Congenital renal hypoplasia and contralateral kidney failure in a giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) ex situ in Southeastern Brazil

Renal hypoplasia is incomplete development of the kidneys, in which fewer than normal numbers of nephrons are present at birth. This report is the first of these conditions in mustelids. A female adult giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), ex situ, presented clinically an unusual behavior with prostration, anorexia, hiding in the shelter, ataxia, paraparesis, and death in a clinical course of one day. At the postmortem exam, the left kidney was markedly enlarged and pale and the right kidney was severely reduced and had mild to moderate capsular thickening. Histologically, the left kidney had mineralization, proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and a mild neutrophilic infiltrate. The right kidney presented a reduced number of glomeruli, tubular atrophy and an increase in fibrous connective tissue, which were findings compatible with congenital kidney hypoplasia. Due the clinical condition of the animal, gross and microscopic findings, the cause of death was established as kidney failure induced by renal hypoplasia.(AU)

Lesser Grison (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) as host of Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782 / Furão Pequeno (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) como hospedeiro de Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782

The Dioctophyme renale is a helminth parasite of the kidney usually seen in domestic and wild carnivores and rarely in human beings. This is a report about the parasitism of D. renale found in the kidney of two roadkill lesser grisons (Galictis cuja) in the North of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The report of this parasitism in this species is important to complement the records about this native carnivore as a contributor in the epidemiologic chain while host/disseminator of this helminth with zoonotic potential.

O Dioctophyme renale é um helminto parasita renal observado normalmente em carnívoros domésticos e silvestres e excepcionalmente em seres humanos. Relata-se o parasitismo por D. renale em rim de dois furões pequenos (Galictis cuja) encontrados mortos por atropelamento no Norte do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Relatar esse parasitismo nessa espécie é importante, para que se possam somar dados relativos a participação deste carnívoro nativo na cadeia epidemiológica como hospedeiro/ veiculador desse helminto com potencial zoonótico.

Lesser Grison (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) as host of Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782 / Furão Pequeno (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) como hospedeiro de Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782

The Dioctophyme renale is a helminth parasite of the kidney usually seen in domestic and wild carnivores and rarely in human beings. This is a report about the parasitism of D. renale found in the kidney of two roadkill lesser grisons (Galictis cuja) in the North of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The report of this parasitism in this species is important to complement the records about this native carnivore as a contributor in the epidemiologic chain while host/disseminator of this helminth with zoonotic potential.(AU)

O Dioctophyme renale é um helminto parasita renal observado normalmente em carnívoros domésticos e silvestres e excepcionalmente em seres humanos. Relata-se o parasitismo por D. renale em rim de dois furões pequenos (Galictis cuja) encontrados mortos por atropelamento no Norte do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Relatar esse parasitismo nessa espécie é importante, para que se possam somar dados relativos a participação deste carnívoro nativo na cadeia epidemiológica como hospedeiro/ veiculador desse helminto com potencial zoonótico.(AU)

Lesser Grison (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) as host of Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782 / Furão Pequeno (Galictis cuja Molina, 1782) como hospedeiro de Dioctophyme renale Goeze, 1782

The Dioctophyme renale is a helminth parasite of the kidney usually seen in domestic and wild carnivores and rarely in human beings. This is a report about the parasitism of D. renale found in the kidney of two roadkill lesser grisons (Galictis cuja) in the North of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The report of this parasitism in this species is important to complement the records about this native carnivore as a contributor in the epidemiologic chain while host/disseminator of this helminth with zoonotic potential.(AU)

O Dioctophyme renale é um helminto parasita renal observado normalmente em carnívoros domésticos e silvestres e excepcionalmente em seres humanos. Relata-se o parasitismo por D. renale em rim de dois furões pequenos (Galictis cuja) encontrados mortos por atropelamento no Norte do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Relatar esse parasitismo nessa espécie é importante, para que se possam somar dados relativos a participação deste carnívoro nativo na cadeia epidemiológica como hospedeiro/ veiculador desse helminto com potencial zoonótico.(AU)

Prevalência de parasitos gastrointestinais em mamíferos selvagens do Jardim Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro / Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild mammals from Zoological Garden of Rio de Janeiro

