of the blue penguinEudyptula minor. NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY 2000. [DOI: 10.1080/03014223.2000.9518238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hocken AG. Cause of death in blue penguins (Eudyptula m. minor) in North Otago, New Zealand. NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY 2000. [DOI: 10.1080/03014223.2000.9518239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
This review covers the available literature on the mycoses of animals in Australia since the last review published in 1967. Of the cutaneous infections, dermatophytoses have been recorded in a wide range of animals: cattle, horses, goats, pigs, sheep, cats, dogs, mice, guinea-pigs, rabbits, a lion, kangaroos, a camel, koalas and wallabies. These infections were caused by several species and varieties of the genera, Microsporum and Trichophyton. Eight agents of ringworms have been recorded in the horse. Two subcutaneous mycoses, phaeohyphomycosis and sporotrichosis have been reported. Phaeohyphomycosis is becoming more common but sporotrichosis is rare having been recorded only once in a cat. The following systemic mycoses have been recorded: adiaspiromycosis, aspergillosis, candidiasis, cryptococcosis, dactylariosis, fusariomycosis, histoplasmosis, miscellaneous mycoses, mycotic abortion and related conditions, zygomycosis, pythiosis, protothecosis and green algal infections. Cryptococcosis has affected 11 different animal species. Mycotic abortion is a serious disease in Victoria. Pythiosis of horses has been extensively studied in northern Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Connole
- Department of Primary Industries, Animal Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Gajadhar AA, Stockdale PH. Ultrastructural studies of microgametogenesis and macrogametogenesis of Eimeria truncata of the lesser snow goose. THE JOURNAL OF PROTOZOOLOGY 1986; 33:345-51. [PMID: 3746721 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1986.tb05622.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Microgamonts and macrogamonts of Eimeria truncata were observed in renal epithelial cells of collecting tubules and ducts and occasionally in macrophages of experimentally infected lesser snow geese (Anser c. caerulescens) beginning 8.5 days post inoculation. Intraparasitophorous vesicles in parasitophorous vacuoles of both types of gamonts appeared to originate in host cell cytoplasm and enter gamonts through micropores by budding of plasmalemma or by pinocytosis. Within the parasite's cytoplasm, the vesicles were broken down in Golgi-associated vacuoles. The surfaces of microgamonts were highly invaginated to facilitate extrusion of numerous microgametes. Formation and maturation of microgametes were similar to those of other eimerian species. Each microgamete had two flagella, a mitochondrion, and a peculiarly shaped electron-dense nucleus that was oval anteriorly in cross section and somewhat dumbbell-shaped posteriorly. A longitudinally arranged inner membrane complex lay between a portion of the mitochondrion and the plasmalemma. About five subpellicular microtubules extended the length of the microgamete body. Macrogametogony differed little from that described in other eimerian species. Type 1 wall-forming bodies (WFB) formed in Golgi complexes early in macrogametogony, and type 2 WFB formed in cisternae of endoplasmic reticulum in intermediate stages of macrogamont development.
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