Biochemical and molecular biomarkers and their association with anthropogenic chemicals in wintering Manx shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus).

Anthropogenic pollution poses a threat to marine conservation by causing chronic toxic effects. Seabirds have contact throughout their lives with pollutants like plastic, metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides such as hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs). We assessed 155 Manx shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus) stranded along the Brazilian coast, analyzing associations between organic pollutants, plastic ingestion, biomarkers (transcript levels of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, cytochrome P450-1A-5 [CYP1A5], UDP-glucuronosyl-transferase [UGT1], estrogen receptor alpha-1 [ESR1], and heat shock protein-70 genes) and enzymes activity (ethoxy-resorufin O-deethylase and glutathione S-transferase [GST]). Plastic debris was found in 29 % of the birds. The transcription of UGT1 and CYP1A5 was significantly associated with hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and PCBs levels. ESR1 was associated with HCB and Mirex, and GST was associated with Drins and Mirex. While organic pollutants affected shearwaters more than plastic ingestion, reducing plastic availability remains relevant as xenobiotics are also potentially adsorbed onto plastics.

Evidence of reassortment of avian influenza A (H2) viruses in Brazilian shorebirds.

Influenza A viruses of the H2 subtype represent a zoonotic and pandemic threat to humans due to a lack of widespread specific immunity. Although A(H2) viruses that circulate in wild bird reservoirs are distinct from the 1957 pandemic A(H2N2) viruses, there is concern that they could impact animal and public health. There is limited information on AIVs in Latin America, and next to nothing about H2 subtypes in Brazil. In the present study, we report the occurrence and genomic sequences of two influenza A viruses isolated from wild-caught white-rumped sandpipers (Calidris fuscicollis). One virus, identified as A(H2N1), was isolated from a bird captured in Restinga de Jurubatiba National Park (PNRJ, Rio de Janeiro), while the other, identified as A(H2N2), was isolated from a bird captured in Lagoa do Peixe National Park (PNLP, Rio Grande do Sul). DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the obtained sequences revealed that each virus belonged to distinct subtypes. Furthermore, the phylogenetic analysis indicated that the genomic sequence of the A(H2N1) virus isolated from PNRJ was most closely related to other A(H2N1) viruses isolated from North American birds. On the other hand, the A(H2N2) virus genome recovered from the PNLP-captured bird exhibited a more diverse origin, with some sequences closely related to viruses from Iceland and North America, and others showing similarity to virus sequences recovered from birds in South America. Viral genes of diverse origins were identified in one of the viruses, indicating local reassortment. This suggests that the extreme South of Brazil may serve as an environment conducive to reassortment between avian influenza virus lineages from North and South America, potentially contributing to an increase in overall viral diversity.

Molecular Survey of Haemosporidian Parasites in Procellariiformes Sampled in Southern Brazil, 2013-22.

The order Procellariiformes includes several species of seabirds that perform long-distance migrations crossing all the oceans. These movements may contribute to the dispersal and exchange of hemoparasites, such as haemosporidians. There is a lack of studies regarding the order Haemosporida in Procellariiformes, and, to date, only the genus Plasmodium has been reported. This survey investigated the occurrence of the three genera of haemosporidians, Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon, in samples collected between 2013 and 2022 from 95 individuals of 14 species of Procellariiformes from southern Brazil, including live animals in rehabilitation centers, individuals caught as incidental bycatch, and carcasses found along the coast. A total of 171 samples of blood and fragments of liver and spleen were analyzed, with extracted DNA being subjected to a nested PCR followed by phylogeny analysis. All animals were negative for Plasmodium spp. and Leucocytozoon spp., but one Black-browed Albatross (Thalassarche melanophris) and one Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) specimen were positive for Haemoproteus spp. The sequences obtained from positive seabirds did not show 100% similarity with other known lineages available in the MalAvi database and thus were probably novel lineages. However, one sequence clustered together with Haemoproteus noctuae, a parasite from Strigiformes, while the other was grouped with Haemoproteus columbae, which is classically related to Columbiformes. These results suggest that both positive animals may have become infected when beached or in rehabilitation centers by a spillover of vectors from local birds. This highlights the importance of surveillance of the health of Procellariiformes regarding the possibility of dissemination of new pathogens in different bird populations.