Durante o período de janeiro a novembro de 2016 foi avaliada a prevalência de parasitos gastrointestinais em mamíferos selvagens do Jardim Zoológico do Rio de Janeiro S/A (RioZoo). Amostras fecais de cento e trinta e três mamíferos selvagens, incluindo setenta e um primatas, vinte e dois felídeos, cinco roedores, cinco procionídeos, quatro taiassuinídeos, quatro mustelídeos, três quirópteros,três canídeos, dois mirmecofagídeos, dois camelídeos, dois tapirídeos, dois cervídeos, dois proboscídeos, dois hipopotamídeos, um otarídeo, um herpestídeo, um erinaceomorfídeo e um dasipodídeo, foram processadas por uso das técnicas de Gordon & Whitlock, Sheather e Baermann-Moraes. A prevalência de animais positivos para pelo menos uma espécie de parasito foi de 16,5 % (22/133) e a prevalência específica para cada grupo de hospedeiros positivos foi de: 100% (1/1) em dasipodídeos, 100% (1/1) em herpestídeos, 50% (1/2) em camelídeos, 21,1% (15/71) em primatas, 20% (1/5) em procionídeos, 13,6% (3/22) em felídeos e 0% em outros grupos (tapirídeos, canídeos, roedores, taiassuinídeos, cervídeos, proboscídeos, mustelídeos, artiodactilídeos, suinídeos, otarídeos, erinaceomorfos, mirmecofagídeos e quirópteros). Das amostras positivas, foram encontrados ovos e larvas de nematóides da Superfamília Rhabdiasoidea em 36,4% (8/22), ovos da Superfamília Ascaroidea em 31,8% (7/22), ovos da Superfamília Trichuroidea em 4,5% (1/22) e ovos da Superfamília Strongyloidea em 4,5% (1/22). O parasitismo por pentastomídeos (subClasse Pentastomida) apresentou prevalência de 4,5 % (1/22) e por acantocéfalos (Filo Acantocephala) 4,5% (1/22). Cistos ou trofozoitas de protozoários (Reino Protozoa) não foram encontrados.(AU)

During the period from January to November/2016 the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild mammals from the Zoological Garden of Rio de Janeiro (RioZoo) were evaluated. Stool samples of one hundred and thirty-three wild mammals, among these seventy one primates, twenty-two felids, five rodents, five procionids, four taiassuinids, four mustelids, three canids, three chiropterids, two camelids, two tapirids, two cervids, two proboscids, two hipopotamids, one otarid, one herpestid, one erinaceomorfid, two mirmecofagids, one dasypodoid, were processed using Gondon & Whitlock, Sheather and Baermann-Moraes techniques. Theprevalence of the positive animals to at least one specie of parasite was 16,5% (22/133) and the specific prevalence for each positive host group was: 100% (1/1) in dasipodids, 100% (1/1) in herpestids, 50% (1/2) in camelids, 21,1% (15/71) in primates, 20%(1/5) in procionids, 13,6% (3/22) in felids and 0% in the others groups (tapirids, canids, rodents, taiassuinids, cervids, proboscids, mustelids, hipopotamids, otarids, erinaceomorfids, mirmecofagids and chiropterids). Among the positive samples, eggs and larvae from Superfamily Rhabdiasoidea were observed in 36,4% (8/22), eggs from the Superfamily Ascaroidea in 31,8% (7/22), eggs from Superfamily Trichuroidea in 4,5% (1/22) and eggs from Superfamily Strongyloidea in 4,5% (1/22). The parasitism by pentastomids (subClass Pentastomida) presented prevalence of 4,5% (1/22) and acantocephals (Phylum Acanthocephala) of 4,5% (1/22).Prozoan (Kingdom Protozoa) cysts and trofozoits were not present.(AU)

Dioctophyme renale: prevalence and risk factors of parasitism in dogs of São Cristóvão district, Três Barras county, Santa Catarina State, Brazil / Dioctophyme renale: prevalência e fatores de risco de parasitismo em cães no distrito de São Cristóvão, Três Barras, Santa Catarina, Brasil

