Combined Molecular and Elemental Mass Spectrometry Approaches for Absolute Quantification of Proteomes: Application to the Venomics Characterization of the Two Species of Desert Black Cobras, Walterinnesia aegyptia and Walterinnesia morgani

We report a novel hybrid, molecular and elemental mass spectrometry (MS) setup for the absolute quantification of snake venom proteomes shown here for two desert black cobra species within the genus Walterinnesia, Walterinnesia aegyptia and Walterinnesia morgani. The experimental design includes the decomplexation of the venom samples by reverse-phase chromatography independently coupled to four mass spectrometry systems: the combined bottom-up and top-down molecular MS for protein identification and a parallel reverse-phase microbore high-performance liquid chromatograph (RP-μHPLC) on-line to inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS/MS) elemental mass spectrometry and electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-QToF MS). This allows to continuously record the absolute sulfur concentration throughout the chromatogram and assign it to the parent venom proteins separated in the RP-μHPLC-ESI-QToF parallel run via mass profiling. The results provide a locus-resolved and quantitative insight into the three desert black cobra venom proteome samples. They also validate the units of measure of our snake venomics strategy for the relative quantification of snake venom proteomes as % of total venom peptide bonds as a proxy for the % by weight of the venom toxins/toxin families. In a more general context, our work may pave the way for broader applications of hybrid elemental/molecular MS setups in diverse areas of proteomics.

Landscape Connectivity Limits the Predicted Impact of Fungal Pathogen Invasion

Infectious diseases are major drivers of biodiversity loss. The risk of fungal diseases to the survival of threatened animals in nature is determined by a complex interplay between host, pathogen and environment. We here predict the risk of invasion of populations of threatened Mediterranean salamanders of the genus Lyciasalamandra by the pathogenic chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans by combining field sampling and lab trials. In 494 samples across all seven species of Lyciasalamandra, B. salamandrivorans was found to be absent. Single exposure to a low (1000) number of fungal zoospores resulted in fast buildup of lethal infections in three L. helverseni. Thermal preference of the salamanders was well within the thermal envelope of the pathogen and body temperatures never exceeded the fungus' thermal critical maximum, limiting the salamanders' defense opportunities. The relatively low thermal host preference largely invalidates macroclimatic based habitat suitability predictions and, combined with current pathogen absence and high host densities, suggests a high probability of local salamander population declines upon invasion by B. salamandrivorans. However, the unfavorable landscape that shaped intraspecific host genetic diversity, lack of known alternative hosts and rapid host mortality after infection present barriers to further, natural pathogen dispersal between populations and thus species extinction. The risk of anthropogenic spread stresses the importance of biosecurity in amphibian habitats.

Extended Snake Venomics by Top-Down In-Source Decay: Investigating the Newly Discovered Anatolian Meadow Viper Subspecies, Vipera anatolica senliki

Herein, we report on the venom proteome of Vipera anatolica senliki, a recently discovered and hitherto unexplored subspecies of the critically endangered Anatolian meadow viper endemic to the Antalya Province of Turkey. Integrative venomics, including venom gland transcriptomics as well as complementary bottom-up and top-down proteomics analyses, were applied to fully characterize the venom of V. a. senliki. Furthermore, the classical top-down venomics approach was extended to elucidate the venom proteome by an alternative in-source decay (ISD) proteomics workflow using the reducing matrix 1,5-diaminonaphthalene. Top-down ISD proteomics allows for disulfide bond counting and effective de novo sequencing-based identification of high-molecular-weight venom constituents, both of which are difficult to achieve by commonly established top-down approaches. Venom gland transcriptome analysis identified 96 toxin transcript annotations from 18 toxin families. Relative quantitative snake venomics revealed snake venom metalloproteinases (42.9%) as the most abundant protein family, followed by several less dominant toxin families. Online mass profiling and top-down venomics provide a detailed insight into the venom proteome of V. a. senliki and facilitate a comparative analysis of venom variability for the closely related subspecies, Vipera anatolica anatolica.

Phylogeographic analyses point to long-term survival on the spot in micro-endemic Lycian salamanders

Lycian salamanders (genus Lyciasalamandra) constitute an exceptional case of micro-endemism of an amphibian species on the Asian Minor mainland. These viviparous salamanders are confined to karstic limestone formations along the southern Anatolian coast and some islands. We here study the genetic differentiation within and among 118 populations of all seven Lyciasalamandra species across the entire genus’ distribution. Based on circa 900 base pairs of fragments of the mitochondrial 16SrDNA and ATPase genes, we analysed the spatial haplotype distribution as well as the genetic structure and demographic history of populations. We used 253 geo-referenced populations and CHELSA climate data to infer species distribution models which we projected on climatic conditions of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Within all but one species, distinct phyloclades were identified, which only in parts matched current taxonomy. Most haplotypes (78%) were private to single populations. Sometimes population genetic parameters showed contradicting results, although in several cases they indicated recent population expansion of phyloclades. Climatic suitability of localities currently inhabited by salamanders was significantly lower during the LGM compared to recent climate. All data indicated a strong degree of isolation among Lyciasalamandra populations, even within phyloclades. Given the sometimes high degree of haplotype differentiation between adjacent populations, they must have survived periods of deteriorated climates during the Quaternary on the spot. However, the alternative explanation of male biased dispersal combined with a pronounced female philopatry can only be excluded if independent nuclear data confirm this result.

Environmental temperatures shape thermal physiology as well as diversification and genome-wide substitution rates in lizards

Climatic conditions changing over time and space shape the evolution of organisms at multiple levels, including temperate lizards in the family Lacertidae. Here we reconstruct a dated phylogenetic tree of 262 lacertid species based on a supermatrix relying on novel phylogenomic datasets and fossil calibrations. Diversification of lacertids was accompanied by an increasing disparity among occupied bioclimatic niches, especially in the last 10 Ma, during a period of progressive global cooling. Temperate species also underwent a genome-wide slowdown in molecular substitution rates compared to tropical and desert-adapted lacertids. Evaporative water loss and preferred temperature are correlated with bioclimatic parameters, indicating physiological adaptations to climate. Tropical, but also some populations of cool-adapted species experience maximum temperatures close to their preferred temperatures. We hypothesize these species-specific physiological preferences may constitute a handicap to prevail under rapid global warming, and contribute to explaining local lizard extinctions in cool and humid climates.