A novel variant of Babesia sp. (Piroplasmida) as a hemoparasite in procellariiform seabirds.

Procellariiformes includes pelagic seabirds that only use land for breeding; and also, these sites mostly occur in insular habitats. These peculiar habits make the investigation of hemoparasites a challenging issue. Thus, the data on the blood parasites of Procellariiformes are still scarce. In the order Piroplasmida, 16 species of Babesia have been described in terrestrial birds and seabirds. However, there is no register for Babesia spp. in procellariiform seabirds. Hence, the objective of this survey was to investigate the occurrence of Babesia spp. in these seabirds. A total of 220 tissue samples from 18 different seabird species were analyzed; the samples comprised blood and fragments of liver and spleen. The samples were obtained from live rescued animals and carcasses found along the southern coast of Brazil. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Only one blood sample yielded a positive result, from an adult female Thalassarche chlororhynchos (Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross). The sequence obtained showed the highest identity with sequences of Babesia spp. of birds from the South Pacific, and the isolate was named Babesia sp. strain Albatross. In the phylogenetic analysis, the sequence was grouped within the Babesia sensu stricto group, and further still into a subgroup including Babesia spp. of the Kiwiensis clade (parasites from birds). The phylogenetic analysis also showed that Babesia sp. strain Albatross clustered apart from the Peircei group, a clade that includes Babesia spp. from seabirds. As far as it is known, this is the first report of Babesia sp. in procellariiform seabirds. Babesia sp. strain Albatross may constitute a novel variant of tick-borne piroplasmids associated with the Procellariiformes order.

PHTHALATE ESTERS (PLASTICIZERS) IN THE UROPYGIAL GLAND AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO PLASTICS INGESTION IN SEABIRDS ALONG THE COAST OF ESPÍRITO SANTO, EASTERN BRAZIL.

Plastic ingestion is a problem for seabirds worldwide. In addition to direct health effects such as obstruction or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, plastic ingestion can also lead to indirect health effects through the release of chemicals that may be absorbed and cause systemic and chronic toxicity. Among chemicals that can be released by plastics are phthalate esters, a group of chemicals widely used as plasticizers or additives to change the physical characteristics of plastics. In this study, three phthalate esters, dimethyl phthalate (DMP), dibuthyl phthalate (DBP), and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), were quantified in the uropygial gland of 48 seabirds from 16 species collected ashore in a tropical region, the coast of Espírito Santo, Eastern Brazil. Including trace levels, DMP was detected in 16 birds (33%) from 10 species, with an average concentration of 0.014 ± 0.005 ng/µl (mean ± SD for individuals with concentrations above the practical level of detection of 0.01 ng/µl). DBP was detected in 15 birds (31%) from 11 species, with an average concentration of 0.049 ± 0.032 ng/µl. DEHP was detected in 21 birds (44%) from 11 species, with an average concentration of 0.115 ± 0.105 ng/µl. DMP concentration in the uropygial gland was positively associated with the presence, number, and mass of plastic items in the upper digestive tract. However, no such relationship was noted for DBP nor DEHP, suggesting the concentration of phthalate compounds in the uropygial gland might not always serve as a reliable proxy for plastic ingestion. In spite of relatively high frequencies of detection, the low concentrations of phthalates detected in this study suggest levels of exposure below known toxicity thresholds. Further studies on the potential adverse effects of phthalate exposure in seabirds are necessary, especially on the reproductive development of embryos and chicks.

Blood parasites of passerines in the Brazilian Pampas and their implications for a potential population supplementation program for the endangered Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata).