Dioctophyme renale is a nematode that can be found parasitizing the kidney, peritoneal cavity and, rarely, other organs of canids and mustelids. This disease has high occurrence in the municipality of Três Barras, state of Santa Catarina, thus making this an interesting area to study the epidemiological aspects of infection by D. renale in dogs. Among 197 dogs, 14.2% showed the parasite eggs in urine and 16.4% showed IgG antibodies anti-D. renale in serum samples according to the indirect ELISA method; among seropositive dogs, 15 (37.5%) animals did not show any parasite eggs in their urine. Parasitism was more frequent in females, and there was no finding of interference from age on parasitism. Factors such as water potential and presence of paratenic hosts in the studied region were reported by the owners of dogs and may have contributed to the occurrence of parasitism.(AU)

Dioctophyme renale é nematoda parasita de rins, cavidade peritoneal e, mais raramente, de outros órgãos de canídeos e mustelídeos. Esta parasitose tem ocorrência elevada no Município de Três Barras - SC, tornando essa área interessante para o estudo de aspectos epidemiológicos da infecção por D. renale em cães. De 197 cães examinados, 14,2% apresentaram ovos do parasita na urina e 16,4% apresentaram anticorpos IgG anti-D. renale no soro pelo método de ELISA indireto e, entre estes, 15 (37,5%) não apresentavam ovos do parasita sendo eliminados pela urina. O parasitismo foi mais frequente nas fêmeas, e não houve constatação de interferência da idade no parasitismo. Fatores como potencial hídrico e presença de hospedeiros paratênicos na região estudada foram relatados pelos tutores dos cães e podem contribuir para a ocorrência do parasitismo.(AU)

Manejo de filhotes de furão-pequeno (Galictis cuja) / Management of lesser grison (Galictis cuja) pups / Manejo de crías de hurón (Galictis cuja)

O furão-pequeno (Galictis cuja) é um mamífero pertencente à familia Mustelidae, que habita alguns países da América do Sul. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever as informações nutricionais e biométricas e os parâmetros clínicos de quatro filhotes de G. cuja que foram atendidos no Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) da Universidade Federal de Pelotas, RS. O acompanhamento nutricional e as avaliações biométricas e clínicas regulares tiveram o intuito de obter maior entendimento da espécie e da sus taxa de desenvolvimento, dada a falta de informações disponíveis na literatura. Todos os filhotes tiveram crescimento corporal gradativo desde a chegada até o momento da soltura, sendo que o manejo nutricional realizado se mostrou adequado para criação de G. cuja em cativeiro.

The lesser grison (Galictis cuja) is a mammal that belongs to the Mustelidae family and is found in a number of countries in South America. This article describes the nutritional and biometric data and clinical parameters for four G. cuja pups cared for at the Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) [Nucleus for the Rehabilitation of Wild Fauna and Wild Animal Evaluation Centre) of Universidade Federal de Pelotas, RS, Brazil. The pups were assessed clinically and subject to nutritional and biometric monitoring in order to learn more about the species and its development rate, given the lack of information available in the literature. All the pups demonstrated gradual body growth from arrival until the moment of release, and the nutritional management regime was shown to be appropriate for raising G. cuja in captivity.

El hurón pequeño (Galictis cuja) es un mamífero que pertenece a la familia Mustelidae, y que se distribuye por varios países de América del Sur. El objetivo del presente trabajo es describir el manejo nutricional , medidas biométricas y parámetros clínicos de cuatro crias de G. cuja atendidas en el Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) (Núcleo de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre y Centro de Selection de Animales Silvestres de realizados de manera regular con el objetivo de obtener mayores informaciones la Universidad Federal de Pelotas, RS, Brasil. Las mediciones y el manejo fueron de esta especie y, particularmente, sobre su tasa de desarrollo, considerando las escasas informaciones disponibles. Todas las crías tuvieron un crecimiento corporal animales en cautiverio. gradual hasta su liberación. El manejo nutricional fue adecuado para la cría de estos

Manejo de filhotes de furão-pequeno (Galictis cuja) / Management of lesser grison (Galictis cuja) pups / Manejo de crías de hurón (Galictis cuja)