Investigating the cytotoxic effects of the venom proteome of two species of the Viperidae family (Cerastes cerastes and Cryptelytrops purpureomaculatus) from various habitats

Animal secretions are of great interest in terms of drug development due to their complex protein and peptide composition. Especially, in the field of therapeutic medications such as anti-cancer drugs snake venoms receive attention. In this study, we address two Viperidae species from various habitats with a particular focus on the cytotoxic potential along with the decomplexation of the venom proteome: the horned desert viper (Cerastes cerastes), native to desert regions of North Africa and the mangrove pit viper (Cryptelytrops purpureomaculatus), found in coastal forests of Southeast Asia. Initial cytotoxic screenings of the crude venoms revealed diverse activity, with the highest effect against SHSY5Y human glioblastoma carcinoma cells compared to other cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines. In-depth cytotoxicity studies of SHSY5Y cells with purified venom fractions revealed heterodimeric disintegrins from C. cerastes venom, which exerted a high cytotoxic activity with IC₅₀ values from 0.11 to 0.58 μM and a disintegrin-like effect on SHSY5Y morphology was observed due to cell detachment. Furthermore, two polyproline BPP-related peptides, one PLA₂ and a peptide-rich fraction were determined for C. purpureomaculatus with moderate IC₅₀ values between 3 and 51 μM. Additionally, the decryption of the venom proteomes by snake venomic mass spectrometry and comparison of the same species from different habitats revealed slight differences in the composition.

Intact protein mass spectrometry reveals intraspecies variations in venom composition of a local population of Vipera kaznakovi in Northeastern Turkey

We report on the variable venom composition of a population of the Caucasus viper (Vipera kaznakovi) in Northeastern Turkey. We applied a combination of venom gland transcriptomics, de-complexing bottom-up and top-down venomics. In contrast to sole bottom-up venomics approaches and gel or chromatography based venom comparison, our combined approach enables a faster and more detailed comparison of venom proteomes from multiple individuals. In total, we identified peptides and proteins from 15 toxin families, including snake venom metalloproteinases (svMP; 37.8%), phospholipases A2 (PLA2; 19.0%), snake venom serine proteinases (svSP; 11.5%), C-type lectins (CTL; 6.9%) and cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISP; 5.0%), in addition to several low abundant toxin families. Furthermore, we identified intraspecies variations of the venom composition of V. kaznakovi, and find these were mainly driven by the age of the animals, with lower svSP abundance detected in juveniles. On the proteoform level, several small molecular weight toxins between 5 and 8 kDa in size, as well as PLA2s, drove the differences observed between juvenile and adult individuals. This study provides novel insights into the venom variability of V. kaznakovi and highlights the utility of intact mass profiling for fast and detailed comparison of snake venom. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Population level and ontogenetic venom variation (e.g. diet, habitat, sex or age) can result in a loss of antivenom efficacy against snakebites from wide ranging snake populations. The current state of the art for the analysis of snake venoms are de-complexing bottom-up proteomics approaches. While useful, these have the significant drawback of being time-consuming and following costly protocols, and consequently are often applied to pooled venom samples. To overcome these shortcomings and to enable rapid and detailed profiling of large numbers of individual venom samples, we integrated an intact protein analysis workflow into a transcriptomics-guided bottom-up approach. The application of this workflow to snake individuals of a local population of V. kaznakovi revealed intraspecies variations in venom composition, which are primarily explained by the age of the animals, and highlighted svSP abundance to be one of the molecular drivers for the compositional differences observed.

New data of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Cyprus. 1. Dysderidae found in caves

This paper is the first in a series describing the previously unstudied cave spiders from Cyprus. Two new species, Dysderocrateskibrisensissp. n. and Harpacteakalavachianasp. n., are described. Detailed morphological descriptions and diagnostic characteristics are presented. This is the first report of the genus Dysderocrates Deeleman-Reinhold & Deeleman, 1988 from Cyprus.

Cytotoxicity of Silica Nanoparticles with Transcaucasian Nose-Horned Viper, Vipera ammodytes transcaucasiana, Venom on U87MG and SHSY5Y Neuronal Cancer Cells

Highly bioactive compounds of the snake venom make them particular sources for anticancer agent development. They contain very rich peptide-protein structures. Therefore, they are very susceptible to environmental conditions such as temperature, pH, and light. In this study, Vipera ammodytes transcaucasiana venom was encapsulated in PAMAM-G4 dendrimer by sol-gel method in order to prevent degradation of venom contents from the environmental conditions. For this purpose, nanoparticles were prepared by sol-gel methodology and SEM analyses were performed. U87MG and SHSY5Y neuronal cancer cell lines were treated with different concentrations of venom-containing nanoparticles and cytotoxicity was determined by MTT assay. IC₅₀ values of nanoparticles with snake venom were calculated as 37.24 and 44.64 μg/ml for U87MG and SHSY5Y cells, respectively. The IC₅₀ values of nanoparticles with snake venom were calculated as 10.07 and 7.9 μg/ml for U87MG and SHSY5Y cells, respectively. As a result, nanoparticles with V. a. transcaucasiana venom showed remarkably high cytotoxicity. Encapsulation efficiency of nanoparticles with 1 mg/ml snake venom was determined as %67 via BCA™ protein analysis. In conclusion, this method is found to be convenient and useful for encapsulating snake venom as well as being suitable for drug delivery systems.