Espinilho savanna ("seasonal steppe savanna") is a unique vegetation formation of the Pampas biome that is found near the tri-border of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. The Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata) is a flagship species of this ecosystem, but it is classified as "critically endangered" in Brazil due to habitat loss and poaching for the illegal trade. Population supplementation through the release of individuals that were captive-bred or apprehended by authorities from the illegal trade has been considered as a conservation strategy for this species; however, the risk of pathogen introduction is a critical concern. We used microscopy and molecular methods to investigate the occurrence of blood parasites in wild passerines (n = 64, including three Yellow Cardinals) at Espinilho State Park, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and in captive Yellow Cardinals (n = 30) at three facilities in Brazil. Haemosporidian parasites were detected in the blood smears of 10.9% of the wild passerines, comprising the morphospecies Haemoproteus erythrogravidus in Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis), H. quiscalus in Grayish Baywing (Agelaioides badius), and H. tyranni in Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus); these are the southernmost records for these morphospecies and their first record for the Pampas biome. No haemosporidian parasites were detected in the blood smears of the Yellow Cardinals, wild or captive. Microfilariae were detected in the blood smears of 14.1% of the wild passerines, including all wild Yellow Cardinals, and in 43.3% of captive Yellow Cardinals. Trypanosoma sp. was detected in the blood smear of one captive Yellow Cardinal. Nested PCR and gene sequencing of the cyt-b gene of Haemoproteus/Plasmodium was used to test a subset of wild passerines and captive Yellow Cardinals, allowing for the molecular barcoding of H. quiscalus lineage AGEBAD04 and H. tyranni lineage PITSUL01; additionally, DNA identical to that of lineage PITSUL01 was detected in the blood of one captive Yellow Cardinal. This study provides valuable data to support the conservation management of the Yellow Cardinal and other threatened passerines from the Pampas and highlights the need for further studies on the epidemiology and pathology of filarioid worms and trypanosomes in passerines from this biome.

Ingestion of plastics and other debris by coastal and pelagic birds along the coast of Espírito Santo, Eastern Brazil.

Although the ingestion of plastics and other anthropogenic debris by seabirds is a global problem, few studies have employed standardized protocols to quantify and classify the debris ingested by seabirds in the Southwest Atlantic. We evaluated the ingestion of marine debris (items >0.1 mm) by 126 coastal and pelagic birds (19 species) along the coast of Espírito Santo, Eastern Brazil. Debris were found in 30% of birds examined (11 species). Particles <1 mm accounted for 35% of all debris items. Most ingested debris were plastics (97%). Ingestion of >0.1 g of plastic debris was recorded in five species: Atlantic yellow-nosed albatrosses (Thalassarche chlororhynchos), Cory's shearwaters (Calonectris borealis), Manx shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus), brown boobies (Sula leucogaster), and Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus). Our findings suggest that the ingestion of marine debris, especially plastics, is a common problem for coastal and pelagic birds in tropical Southwest Atlantic waters.

Intraspecific variation of trace elements in the kelp gull (Larus dominicanus): influence of age, sex and location.

Hepatic tissue of Larus dominicanus sampled on the coastline of the state of Santa Catarina in Brazil between October 2016 and May 2018 was used to evaluate intraspecific trends and spatial distribution of essential trace elements (Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, Mo and Cr) and non-essential trace elements (As, Pb, Cd, Hg, Ba and V). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated differences in the bioaccumulation of trace elements between female adults and male adults, differences to sex and age were indicated by Kruskal-Wallis test. Heat maps suggest hot spots in locals with high concentration of trace elements in liver of Larus dominicanus. In general, the concentration of trace elements were comparable with values reported in other studies carried out for this species in South America and other regions of the world. The heat maps showed to be a promising tool to identify influences of the locality on bioaccumulation of trace elements in Larus dominicanus.

Staphylococcus sciuri as a Reservoir of mecA to Staphylococcus aureus in Non-Migratory Seabirds from a Remote Oceanic Island.

Aim: Genomic analysis of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain cultured from a non-migratory seabird at Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (Brazilian oceanic islands) was carried out to investigate the potential origin of MRSA genetic determinants in an ecological setting with minimal or absent antimicrobial selective pressure, and minimal interaction with humans and domestic animals. Results: The study determined mecA gene homology and the phylogenetic relatedness with mecA described in Staphylococcus sciuri, which was the major Staphylococcus spp. cultured from the birds. Our findings corroborate in silico assumptions that the mecA gene in MRSA strains clinically relevant for humans and animals originates from S. sciuri ancestors. Conclusion: Coagulase-negative staphylococci seem to be natural reservoirs of methicillin-resistant genes to S. aureus, even in environments with very low antimicrobial selection pressure.