O furão-pequeno (Galictis cuja) é um mamífero pertencente à familia Mustelidae, que habita alguns países da América do Sul. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever as informações nutricionais e biométricas e os parâmetros clínicos de quatro filhotes de G. cuja que foram atendidos no Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) da Universidade Federal de Pelotas, RS. O acompanhamento nutricional e as avaliações biométricas e clínicas regulares tiveram o intuito de obter maior entendimento da espécie e da sus taxa de desenvolvimento, dada a falta de informações disponíveis na literatura. Todos os filhotes tiveram crescimento corporal gradativo desde a chegada até o momento da soltura, sendo que o manejo nutricional realizado se mostrou adequado para criação de G. cuja em cativeiro.(AU)

The lesser grison (Galictis cuja) is a mammal that belongs to the Mustelidae family and is found in a number of countries in South America. This article describes the nutritional and biometric data and clinical parameters for four G. cuja pups cared for at the Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) [Nucleus for the Rehabilitation of Wild Fauna and Wild Animal Evaluation Centre) of Universidade Federal de Pelotas, RS, Brazil. The pups were assessed clinically and subject to nutritional and biometric monitoring in order to learn more about the species and its development rate, given the lack of information available in the literature. All the pups demonstrated gradual body growth from arrival until the moment of release, and the nutritional management regime was shown to be appropriate for raising G. cuja in captivity.(AU)

El hurón pequeño (Galictis cuja) es un mamífero que pertenece a la familia Mustelidae, y que se distribuye por varios países de América del Sur. El objetivo del presente trabajo es describir el manejo nutricional , medidas biométricas y parámetros clínicos de cuatro crias de G. cuja atendidas en el Núcleo de Reabilitação da Fauna Silvestre e Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Nurfs/Cetas) (Núcleo de Rehabilitación de Fauna Silvestre y Centro de Selection de Animales Silvestres de realizados de manera regular con el objetivo de obtener mayores informaciones la Universidad Federal de Pelotas, RS, Brasil. Las mediciones y el manejo fueron de esta especie y, particularmente, sobre su tasa de desarrollo, considerando las escasas informaciones disponibles. Todas las crías tuvieron un crecimiento corporal animales en cautiverio. gradual hasta su liberación. El manejo nutricional fue adecuado para la cría de estos(AU)

Occurrence and morphometrics of the brachioradialis muscle in wild carnivorans (Carnivora: Caniformia, Feliformia)

The brachioradialis is an important muscle that acts in the external rotation of the forearm (supination). However, its occurrence is controversial and little studied in the order Carnivora. Thus, this study investigates the occurrence and anatomo-functional arrangement of this muscle in wild carnivorans species. Fifty-eight thoracic limbs of specimens from species of Canidae, Procyonidae, Mustelidae and Felidae were dissected. Measurements of the length of the muscle (ML), the length of the forearm (FL), latero-medial width of the muscle (MW) and the lateral-medial diameter of the forearm (FD) were obtained to establish the ratios MW/FD and ML/FL in order to investigate the relative proportion of the muscle in relation to the forearm of each species. The brachioradialis muscle was identified in all species, although it was unilaterally or bilaterally absent in some canid individuals. The ratios demonstrated significant differences in the anatomical proportions among the families, with greater functional importance in the mustelids, procyonids, and felids because of a set of elaborate movements in the thoracic limb of representatives of these families when compared to canids.

Occurrence and morphometrics of the brachioradialis muscle in wild carnivorans (Carnivora: Caniformia, Feliformia)

The brachioradialis is an important muscle that acts in the external rotation of the forearm (supination). However, its occurrence is controversial and little studied in the order Carnivora. Thus, this study investigates the occurrence and anatomo-functional arrangement of this muscle in wild carnivorans species. Fifty-eight thoracic limbs of specimens from species of Canidae, Procyonidae, Mustelidae and Felidae were dissected. Measurements of the length of the muscle (ML), the length of the forearm (FL), latero-medial width of the muscle (MW) and the lateral-medial diameter of the forearm (FD) were obtained to establish the ratios MW/FD and ML/FL in order to investigate the relative proportion of the muscle in relation to the forearm of each species. The brachioradialis muscle was identified in all species, although it was unilaterally or bilaterally absent in some canid individuals. The ratios demonstrated significant differences in the anatomical proportions among the families, with greater functional importance in the mustelids, procyonids, and felids because of a set of elaborate movements in the thoracic limb of representatives of these families when compared to canids.(AU)