Comparative Venomics of the Vipera ammodytes transcaucasiana and Vipera ammodytes montandoni from Turkey Provides Insights into Kinship

The Nose-horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes) is one of the most widespread and venomous snakes in Europe, which causes high frequent snakebite accidents. The first comprehensive venom characterization of the regional endemic Transcaucasian Nose-horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes transcaucasiana) and the Transdanubian Sand Viper (Vipera ammodytes montandoni) is reported employing a combination of intact mass profiling and bottom-up proteomics. The bottom-up analysis of both subspecies identified the major snake protein families of viper venoms. Furthermore, intact mass profiling revealed the presence of two tripeptidic metalloprotease inhibitors and their precursors. While previous reports applied multivariate analysis techniques to clarify the taxonomic status of the subspecies, an accurate classification of Vipera ammodytestranscaucasiana is still part of the ongoing research. The comparative analysis of the viper venoms on the proteome level reveals a close relationship between the Vipera ammodytes subspecies, which could be considered to clarify the classification of the Transcaucasian Nose-horned Viper. However, the slightly different ratio of some venom components could be indicating interspecific variations of the two studied subspecies or intraspecies alternations based on small sample size. Additionally, we performed a bioactivity screening with the crude venoms against several human cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines, which showed interesting results against a human breast adenocarcinoma epithelial cell line. Several fractions of Vipera a. transcaucasiana demonstrated a strong cytotoxic effect on triple negative MDA MB 231 breast cancer cells.

Combined venom profiling and cytotoxicity screening of the Radde's mountain viper (Montivipera raddei) and Mount Bulgar Viper (Montivipera bulgardaghica) with potent cytotoxicity against human A549 lung carcinoma cells

Here we report the first characterization of the endemic Mount Bulgar Viper (Montivipera bulgardaghica) and Radde's mountain viper (Montivipera raddei) venom by a combined approach using intact mass profiling and bottom-up proteomics. The cytotoxicity screening of crude venom as well as isolated serine proteases revealed a high activity against A549 human lung carcinoma cells. By means of intact mass profiling of native and reduced venom we observed basic and acidic phospholipases type A₂. Moreover, the analysis revealed snake venom metalloproteases, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, disintegrins, snake venom serine proteases, C-type lectins, a vascular endothelial growth factor and an L-amino acid oxidase.

A new population and subspecies of the critically endangered Anatolian meadow viper Vipera anatolica Eiselt and Baran, 1970 in eastern Antalya province

We report on a new population of Vipera anatolica from the Geyik Mountain Range in eastern Antalya Province, Turkey. It represents only the second known location, and is situated in a valley about 200 km east from the terra typica at Kohu Dağ in western Antalya Province. We compare both populations and, based on marked differences in morphology, habitat, genetics, and its geographically isolated location, we describe the recently discovered population as a new subspecies. Aspects of ecology, threats, and conservation needs are discussed.

An integrative systematic revision and biogeography of Rhynchocalamus snakes (Reptilia, Colubridae) with a description of a new species from Israel

BACKGROUND

The colubrid snakes of the genus Rhynchocalamus are seldom studied and knowledge of their ecology and life history is scarce. Three species of Rhynchocalamus are currently recognized, R. satunini (from Turkey eastwards to Iran), R. arabicus (Yemen and Oman), and R. melanocephalus (from the Sinai Peninsula northwards to Turkey). All are slender, secretive, mainly nocturnal and rare fossorial snakes. This comprehensive study is the first to sample all known Rhynchocalamus species in order to review the intra-generic phylogenetic relationships and historical biogeography of the genus.

METHODS

We revised the systematics of Rhynchocalamus using an integrative approach and evaluated its phylogeography. The phylogenetic position within the Colubridae and the phylogenetic relationships within the genus were inferred using 29 individuals belonging to the three known species, with additional sampling of two other closely-related genera, Muhtarophis and Lytorhynchus. We analysed three mitochondrial (12S, 16S, cytb) and one nuclear (c-mos) gene fragments. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods; the latter method also used to provide the first time-calibrated molecular phylogeny of the genus. We generated a nuclear network and carried out a topology test and species delimitation analysis. Morphological comparisons were used to differentiate among species and to describe a new species from Israel. The studied material was comprised of 108 alcohol-preserved specimens, 15 photographs, and data from the literature for the examination of 17 mensural, 14 meristic, and two categorical characters.

RESULTS

The molecular results support Rhynchocalamus as monophyletic, and as having split from its sister genus Lytorhynchus during the Late Oligocene. The three recognized species of Rhynchocalamus comprise four independently evolving groups. The molecular results reveal that the genus began to diverge during the Middle Miocene. We revealed that the best-studied species, R. melanocephalus, is paraphyletic. A population, formally ascribed to this species, from the Negev Mountain area in southern Israel is phylogenetically closer to R. arabicus from Oman than to the northern populations of the species from Israel, Syria and Turkey. Herein we describe this population as a new species: Rhynchocalamus dayanaesp. nov.

DISCUSSION

We identify four species within Rhynchocalamus: R. satunini, R. arabicus, R. melanocephalus, and R. dayanaesp. nov., the latter, to the best of our knowledge, is endemic to southern Israel. The onset of Rhynchocalamus diversification is very old and estimated to have occurred during the Middle Miocene, possibly originating in the Levant region. Radiation probably resulted from vicariance and dispersal events caused by continuous geological instability, sea-level fluctuations and climatic changes within the Levant region.