Molecular diagnosis of avian viruses in grassland passerines and captive yellow cardinals Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil / Diagnóstico molecular de vírus aviários em passeriformes campestres e cardeais-amarelos Gubernatrix cristata cativos no Brasil

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), West Nile virus (WNV), adenovirus (AV) and herpesvirus (HV) play an important role in the health of human and animal populations. However, knowledge of the prevalence of these viruses in wild birds is restricted to some groups (e.g. shorebirds) or regions worldwide. Information on grassland birds of South America, which is essential for their conservation, is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate occurrences of AIV, NDV, WNV, AV and HV for the first time in a bird community of a unique protected area in southern Brazil, which is home for the critically endangered yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata), and captive yellow cardinals from fauna maintainers of the Brazilian Captive Program of the Yellow Cardinal. Passerine species of wild life were caught, identified and samples (swabs) were collected from the oropharynx and cloaca of 64 passerines of 26 species (including 3 yellow cardinals) and 30 yellow cardinals of captive, for molecular diagnosis. The samples were subjected to RNA and DNA extraction and the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for AIV, NDV and WNV and nested PCR for AV and HV. One yellow cardinal of captive presented a positive result for AV, this result is important for planning, managing natural attributes and making decisions in relation to integrated conservation of threatened species. This is the first report of AV in yellow cardinal and epidemiological investigation of viruses in wild passerines of the Pampa biome, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.(AU)

Os vírus da gripe aviária (VGA), vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN), vírus do Nilo Ocidental (VNO), adenovírus (AV) e herpesvírus (HV) desempenham um papel importante na saúde das populações humana e animal. No entanto, o conhecimento da prevalência desses vírus em aves selvagens é restrito a alguns grupos (por exemplo, aves limícolas) ou regiões em todo o mundo. As informações sobre as aves campestres da América do Sul, essenciais para a sua conservação, são escassas. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ocorrência de VGA, VDN, VNO, AV e HV pela primeira vez em uma comunidade de aves de uma área única protegida no Sul do Brasil, que abriga o cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) criticamente ameaçado de extinção e em cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro dos mantenedores de fauna do Programa Brasileiro de Cativeiro do Cardeal-amarelo. Espécies de passeriformes silvestres foram capturadas, identificadas e amostras (swabs) foram coletadas da orofaringe e cloaca de 64 passeriformes de 26 espécies (incluindo 3 cardeais-amarelos) e 30 cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro, para diagnóstico molecular. As amostras foram submetidas à extração de RNA e DNA e à reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (RT-PCR) para VGA, VDN e VNO e nested PCR para AV e HV. Um cardeal-amarelo de cativeiro apresentou resultado positivo para AV, este resultado é importante para o planejamento, manejo dos atributos naturais e tomada de decisões em relação à conservação integrada de espécies ameaçadas. Este é o primeiro relato de AV em cardeal-amarelo e de investigação epidemiológica de vírus em passeriformes silvestres do bioma Pampa, no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.(AU)

Molecular diagnosis of avian viruses in grassland passerines and captive yellow cardinals Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil

ABSTRACT: Avian influenza viruses (AIVs), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), West Nile virus (WNV), adenovirus (AV) and herpesvirus (HV) play an important role in the health of human and animal populations. However, knowledge of the prevalence of these viruses in wild birds is restricted to some groups (e.g. shorebirds) or regions worldwide. Information on grassland birds of South America, which is essential for their conservation, is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate occurrences of AIV, NDV, WNV, AV and HV for the first time in a bird community of a unique protected area in southern Brazil, which is home for the critically endangered yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata), and captive yellow cardinals from fauna maintainers of the Brazilian Captive Program of the Yellow Cardinal. Passerine species of wild life were caught, identified and samples (swabs) were collected from the oropharynx and cloaca of 64 passerines of 26 species (including 3 yellow cardinals) and 30 yellow cardinals of captive, for molecular diagnosis. The samples were subjected to RNA and DNA extraction and the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for AIV, NDV and WNV and nested PCR for AV and HV. One yellow cardinal of captive presented a positive result for AV, this result is important for planning, managing natural attributes and making decisions in relation to integrated conservation of threatened species. This is the first report of AV in yellow cardinal and epidemiological investigation of viruses in wild passerines of the Pampa biome, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