On the correct name for some subfamilies of Mustelidae (Mammalia, Carnivora)

Mustelids (Mustelidae) exhibit a wide morphological and ecological diversity, ranging from aquatic to semi arboreal and fossorial forms. It is the most diversity family in Carnivora, and this has promoted a great number of taxonomic arrangements for subfamilies, which can range from two to 15 depending on the author. The relatively recent use of molecular data has helped to elucidate the classification of mustelids, and eight subfamilies are currently recognized: Mustelinae, Galictinae, Helictidinae, Martinae, Melinae, Mellivorinae, Taxidiinae and Lutrinae. However, some of these subfamilies have nomenclatural problems, not receiving the oldest available name. The subfamily that includes martens (Martes, Charronia and Pekania), tayra (Eira) and wolverine (Gulo) has received the name of Martinae Wagner, 1841, but the oldest available name is Guloninae Gray, 1825. This problem also occurs for the subfamily that includes the grisons (Galictis), Patagonian weasel (Lyncodon), marbled polecat (Vormela) and striped weasels (Ictonyx and Poecilogale), which are known as Grisoninae Pocock, 1921, but the correct name for this group is Ictonychinae, Pocock, 1921. The subfamily that includes ferret badgers (Melogale) retains the name Helictidinae Gray, 1865, because its validity is not affected when the type-genus of the subfamily becomes a junior synonym of another genus. Furthermore, a list of the extant subfamilies of Mustelidae and their respective synonyms and included genera is provided.

On the correct name for some subfamilies of Mustelidae (Mammalia, Carnivora)

Mustelids (Mustelidae) exhibit a wide morphological and ecological diversity, ranging from aquatic to semi arboreal and fossorial forms. It is the most diversity family in Carnivora, and this has promoted a great number of taxonomic arrangements for subfamilies, which can range from two to 15 depending on the author. The relatively recent use of molecular data has helped to elucidate the classification of mustelids, and eight subfamilies are currently recognized: Mustelinae, Galictinae, Helictidinae, Martinae, Melinae, Mellivorinae, Taxidiinae and Lutrinae. However, some of these subfamilies have nomenclatural problems, not receiving the oldest available name. The subfamily that includes martens (Martes, Charronia and Pekania), tayra (Eira) and wolverine (Gulo) has received the name of Martinae Wagner, 1841, but the oldest available name is Guloninae Gray, 1825. This problem also occurs for the subfamily that includes the grisons (Galictis), Patagonian weasel (Lyncodon), marbled polecat (Vormela) and striped weasels (Ictonyx and Poecilogale), which are known as Grisoninae Pocock, 1921, but the correct name for this group is Ictonychinae, Pocock, 1921. The subfamily that includes ferret badgers (Melogale) retains the name Helictidinae Gray, 1865, because its validity is not affected when the type-genus of the subfamily becomes a junior synonym of another genus. Furthermore, a list of the extant subfamilies of Mustelidae and their respective synonyms and included genera is provided.(AU)

Galictis cuja (Mammalia): An update of current knowledge and geographic distribution / Galictis cuja (Mammalia): Actualización sobre su conocimiento y distribución geográfica

The lesser grison (Galictis cuja) is one of the least-known mustelids in the Neotropics, despite its broad range across South America. This study aimed to explore current knowledge of the distribution of the species to identify gaps in knowledge and anticipate its full geographic distribution. Eighty-nine articles have mentioned G. cuja since 1969, but only 13 focused on the species. We generated a detailed model of the species potential distribution that validated previous maps, but with improved detail, supporting previous southernmost records, and providing a means of identifying priority sites for conservation and management of the species.(AU)

El hurón menor (Galictis cuja) es uno de los mustélidos menos conocidos en el Neotrópico, a pesar de su amplia área de distribución a través de América del Sur. El objetivo de este estudio fue explorar la información actual de ocurrencias de la especie para identificar vacíos sobre su conocimiento y anticipar su distribución geográfica. Ochenta y nueve artículos han hecho referencia a G. cuja desde el año 1969, pero sólo 13 se enfocaron en la especie. Se generó un modelo detallado de la distribución potencial de la especie que validó mapas anteriores, pero con mayor detalle, apoyando previos registros australes, y proporcionando una herramienta para la identificación de sitios prioritarios para la conservación y manejo de la especie.(AU)