Biological activities of skin and parotoid gland secretions of bufonid toads (Bufo bufo, Bufo verrucosissimus and Bufotes variabilis) from Turkey

Toad glandular secretions and skin extractions contain numerous natural agents which may provide unique resources for novel drug development. Especially the skin-parotoid gland secretions of toads from genus Bufo contain as many as 86 different types of active compounds, each with the potential of becoming a potent drug. In the present study, crude skin-parotoid gland secretions from Bufo bufo, Bufo verrucosissimus and Bufotes variabilis from Turkey were screened against various cancer cells together with normal cells using MTT assay. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of skin secretions were tested on selected bacterial and fungal species for assessing the possible medical applications. Antimicrobial activity of skin secretions was studied by determining minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) in broth dilution method. Hemolytic activity of each skin-secretion was also estimated for evaluating pharmaceutical potential. Both skin-parotoid gland secretions showed high cytotoxic effect on all cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines with IC50 values varying between <0.1μg/ml and 6.02μg/ml. MIC results of antimicrobial activity tests were found to be between 3.9μg/ml and 250μg/ml. No hemolytic activities on rabbit red blood cells at concentrations between 0.5μg/ml and 50μg/ml were observed. In conclusion, skin-parotoid secretions of bufonid toads might be remarkable candidates for anti-cancer and antimicrobial agents without hemolytic activities.

Screening of cytotoxic, anti-angiogenic, anti-tumorogenic and antimicrobial activities of Anatolian Vipera ammodytes (Nose-horned viper) venom

Objective:

In the present study, we aimed to screen the cytotoxic, antimicrobial, anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorogenic activities of Anatolian

Material and methods:

The cytotoxicity was screened against PC3, HeLa, CaCo-2, U-87MG, MCF-7 and Vero cells by using MTT assay. The antimicrobial activity on

Results:

The IC

Conclusion:

The results of the present study contributed to the knowledge of the biological activities of Anatolian

Seven at one blow: the origin of major lineages of the viviparous Lycian salamanders (Lyciasalamandra Veith and Steinfartz, 2004) was triggered by a single paleo-historic event

The number of tectonic and climatic events that are used to explain speciation processes in the eastern Mediterranean region is low compared to the western Mediterranean. Among them, the emergence of the mid-Aegean trench and the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC) often concurred with speciation time estimates that were inferred from molecular data. We here present a dated molecular phylogeny of Lyciasalamandra from Turkey and Greece based on ca. 4500 bp of the mitochondrial genome (3000 bp of three nuclear genes appeared to be completely inconclusive due to their extremely low degree of variation among taxa). Seven major lineages emerged simultaneously from a basal hard polytomy. A scenario that dates this polytomy to 12.3 and 10.2 million years ago, around the final emergence of the mid-Aegean trench, appears to be most plausible. The MSC can be made responsible for first intraspecific divergence events within L. luschani, L. fazilae and L. flavimembris. Further diversification can be explained by Pliocene and Pleistocene glaciations. Based on levels of molecular differentiation we suggest the recently described species L. arikani, L. irfani and L. yehudahi to be treated as subspecies of L. billae.

Phylogeny of the genus Rhynchocalamus (Reptilia; Colubridae) with a first record from the Sultanate of Oman

The genus Rhynchocalamus comprises three species distributed in Southwest Asia. Little is known about them, most probably because of their secretive fossorial lifestyle. The poor knowledge of the genus is even underscored by the fact that its phylogenetic affinities remained unclear until very recently. The least known of the species, Rhynchocalamus arabicus, is known only from the holotype collected in Aden, Yemen, and it has not been observed since its description in 1933. Here we provide a second record for this species, which represents the first record of this genus for Oman. This extends its range in southern Arabia by more than 1000 km. The observed specimen was determined as R. arabicus on the basis of its similarity in size, color, and scalation with the holotype. Furthermore, we sequenced three mitochondrial (12S, 16S, cytb) and one nuclear (cmos) genes for R. arabicus and for two individuals of R. melanocephalus and one R. satunini and inferred the phylogenetic relationships of all currently recognized species of the genus for the first time. The results of our phylogenetic analyses indicate that Rhynchocalamus is a member of the Western Palearctic clade of Colubrinae and is sister to Lytorhynchus, with which it forms a very well supported clade and shares some morphological characters. As our results show, R. satunini is the basal lineage of the genus and R. melanocephalus is sister to R. arabicus.

Mass spectrometry guided venom profiling and bioactivity screening of the Anatolian Meadow Viper, Vipera anatolica

This contribution reports on the first characterization of the venom proteome and the bioactivity screening of Vipera anatolica, the Anatolian Meadow Viper. The crude venom as well as an isolated dimeric disintegrin showed remarkable cytotoxic activity against glioblastoma cells. Due to the rare occurrence and the small size of this species only little amount of venom was available, which was profiled by means of a combination of bottom-up and top-down mass spectrometry. From this analysis we identified snake venom metalloproteases, cysteine-rich secretory protein isoforms, a metalloprotease inhibitor, several type A2 phospholipases, disintegrins, a snake venom serine protease, a C-type lectin and a Kunitz-type protease inhibitor. Furthermore, we detected several isoforms of above mentioned proteins as well as previously unknown proteins, indicating an extensive complexity of the venom which would have remained undetected with conventional venomic approaches.

[Morphological features of Bundleia spp. (Ciliophora: Entodiniomorphida: Buetschliidae) and ontogenesis in Bundleia Cunha and Muniz 1928]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological features of 7 endocommensal ciliates, B. (s. str.) postciliata, B. (s. str.) piriformis, B. (s. str.) nana, B. (C.) elongata, B. (C.) triangularis, B. (F.) dolichosoma, and B. (F.) inflata belonging to the genus Bundleia, which exist in the hindgut of 15 Rahvan horses and 15 racing horses living in the vicinity of Izmir and to investigate the ontogenesis in the Bundleia genus.

METHODS

Specimens were obtained from 30 horses and were fixed with 10% formalin. The morphological features of the species were investigated with the pyridinated silver carbonate impregnation and silver nitrate impregnation techniques at the level of light microscopy.

RESULTS

The morphological features of Bundleia spp. were found to be similar to the original descriptions, and it was detected that ontogenesis in the Bundleia genus exhibited suitability with other ciliate species in the Entodiniomorphida order.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the geographical variation and feeding habits of host animals are important for evaluating the biometric data of species.