RESUMO: Os vírus da gripe aviária (VGA), vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN), vírus do Nilo Ocidental (VNO), adenovírus (AV) e herpesvírus (HV) desempenham um papel importante na saúde das populações humana e animal. No entanto, o conhecimento da prevalência desses vírus em aves selvagens é restrito a alguns grupos (por exemplo, aves limícolas) ou regiões em todo o mundo. As informações sobre as aves campestres da América do Sul, essenciais para a sua conservação, são escassas. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ocorrência de VGA, VDN, VNO, AV e HV pela primeira vez em uma comunidade de aves de uma área única protegida no Sul do Brasil, que abriga o cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) criticamente ameaçado de extinção e em cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro dos mantenedores de fauna do Programa Brasileiro de Cativeiro do Cardeal-amarelo. Espécies de passeriformes silvestres foram capturadas, identificadas e amostras (swabs) foram coletadas da orofaringe e cloaca de 64 passeriformes de 26 espécies (incluindo 3 cardeais-amarelos) e 30 cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro, para diagnóstico molecular. As amostras foram submetidas à extração de RNA e DNA e à reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (RT-PCR) para VGA, VDN e VNO e nested PCR para AV e HV. Um cardeal-amarelo de cativeiro apresentou resultado positivo para AV, este resultado é importante para o planejamento, manejo dos atributos naturais e tomada de decisões em relação à conservação integrada de espécies ameaçadas. Este é o primeiro relato de AV em cardeal-amarelo e de investigação epidemiológica de vírus em passeriformes silvestres do bioma Pampa, no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.

ATLANTIC BIRD TRAITS: a data set of bird morphological traits from the Atlantic forests of South America.

Scientists have long been trying to understand why the Neotropical region holds the highest diversity of birds on Earth. Recently, there has been increased interest in morphological variation between and within species, and in how climate, topography, and anthropogenic pressures may explain and affect phenotypic variation. Because morphological data are not always available for many species at the local or regional scale, we are limited in our understanding of intra- and interspecies spatial morphological variation. Here, we present the ATLANTIC BIRD TRAITS, a data set that includes measurements of up to 44 morphological traits in 67,197 bird records from 2,790 populations distributed throughout the Atlantic forests of South America. This data set comprises information, compiled over two centuries (1820-2018), for 711 bird species, which represent 80% of all known bird diversity in the Atlantic Forest. Among the most commonly reported traits are sex (n = 65,717), age (n = 63,852), body mass (n = 58,768), flight molt presence (n = 44,941), molt presence (n = 44,847), body molt presence (n = 44,606), tail length (n = 43,005), reproductive stage (n = 42,588), bill length (n = 37,409), body length (n = 28,394), right wing length (n = 21,950), tarsus length (n = 20,342), and wing length (n = 18,071). The most frequently recorded species are Chiroxiphia caudata (n = 1,837), Turdus albicollis (n = 1,658), Trichothraupis melanops (n = 1,468), Turdus leucomelas (n = 1,436), and Basileuterus culicivorus (n = 1,384). The species recorded in the greatest number of sampling localities are Basileuterus culicivorus (n = 243), Trichothraupis melanops (n = 242), Chiroxiphia caudata (n = 210), Platyrinchus mystaceus (n = 208), and Turdus rufiventris (n = 191). ATLANTIC BIRD TRAITS (ABT) is the most comprehensive data set on measurements of bird morphological traits found in a biodiversity hotspot; it provides data for basic and applied research at multiple scales, from individual to community, and from the local to the macroecological perspectives. No copyright or proprietary restrictions are associated with the use of this data set. Please cite this data paper when the data are used in publications or teaching and educational activities.

Divergent coronaviruses detected in wild birds in Brazil, including a central park in São Paulo.

Coronaviruses are single-stranded positive-sense RNA viruses associated with important avian diseases. Their relatively high rates of mutation and recombination frequencies allow them to adapt to new hosts and ecological niches. Although Brazil has 18% of global avian species diversity, studies regarding the presence of avian viral diseases in wild birds in South America are scarce. In this study, we performed a retrospective analysis of the presence of CoVs in 746 wild birds. Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were obtained and placed together in vials containing VTM transport medium collected in different regions of Brazil between 2006 and 2013. Screening for viral nucleic acid was performed using conventional RT-PCR and pancoronavirus nested PCR. Positive samples were characterized by partial sequencing of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene, and ensuing phylogenetic analysis was performed to investigate the association between virus epidemiology and bird migration routes. Coronavirus RNA were detected and sequenced from six samples, in which three were related to gammacoronaviruses group and the other three to deltacoronavirus group. Our study documents the presence of CoVs related to avian gamma- and deltacoronaviruses circulating in both urban- and poultry-farm regions of Brazil, implicating wild birds as potential carriers of CoVs which may represent a risk to poultry farms and public health in Brazil.