Galictis cuja (Mammalia): An update of current knowledge and geographic distribution / Galictis cuja (Mammalia): Actualización sobre su conocimiento y distribución geográfica

The lesser grison (Galictis cuja) is one of the least-known mustelids in the Neotropics, despite its broad range across South America. This study aimed to explore current knowledge of the distribution of the species to identify gaps in knowledge and anticipate its full geographic distribution. Eighty-nine articles have mentioned G. cuja since 1969, but only 13 focused on the species. We generated a detailed model of the species’ potential distribution that validated previous maps, but with improved detail, supporting previous southernmost records, and providing a means of identifying priority sites for conservation and management of the species.

El hurón menor (Galictis cuja) es uno de los mustélidos menos conocidos en el Neotrópico, a pesar de su amplia área de distribución a través de América del Sur. El objetivo de este estudio fue explorar la información actual de ocurrencias de la especie para identificar vacíos sobre su conocimiento y anticipar su distribución geográfica. Ochenta y nueve artículos han hecho referencia a G. cuja desde el año 1969, pero sólo 13 se enfocaron en la especie. Se generó un modelo detallado de la distribución potencial de la especie que validó mapas anteriores, pero con mayor detalle, apoyando previos registros australes, y proporcionando una herramienta para la identificación de sitios prioritarios para la conservación y manejo de la especie.

Cryptosporidium spp. (Tyzzer, 1907), Giardia sp. (Leeuwenhoek, 1681) e identificação de endoparasitos em mamíferos aquáticos no Brasil.

Abrigando cinco importantes biomas e o maior sistema fluvial do mundo, o Brasil tem a mais rica biota continental do planeta, o que rendeu o título de país megadiverso. Dentro deste contexto, encontram-se várias espécies de mamíferos aquáticos, as quais vem sofrendo constantemente com os efeitos antropogênicos e por vezes desencadeantes de diversos agentes parasitários. Entretanto, o conhecimento científico da fauna parasitária dos mamíferos aquáticos ainda é bastante limitado. Desta forma, este trabalho teve por objetivo diagnosticar infecções ocasionadas por Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia sp. e endoparasitos em mamíferos aquáticos no Brasil. Para isto foram realizadas coletas de 553 amostras de conteúdo fecal e do trato gastrointestinal de diversas espécies de cetáceos, sirênios (peixe-boi marinho e amazônico) e mustelídeos (lontra neotropical e ariranha), nas regiões Norte (Amapá, Amazonas, Pará e Rondônia) e Nordeste (Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Sergipe, Paraíba, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Norte). Entre os animais envolvidos foi possível obter amostras de espécimes mantidos em cativeiro e de vida livre, bem como, de espécies que habitavam os recursos fluviais, costeiros e oceânicos. Para a pesquisa de Cryptosporidium spp. as amostras fecais foram processadas pela técnica de Kinyoun. Ao que concerne à identificação dos cistos de Giardia sp. e ovos de helmintos, o material coletado foi submetido aos métodos de flutuação (Willis e Faust) e sedimentação (Hoffman), assim como à técnica do Flotac. Todas as amostras foram submetidas ao Teste de Imunofluorescência Direta. Entre os resultados obtidos destaca-se a infecção ocasionada pelo trematódeo digenético da família Opistothrematidae, espécie Pulmonicola cochleotrema, sendo a frequência da infecção de aproximadamente 7,95% (07/88) em peixes-bois marinhos. A presença de Cryptosporidium spp. foi constatada em cinco espécies, sendo estas, a Lontra longicaudis (15,28%), Pteronura brasiliensis (41,66%), Sotalia guianensis (9,67%), Trichechus inunguis (16,03%) e Trichechus manatus (13,79%). No que concerne à ocorrência de Giardia sp., este coccídio foi diagnosticado em um maior número de espécies, conforme pode ser constatado em L. longicaudis (9,23%), P. brasiliensis (29,16%), Kogia breviceps (100%), Kogia sima (25%), S. guianensis (9,67%), T. inunguis (3,81%) e T. manatus (10,34%). A identificação de Cryptosporidium spp. e Giardia sp. acometendo os mamíferos aquáticos, aliado à capacidade dos oocistos e cistos respectivamente destes protozoários permanecerem infectantes em condições ambientais por um longo período de tempo, amplia a possibilidade de transmissão destes agentes para outros organismos aquáticos, terrestres e populações humanas.