Histochemical and biometric study of the gastrointestinal system of Hyla orientalis (Bedriaga, 1890) (Anura, Hylidae)

This study was carried out to assess the localization of hyaluronic acid (HA) and the distribution of glycoproteins in the gastrointestinal system of adult Hyla orientalis. Histochemical analysis of the gastrointestinal system in H. orientalis showed that mucous content included glycogene and/or oxidable dioles [periodic acid/Schiff (PAS)+], neutral or acid-rich (PAS/AB pH 2.5+), sialic acid residues (KOH/PAS+) and acid sulphate [Aldehyde fuchsin (AF)+] glycoproteins. However the mucus content was not the same in stomach, small and large intestine. The mucus content of stomach included only glycogene and/or oxidable dioles and sialic acid residues. Besides these histochemical methods, the localization of HA was detected using biotinylated hyaluronic acid binding protein labeled with streptavidin-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). In the extracellular matrix of the submucosa, the reaction for HA was evident. Since HA was located in submucosa beneath the epithelial layer of gastrointestinal system, it has a significant role in hydric balance, and essential to provide the gastrointestinal system integrity and functionality. According to biometric results, there were statistical differences between small and large intestine in terms of the amount of material stained positive with PAS/AB, PAS, KOH/PAS and AF/AB. Additionally, number of goblet cells in the small and large intestine was significantly different.

[An epidemiological study on canine leishmaniasis (CanL) and sand flies in Northern Cyprus]

OBJECTIVE

In this study, the investigation on the prevalence of canine leishmaniasis (CanL) and sand fly species incriminated as potential vectors of leishmaniasis in the northern part of the Cyprus were aimed.

METHODS

This research was conducted in two periods; 2004 and 2012. Serological (IFAT and rK39) and molecular (PCR) tests were performed on 83 dog blood samples during the 2004 survey. PCR was performed using primers 13A/13B targeting kinetoplastid minicircle constant region. Genomic Nested-PCR was applied using R221/R332 and R323/333 primers for 5 clinically suspected dog samples in 2012. Sand flies were collected from the Lapithos town and Kyreniae province using CDC light traps and midgut dissection was done for the presence of Leishmania parasites during the 2012 survey.

RESULTS

Three (3.61%) out of 83 dogs were found to be positive for CanL in 2004, while 3 out of 5 clinically suspected dogs were positive in 2012. In total 296 female sand flies were dissected and 9 species belonging to Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia genera were determined. No promastigote was found in the dissected females.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in two different periods showed that the importance and risk of canine disease are increasing in the northern Cyprus and further studies should be performed in northern Cyprus for determining the incidence of canine and human leishmaniasis.

Description of Rhynchocystis silvae sp. nov (Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida) from Metaphire peguana Rosa (1890) of Dhaka, Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE

Biodiversity studies in search of endoparasitic acephaline gregarines of earthworms revealed a new species under the genus Rhynchocystis Hesse, 1909.

METHODS

The species has been obtained from the seminal vesicles of the earthworm, Metaphire peguana. The parasite was identified using standard methodology.

RESULTS

Gamonts are solitary, elongated with a conical, enlarged head and blunt posterior end. The mature gamont measures 419.90- 430.95 (425.05±4.70) μm in length and the width at the widest portion is 44.2-50.83 (47.88±2.85) μm and 15.47-17.68 (16.50±1.14) μm in the posterior end. The nucleus is elongated and positioned at the posterior end. The nucleus measures 17.68-22.01 (19.74±1.95) μmx11.05- 15.47 (13.40±1.95) μm. The measurement of the mucron is 13.26-17.68 (15.47±1.86) μmx17.68-22.1 (19.44±1.71) μm. Gametocysts are ovoid with two unequal sized gametocytes. The gametocyst measures 95.03-97.24 (96.20±1.14) μmx77.35-81.77 (79.56±1.86) μm. Large and small gametocytes measure 57.46-61.88 (59.81±1.76) μmx70.72-75.14 (72.48±1.71) μm and 30.94-37.57 (34.47±2.74) μmx61.88-66.3 (64.38±1.84) μm respectively. Oocysts are biconical, measuring 11.05-15.47 (12.81±1.71) μmx6.63-8.84 (7.70±1.20) μm.

CONCLUSION

A new gregarine parasite species is described.

Intestinal ciliate composition found in the feces of racing horses from Izmir, Turkey

Species composition and distribution of intestinal ciliates were investigated in the feces from 15 racing horses living near Izmir, Turkey. Thirty-seven species belonging to 21 genera were identified. Although no new species were observed, this is the first report on intestinal ciliates in racing horses living in Turkey. The mean number of ciliates was 26.4 ± 13.9 × 10(4) cells ml(-1) of feces and the mean number of ciliate species per host was 18.8 ± 7.1. No ciliates were observed in one horse. Bundleia and Polymorphella were found to be the two dominant genera, occurring in high proportions. In contrast, Didesmis and Prorodonopsis were only observed at a low frequency. Bundleia nana, Blepharoconus hemiciliatus, Paraisotrichopsis composita, Prorodonopsis coli and Spirodinium equi were newly recorded from Turkey.

[Occurence of the hindgut ciliates Paraisotricha colpoidea and P. minuta (Ciliophora: Paraisotrichidae) in horses in Turkey]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the cytological features of 2 endocommensal ciliates, P. colpoidea and P. minuta belonging to genus Paraisotricha found in the hindgut of 15 Turk rahvan and 15 English and Arabic horses from Izmir, compare the morphological characters of species with their original descriptions and previous reports and discuss the similarities and differences.

METHODS

The cytological features of two endocommensal ciliates were investigated with the pyridinated silver carbonate impregnation and silver nitrate impregnation techniques at the level of light microscopy.

RESULTS

Specimens from our horses were found to be similar to the original descriptions on the basis of cytological features, morphological characters and biometric data.