Can the intake of antiparasitic secondary metabolites explain the low prevalence of hemoparasites among wild Psittaciformes?

BACKGROUND: Parasites can exert selection pressure on their hosts through effects on survival, on reproductive success, on sexually selected ornament, with important ecological and evolutionary consequences, such as changes in population viability. Consequently, hemoparasites have become the focus of recent avian studies. Infection varies significantly among taxa. Various factors might explain the differences in infection among taxa, including habitat, climate, host density, the presence of vectors, life history and immune defence. Feeding behaviour can also be relevant both through increased exposure to vectors and consumption of secondary metabolites with preventative or therapeutic effects that can reduce parasite load. However, the latter has been little investigated. Psittaciformes (parrots and cockatoos) are a good model to investigate these topics, as they are known to use biological control against ectoparasites and to feed on toxic food. We investigated the presence of avian malaria parasites (Plasmodium), intracellular haemosporidians (Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon), unicellular flagellate protozoans (Trypanosoma) and microfilariae in 19 Psittaciformes species from a range of habitats in the Indo-Malayan, Australasian and Neotropical regions. We gathered additional data on hemoparasites in wild Psittaciformes from the literature. We considered factors that may control the presence of hemoparasites in the Psittaciformes, compiling information on diet, habitat, and climate. Furthermore, we investigated the role of diet in providing antiparasitic secondary metabolites that could be used as self-medication to reduce parasite load. RESULTS: We found hemoparasites in only two of 19 species sampled. Among them, all species that consume at least one food item known for its secondary metabolites with antimalarial, trypanocidal or general antiparasitic properties, were free from hemoparasites. In contrast, the infected parrots do not consume food items with antimalarial or even general antiparasitic properties. We found that the two infected species in this study consumed omnivorous diets. When we combined our data with data from studies previously investigating blood parasites in wild parrots, the positive relationship between omnivorous diets and hemoparasite infestation was confirmed. Individuals from open habitats were less infected than those from forests. CONCLUSIONS: The consumption of food items known for their secondary metabolites with antimalarial, trypanocidal or general antiparasitic properties, as well as the higher proportion of infected species among omnivorous parrots, could explain the low prevalence of hemoparasites reported in many vertebrates.

Migratory birds in southern Brazil are a source of multiple avian influenza virus subtypes.

BACKGROUND: There is insufficient knowledge about the relation of avian influenza virus (AIV) to migratory birds in South America. Accordingly, we studied samples obtained over a 4-year period (2009-2012) from wild birds at a major wintering site in southern Brazil. METHODS: We obtained 1212 oropharyngeal/cloacal samples from wild birds at Lagoa do Peixe National Park and screened them for influenza A virus by RT-PCR amplification of the matrix gene. Virus isolates were subjected to genomic sequencing and antigenic characterization. RESULTS: Forty-eight samples of 1212 (3.96%) contained detectable influenza virus RNA. Partial viral sequences were obtained from 12 of these samples, showing the presence of H2N2 (1), H6Nx (1), H6N1 (8), H9N2 (1), and H12N5 (1) viruses. As H6 viruses predominated, we generated complete genomes from all 9 H6 viruses. Phylogenetic analyses showed that they were most similar to viruses of South American lineage. The H6N1 viruses caused no disease signs in infected ferrets and, despite genetic differences, were antigenically similar to North American isolates. CONCLUSIONS: Lagoa do Peixe National Park is a source of multiple AIV subtypes, with the levels of influenza virus in birds being highest at the end of their wintering period in this region. H6N1 viruses were the predominant subtype identified. These viruses were more similar to viruses of South American lineage than to those of North American lineage.

Survey of pathogens in threatened wild red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) nestlings in Rasa Island, Brazil

ABSTRACT The red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) is a threatened species of psittacine bird that inhabit coastal regions of Brazil. In view of the threat of this species, the aim of this study was to perform a health evaluation in wild nestlings in Rasa Island, determining the prevalence of enterobacteria and infectious agents according to type of nest. Blood samples were collected from 64 birds and evaluated for antibodies of Chlamydia psittaci by commercial dot-blot ELISA. Cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs samples were collected from 23 birds from artificial wooden nests, 15 birds from PVC nests and 2 birds from natural nests for microbiological analysis. Swab samples were collected from 58 parrots for C. psittaci detection by PCR and from 50 nestlings for Avian Influenza, Newcastle Disease and West Nile viruses' detection analysis by real-time RT-PCR. Ten bacterial genera and 17 species were identified, and the most prevalent were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella oxytoca. There was no influence of the type of nest in the nestlings' microbiota. All samples tested by ELISA and PCR were negative. There is currently insufficient information available about the health of A. brasiliensis and data of this study provide a reference point for future evaluations and aid in conservation plans.

Survey of pathogens in threatened wild red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) nestlings in Rasa Island, Brazil.

The red-tailed Amazon parrot (Amazona brasiliensis) is a threatened species of psittacine bird that inhabit coastal regions of Brazil. In view of the threat of this species, the aim of this study was to perform a health evaluation in wild nestlings in Rasa Island, determining the prevalence of enterobacteria and infectious agents according to type of nest. Blood samples were collected from 64 birds and evaluated for antibodies of Chlamydia psittaci by commercial dot-blot ELISA. Cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs samples were collected from 23 birds from artificial wooden nests, 15 birds from PVC nests and 2 birds from natural nests for microbiological analysis. Swab samples were collected from 58 parrots for C. psittaci detection by PCR and from 50 nestlings for Avian Influenza, Newcastle Disease and West Nile viruses' detection analysis by real-time RT-PCR. Ten bacterial genera and 17 species were identified, and the most prevalent were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella oxytoca. There was no influence of the type of nest in the nestlings' microbiota. All samples tested by ELISA and PCR were negative. There is currently insufficient information available about the health of A. brasiliensis and data of this study provide a reference point for future evaluations and aid in conservation plans.

Hematologic reference values of Vinaceous-breasted Amazon (Amazona vinacea) / Valores hematológicos de referência em Papagaio-de-Peito-Roxo (Amazona vinacea)

ABSTRACT Avian hematologic reference intervals are useful tools to evaluate body homeostasis and diagnose diseases. However, there are few species-specific reference intervals published. The present study reports Vinaceous-breasted Amazon ( Amazona vinacea ) hematologic reference values obtained during the health status evaluation of release candidates as part of this species reintroduction efforts at the Araucárias National Park. Parameters reported are erythrogram (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean cell volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and mean corpuscular hemoglobin), Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW), white cells total and differential (heterophiles, lymphocytes, basophils, eosinophils and monocytes), thrombocytes and total plasma protein. For the first time results on RDW and thrombocytes were described and a larger sample size were provided for all parameters analyzed. Intervals demonstrated in the present study showed significant differences from those considered normal in other parrot species and consequently have contributed to bring valuable information to base actions for the conservation of this endangered species of great biological value.

RESUMO Os valores de intervalos de referência para parâmetros hematológicos aviários são ferramentas úteis para avaliação da homeostase corporal e diagnóstico de doenças. No entanto, são escassos os relatos de intervalos de referência espécie-específico, o que aumenta a probabilidade de um erro na interpretação de dados laboratoriais. Dessa forma, o presente estudo relata valores hematológicos de referência específicos para papagaio-de-peito-roxo ( Amazona vinacea ). Esses valores foram obtidos e calculados durante um projeto de reintrodução como importante e adequada forma para avaliar o estado de saúde de candidatos à soltura. Os analíticos observados foram: eritrograma (eritrócitos, hemoglobina, hematócrito, volume celular, concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular e hemoglobina corpuscular média), distribuição das células vermelhas (RDW), leucograma (basófilos, eosinofilis mielócitos, metamielócitos, heterófilos, linfócitos e monócitos), trombócitos e proteína plasmática total. Este estudo traz, pela primeira vez, resultados referentes a RDW e a contagem de trombócitos para a espécie, além de fornecer um tamanho amostral maior que estudos anteriores. Os intervalos, demonstrados neste estudo, relatam valores diferentes dos considerados normais para outras espécies de papagaios e, consequentemente, vêm contribuindo para embasar a conservação dessa espécie ameaçada de extinção, de grande valor biológico.