CONCLUSION

We have concluded that the geographical variation and feeding habits of the host animals are important for evaluating the biometric data of species.

Intestinal ciliate composition found in the feces of the Turk rahvan horse Equus caballus, Linnaeus 1758

Species composition and distribution of large intestinal ciliates were investigated in the feces from 15 Turk rahvan horses, living in the vicinity of Izmir, Turkey. Twenty-two ciliate genera consisting of 36 species were identified. This is the first report on intestinal ciliates in Turk rahvan horses and no previously unknown species were observed. The mean number of ciliates was 14.2±13.9×10(4) cells ml(-1) of feces and the mean number of ciliate species per host was 9.9±7.1. No ciliates were observed in 2 horses. Bundleia and Blepharocorys were considered to be the major genera since these ciliates were constantly found in high proportions. In contrast, Paraisotricha, Didesmis and Gassovskiella were only observed at low frequencies. The ciliates found in this survey had almost the same characteristics as those described in previous reports, suggesting that there was no significant geographic variation in the intestinal ciliate fauna of equids.

Nematocystis vinodae n. sp. (Protozoa, Apicomplexa, Eugregarinida), a monocystid gregarine from Eutyphoeus nicholsoni (Beddard)

OBJECTIVE

Biodiversity studies in search of endoparasitic acephaline gregarines revealed a new species under the genus Nematocystis Hesse, 1909.

METHODS

The species has been obtained from the seminal vesicles of the earthworm, Eutyphoeus nicholsoni (Beddard).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Gamonts of this species are solitary and bear a perfect nematoid appearance with smoothly curved terminals, especially in mature forms. Mature gamonts measure 245.40-302.66 (270.68±18.86) μm in length and 20.45-26.58 (24.54±2.10) μm in width. Nucleus is rounded or slightly ovoidal, 20.45-24.54 (22.69±1.74) μm in diameter. Gametocysts are almost rounded, measuring 77.71-85.89 (82.82±2.69) μm in diameter. Oocysts are navicular, measuring 7.70-8.47 (8.24±0.36) μm x 4.23-4.62 (4.50 ±0.18) μm.

Redescription of Triplumaria selenica (Ciliophora, Entodiniomorphida) and its phylogenetic position based on the infraciliary bands and 18SSU rRNA gene sequence

Triplumaria selenicaLatteur, Tuffrau and Wespes, 1970 was redescribed from pyridinated silver carbonate-impregnated specimens. Triplumaria selenica has a slit of the vestibular opening extending posteriorly along the left side of the vestibulum. The wide C-shaped adoral polybrachykinety extends along the ventral side of the vestibular opening. The narrow perivestibular polybrachykinety extends laterally along the dorsal side of the vestibular opening from the right end of the adoral polybrachykinety and forms a loop extending posteriorly along the vestibular slit to join to the left end of the adoral polybrachykinety. The 18SSU rRNA gene of T. selenica as well as those of six other entodiniomorphid species, Raabena bella, Blepharocorys curvigula, Entodinium longinucleatum, Eudiplodinium rostratum, Metadinium medium, and Ostracodinium gracile was sequenced. The neighbor joining and maximum parsimony phylogenetic trees were constructed to discuss the evolution of entodiniomorphs. Our results will support and extend Wolska's hypothesis: the ancestral forms of blepharocorythids have evolved into ophryoscolecids and Cycloposthium species via the ancestor of Triplumaria.

[The occurence of the hindgut ciliate Hemiprorodon gymnoposthium (Ciliophora: Buetschliidae) from domestic horses in Cyprus]

Hemiprorodon gymnoposthium was investigated in the intestine of horses, found in Cyprus. It was found in four of fifth horses examined and thus had a frequency of appearence of 80%. This study reports for the first time the presence of Hemiprorodon gymnoposthium in the intestine of Equids in Cyprus. In addition, it is the second report from the world. Specimens were found to be similar to the original description on the basis of morphological characters and biometric data.

Taxonomic notes on the snakes of Northern Cyprus, with observations on their morphologies and ecologies

Abstract

A total of 66 specimens belonging to eleven snake species, some of which were collected during the field studies of 17-31 July and 3-25 September 2003, and some others which have been previously collected and all have been deposited into the collection of ZDEU (Zoology Dept. Ege University), were evaluated taxonomically. 25 of the specimens belonged to Typhlopidae, 37 to Colubridae, three to Viperidae and one to Boidae. These specimens were evaluated from the points of view of pholidosis, pattern and coloration and morphological measurements. Some biological and ecological information were also given with the brief geological history of eastern Mediterranean region.

Observation on Monocystis constricta n. sp. (Protozoa: Apicomplexa: Monocystidae) from an Indian earthworm, Eutyphoeus quaripapillatus Michelsen, 1907

A biodiversity survey of aseptate gregarines in earthworm hosts in the Calcutta district of West Bengal State revealed the existence of a new species of aseptate gregarine under the genus Monocystis Stein, 1848. The monocystid gregarines obtained from the earthworm host, Eutyphoeus quaripapillatus Michelsen, 1907 have been identified as a new species. The mucron was indistinct. The gamonts are elongated, ovoid, have a hood like structure at the anterior end and measure 150.1-212.4 (188.1+/-2.1) micromx66.1-112.1 (72.3+/-1.1) microm. The gametocysts are ellipsoid and measure 92.3-136.3 microm (111.2+/-2.1)x78.3-114.4 microm (82.6+/-3.6) microm. Prominent syzygy was apparent. Oocysts are navicular, measuring 14.1-22.3 (18.1+/-3.2) micromx9.1-15.2 (11.9+/-1.1) microm.