O uso da microbiologia como ferramenta para a conservação de aves ameaçadas: dados preliminares para o papagaio-de-cara-roxa, Amazona brasiliensis (aves: Psittacidae) no Paraná / Use of microbiology as a tool for the preservation of threatened bird species: preliminary data for the red-tailed amazon, Amazona brasiliensis (birds: Psittacidae) in Paraná / El uso de la microbiología como herramienta para la conservación de aves amenazadas: datos preliminares para el loro de cara púrpura, Amazona brasiliensis (aves: Psittacidae) en Paraná

Amazona brasiliensis, também conhecido popularmente como papagaio-de-cara-roxa, é uma espécie de Psittacidae endêmica da Mata Atlântica distribuída entre o litoral sul de São Paulo e o litoral Norte de Santa Catarina. Este estudo foi concentrado no estado do Paraná, visando uma prévia caracterização do perfil sanitário natural em filhotes da população por meio de análises microbiológicas. O estudo epidemiológico de uma espécie ameaçada inicia-se com a determinação dos agentes infecciosos comuns na população, que provavelmente co-evoluíram com a espécie e representam baixo risco aos espécimes de vida livre. Do total de colônias isoladas quase 75% foram positivas para a família Enterobacteriaceae. Normalmente, a microbiota entérica de psitacídeos é composta por micro-organismos Gram-positivos, porém a alta porcentagem de Gram-negativas isoladas pode ser explicada pela diferença entre a composição microbiana de adultos e filhotes. Seria interessante um estudo mais detalhado para uma eventual comparação entre possíveis sinais clínicos e micro-organismos presentes em cada indivíduo amostrado.(AU)

Amazona brasiliensis, also popularly known as Red-tailed Amazon, is an endemic species to the Atlantic Forest. This Psittacidae range goes from the south coast of São Paulo state to the northern coast of Santa Catarina state. This study focuses on the population in the state of Paraná, aiming to perform a preliminary characterization of the prevalence of natural pathogens in nestlings through microbiological analyses. The epidemiological study of an endangered species begins with the determination of common infectious agents within the population, which probably co-evolved with the species and represent a low risk to free-living specimens. Almost 75% of the colonies isolated were positive for Enterobacteriaceae. Usually, the enteric microbiota of psittacidae consists of Gram-positive microorganisms, but the high percentage of isolated Gram-negative bacteria can be explained by differences between the microbial composition of adults and nestlings. It would be interesting to further develop this study into a more detailed comparison between possible clinical signs and microorganisms present in each individual sampled.(AU)

Amazona brasiliensis, popularmente conocido como el loro de cara púrpura, es una especie endémica de Psittacidae de la Mata Atlántica distribuido entre la costa sur de São Paulo y la costa norte de Santa Catarina. Este estudio se concentra en el estado de Paraná, buscando caracterizar preliminarmente el perfil sanitario natural en crías de la población, por medio del análisis microbiológico. El estudio epidemiológico de una especie amenazada comienza con la determinación de agentes infecciosos comunes en la población, que probablemente ha evolucionado con la especie y representan un riesgo bajo para especímenes de vida libre. Del total de colonias aisladas casi el 75% fueron positivos para Enterobacteriaceae. Normalmente, la microbiota entérica de loros se compone de microorganismos Gram positivos, pero el alto porcentaje de aislados Gram negativas se puede explicar por la diferencia entre la composición microbiana de adultos y pichones. Sería interesante un estudio más detallado para una posible comparación entre los síntomas clínicos y los microorganismos presentes en cada individuo muestreado.(AU)

Avian influenza virus (H11N9) in migratory shorebirds wintering in the Amazon Region, Brazil.

Aquatic birds are the natural reservoir for avian influenza viruses (AIV). Habitats in Brazil provide stopover and wintering sites for water birds that migrate between North and South America. The current study was conducted to elucidate the possibility of the transport of influenza A viruses by birds that migrate annually between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In total, 556 orotracheal/cloacal swab samples were collected for influenza A virus screening using real-time RT-PCR (rRT-PCR). The influenza A virus-positive samples were subjected to viral isolation. Four samples were positive for the influenza A matrix gene by rRT-PCR. From these samples, three viruses were isolated, sequenced and characterized. All positive samples originated from a single bird species, the ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres), that was caught in the Amazon region at Caeté Bay, Northeast Pará, at Ilha de Canelas. To our knowledge, this is the first isolation of H11N9 in the ruddy turnstone in South America.