Serological characterization and confirmation of the taxonomic status of Montivipera albizona (Serpentes, Viperidae) with an additional new locality record and some phylogenetical comments

Abstract

This is the first record of the presence of Montivipera albizona (Nilson, Andrén & Flärdh 1990), in Kahramanmaraş province, Mediterranean Region of Turkey. Here, one young male specimen was collected and is described. The present record of M. albizona extends its known distribution (Kulmac Mountain Range, Sivas) some 250 km to the south-west, where the Anatolian Diagonal exhibits a bifurcation. Our data based on the electropheoretic analysis of blood-sera, indicate that the M. xanthina populations from the western Anatolia and M. albizona distributed along the Anatolian Diagonal show significant differences, qualitatively and quantitatively. Accordingly, it is concluded that M. albizona should not be included within the polymorphic species M. xanthina which lives in western Anatolia and therefore, it should be accepted as a valid species. Moreover, the actual distributions of the related taxa in Anatolia and the geographic structure of the Anatolian Diagonal were discussed.

[The occurrence of the hindgut ciliate Blepharocorys curvigula (Ciliophora: Blepharocorythidae) from horses (Equus caballus Linnaeus, 1758) in the vicinity of Izmir]

Blepharocorys curvigula Gassovsky, 1919 found in the intestine of domestic horses (Equus caballus Linnaeus, 1758), living in the vicinity of Izmir was investigated. It was seen in nine of the thirteen horses examined (69%). This study reports the presence of Blepharocorys curvigula in the intestine of Equids for the first time in Turkey. Specimens were found to be similar to the original descriptions on the basis of morphological characters and biometric data.

A new record for Turkish lice fauna: Dennyus hirundinis (Linnaeus, 1761) (Mallophaga: Menoponidae)

In this study, a bird louse Dennyus hirundinis was recorded for the first time from the swift, Apus apus living in Turkey. Since so little information is available on this rare species, the new record is briefly presented here.

[Occurrence of the flagellated protozoan, Cryptobia helicis Leidy, 1846 (Kinetoplasta: Bodonea: Cryptobiidae) in the garden snail, Helix aspersa]

In this survey, the prevalence and cytological features of the flagellated protozoan, Cryptobia helicis living in the bursa copulatrix of the garden snail, Helix aspersa Müller 1774 found in the vicinity of Izmir, Turkey was investigated. The prevalence of Cryptobia helicis in garden snails collected in the spring of 2005 was found to be 68.65%. This study is the first record of the occurrence of Cryptobia helicis in the garden snail Helix aspersa found in Turkey.

Natural infection of Helix aspersa (Mollusca: Pulmonata) by Dicrocoeliidae (Digenea) larval stages in Izmir, Turkey

In this study, the prevalence of larval stages of Dicrocoeliidae in the garden snail Helix aspersa Müller, 1774 commonly found in the vicinity of Izmir, Turkey was investigated and some of its histological and morphological features were determined. The molluscs were collected during the spring of 2005. As the result of the investigation, a land snail species, H. aspersa, was found to be an intermediate host in the life cycle of Dicrocoeliidae and it had a prevalence of 0.97 % in the study area. In the present study, H. aspersa has been reported for the first time as an intermediate host of Dicrocoeliid species. The prevalence of infection was highest in March.

Monocystis metaphirae sp. nov. (Protista: Apicomplexa: Monocystidae) from the earthworm Metaphire houlleti (Perrier)

Biodiversity studies in search of endoparasitic acephaline gregarines revealed a new species of the genus Monocystis Stein, 1848 in the seminal vesicles of the earthworm Metaphire houlleti (Perrier) residing in alluvial soil of the district of North 24 Parganas. The new species is characterized by having bean-shaped gamonts measuring 94.0-151.0 (119.0+/-16.0) microm x 53.0-81.0(66.0+/-8.0) microm. The anterior end of the gamont is always wider than the posterior end. The mucron is always present at the wider end. The occurrence of syzygy (end to end, cauda-frontal) is a very rare feature which has been observed in the life cycle of the new species. The gametocyst is ovoid consisting of two unequal gamonts, measuring 85.0-102.0 microm (93.0+/-6.0). Oocysts are navicular in shape, measuring 6.5-11.0 (9.0+/-1.1) microm x 4.0-7.5 (5.5+/-1.9) microm.

A new species of Monocystis stein, 1848 (Protista: Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida) from the Indian earthworm, Amynthas Hawayanus Rosa, 1891 (Annelida: Oligochaeta)

As a part of an ongoing biodiversity survey of aseptate gregarine fauna of oligochaete hosts of West Bengal, an expedition was carried out in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal and most of the earthworms collected were found to be infested with a species of Monocystis Stein, 1848. The monocystid species was collected from the seminal vesicles of the earthworm and was identified as a new species, Monocystis amynthae sp. nov. The gamont of the new species is characterized by having an elongated body with broad anterior end, separated from the narrow posterior end by a prominent constriction measuring 49.0-77.0 (66.0+/-1.3) microm x 32.0-41.0 (37.0+/-2.8) microm. The gametocysts are oval-shaped, measuring 40.0-65.0 (58.0+/-2.1) microm. The oocysts are navicular, measuring 8.0-12.0 (10.5+/-1.1) microm x 4.0-6.0 (5.5+/-1.1) microm.

[Rumen ciliate, Ophryoscolex purkynjei Stein, 1858 (Sensu Göçmen, 1999) of the domestic goats (Capra hircus) in Northern Cyprus]

The ciliate protozoon that lives in the rumen of Cypriot domestic goats and belongs to the genus Ophryoscolex from the (Capra hircus) was investigated. As the result of our investigation, a species [Ophryoscolex purkynjei] including four formae [O. p. f. purkynjei, O. p. f. bifidobicinctus, O. p. f. bicoronatus and O. p. f. tricoronatus] were detected. The present study reports for the first time the presence of Ophryoscolex purkynjei f. bifidobicinctus in the rumen of goats. All of the formae determined were compared with their original descriptions and previous reports and the similarities and differences were discussed. It was also determined that the microfauna of the genus Ophryoscolex in the rumen of the Cypriot domestic goat is more diverse than that in goats of other countries.

[Morphometric variations of the rumen ciliate, Ophryoscolex purkynjei Stein, 1858 (Ciliophora: Entodiniomorphida) from cypriot domestic goats]

The species Ophryoscolex purkynjei and its four formae [O. p. f. purkynjei, O. p. f. bifidobicinctus, O. p. f. bicoronatus and O. p. f. tricoronatus] from the Cypriot domestic goats (Capra hircus) have been investigated from the viewpoint of the diagnostic morphometrical characteristics. Moreover, it was demonstrated that there was significant morphometrical variations among the same formae in different host animals. As the result of our investigation, it has been suggested that all of the morphometrical variations determined may originate from the individual physiological differences of the host animals (e.g. the other ciliate fauna, bacterial population, inter-specific antagonism etc.).

Monocystis apporectodae sp. nov. (Protozoa: Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida), from an Indian earthworm Apporectodea trapezoides Duges

A survey aimed at exploring the endoparasitic acephaline gregarine diversity in South-western Bengal, detected a new species of the genus Monocystis Stein, 1848, that resides in the seminal vesicles of the earthworm, Apporectodea trapezoides Duges collected in the district of Bankura from alluvial soil. Monocystis apporectodae sp. nov. is a ribbon-like organism with one or more prominent constric-tions especially in some mature forms and measures 178.0-224.0 (203.0+/-5.0) microm x 37.0-58.0 (46.0+/-1.5) microm. The extreme ends are pointed. Its gametocysts are ovoid and measure 108.0-118.0 microm (113.0+/-1.1) x 79.0-89.0 (83.0+/-1.1) microm. Oocysts are navicular in shape. The length of the oocysts ranges from 10.0-14.6 and the width, from 5.5-8.1 microm.

Clinical, physiological and serological observations of a human following a venomous bite by Macrovipera lebetina lebetina (Reptilia: Serpentes)

A researcher, a 40 year-old male, was bitten on his finger accidentally by a 75 cm long, adult male blunt-nosed viper, Macrovipera lebetina lebetina (Linnaeus) that had been collected from northern Cyprus during laboratory work in the Zoology Section, Biology Department of the Ege University Faculty of Science. The clinical signs, physiological and biochemical changes soon after the venomous bite by the blunt-nosed viper as well as the electrophoretic separation of plasma proteins of the patient have been presented here. Serious important symptoms (edema, hypotension shock, hemorrhage, tissue necrosis, and melanoderma) developed and major quantitative differences in the fractions of albumin, globulin and albumin/globulin ratios were detected. On the other hand, the measurements carried out in blood smears and biochemical results indicated the decrease in RBC, MCV, MHV and a decrease in the diameter of red blood cells, as well as an increase in WBC.

[Entodiniid ciliates (Entodiniidae, Entodiniomorphida) living in the rumen of domesticated goats (Capra hircus L.) in southeastern Turkey.]

The make-up of rumen ciliate protozoons belonging to the family Entodiniidae (Order: Entodiniomorphida) from domesticated goats (Capra hircus L.) in southeastern Turkey was investigated. As the result of the investigation, a genera [Entodinium] of Entodiniomorphida, 20 species belonging to Entodiniidae (Fam: [E. exiguum, E. nanellum, E. minimum, E. parvum, E. simplex, E. dubardi, E. ovinum, E. dilobum, E. constrictum, E. bovis, E. bursa, E. ellipsoideum, E. longinucleatum, E. caudatum, E. simulans, E. rectangulatum, E. dalli, E. williamsi, E. basoglui ve E. salmani] and 7 species [E. parvum f. parvum, E. dubardi f. dubardi, E. longinucleatum f. longinucleatum, E. caudatum f. dubardi, E. caudatum f. caudatum, E. caudatum f. lobosospinosum, E. simulans f. caudatum, E. simulans f. lobosospinosum, E. rectangulatum f. rectangulatum, E. rectangulatum f. lobosospinosum, E. rectangulatum f. dubardi, E. dalli f. rudidorsospinosum, E. williamsi f. williamsi, E. williamsi f. turcicum, E. salmani f. salmani, E. salmani f. monospinosum, E. salmani f. bispinosum, E. salmani f. trispinosum] were detected. The present study reports the presence of Entodinium constrictum, E. bovis, E. bursa, E. ellipsoideum, E. caudatum f. dubardi, E. caudatum f. lobosospinosum, E. simulans f. caudatum, E. simulans f. lobosospinosum, E. dalli f. rudidorsospinosum, E. williamsi, E. basoglui and E. salmani in the rumen of goats for the first time.

Ciliated protozoa in the rumen of Turkish domestic cattle (Bos taurus L.)

Rumen contents obtained from 28 domesticated cattle (Bos taurus L.) slaughtered at abatoirs near Izmir, Turkey were surveyed for ciliate protozoa. Protozoa are known to make an appreciable contribution to ruminal fiber digestion in many different geographical areas; however, little if any information is available on their occurrence in Turkish cattle. As a result of our survey, 13 genera including 52 species were identified. Nine of the species were further divided into 36 forma. The average ciliate density in our cattle (52.44 X 10(4)/ml) was higher than that of Turkish domestic sheep and other domestic cattle reported previously from different geographical areas. Entodinium basoglui, Entodinium williamsi f. williamsi, E. williamsi f. turcicum, E. dalli f. rudidorsospinatum, Entodinium imai, Entodinium oektemae, Eudiplodinium dehorityi, Epidinium graini, Ophryoscolex purkynjei f. bifidobicinctus, and Ophryoscolex purkynjei f. bifidoquadricinctus have previously been reported from Turkey and appear to be endemic. All ofthe remaining species represent a new host record for domestic Turkish cattle. This study also reports for the second time the presence of Entodinium constrictum in herbivorous mammals, and is the first record of its occurrence in domesticated cattle.