With five significant biomes and the largest river system in the World, Brazil has the richest continental biota on the planet, which has led to the country being classified as megadiverse. In Brazil, several species of aquatic mammals have been suffering almost constantly form the anthropogenic, and sometimes triggering, effects of different parasitic agents. However, our scientific knowledge of the parasitic fauna of aquatic mammals remains limited. Thus, the aim of the present study was to diagnose infections caused by Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia sp. and endoparasites among aquatic mammals in Brazil. To do this, 553 samples were collected from fecal content and the gastrointestinal tract of several species of cetaceans, sirenians (Antillean and Amazonian manatees) and mustelids (neotropical and giant otters) in the North (Amapá, Amazonas, Pará and Rondônia) and Northeast (Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Sergipe, Paraíba, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Norte) of Brazil. Samples were obtained from animals that were kept in captivity and others in the wild, including specimens that lived in rivers, coastlines and oceans. For Cryptosporidium spp., the fecal samples were processed by Kinyoun technique. Concerning the identification of Giardia sp. cysts and helminth eggs, the material collected was submitted to flotation (Willis and Faust) and sedimentation (Hoffman) methods, followed by the Flotac technique. All samples were subjected to the direct immunofluorescence test. In the results obtained, a notable infection was caused by the digenetic trematode of the Opistothrematidae family (Pulmonicola cochleotrema), with an infection prevalence of approximately 7.95% (07/88) among Antillean manatees. The presence of Cryptosporidium spp. was confirmed in five species: Lontra longicaudis (15.28%); Pteronura brasiliensis (41.66%); Sotalia guianensis (9.67%); Trichechus inunguis (16.03%) and Trichechus manatus (13.79%). Giardia sp. was diagnosed in the following species: L. longicaudis (9.23%); P. brasiliensis (29.16%); Kogia breviceps (100%); Kogia sima (25%); S. guianensis (9.67%); T. inunguis (3.81%) and T. manatus (10.34%). The identification of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia sp. in aquatic mammals, allied to the capacity of their oocysts and cysts, respectively, to remain infective in the environment for a long period of time, increases the possibility of the transmission of these agents to other aquatic and land organisms, as well as the human population.

Endocrine control of ovarian function in dogs and other carnivores

Ovarian function in dogs is minimally but successfully evolved and adapted for fertility, and represents a basic model for examining the more complex evolution of ovarian activity in other carnivores and mammals in general. Canids are monoestrous, polytocous, spontaneous ovulators with a spontaneous luteal function producing progesterone for the duration of a normal 2-month pregnancy and unaffected by hysterectomy. They have no acute luteolytic mechanism in the absence of pregnancy although PGF is luteolytic and participates in prepartum luteolysis. The cellular mechanisms of luteal and follicular tissues appear unlikely to differ meaningfully from those described in other species, with the spontaneously prolonged luteal function being similar to, and in some instances shorter than, the luteal lifespan of hysterectomized polyestrous species. All or nearly all female caniform carnivore species have photo-entrained annual life-cycles and annual or biennial reproduction. However, the domestic dog, a subspecies of the grey wolf, is an exception and non-seasonal; but, as an exception to the exception, the basenji dog like the dingo, another wolf subspecies, is seasonal, having its cycle in the autumn. The canine obligate anestrus lasts 2-10 months and is terminated by increased GnRH and LH pulsatility. The timing is under multiple regulatory inputs. These include recovery from progesterone effects at variable times after progesterone declines to nadir values; increased dopaminergic and/or decreased opioidergic tones and/or sensitivities, presumably under the influence of an endogenous circannual cycle assumed to persists despite the lack of photoresponsiveness; and, stimulatory pheromonal input from other females (as well as photoperiod in the case of Basenji). The only clear adaptations or unique attributes seen in dogs that are likely beyond what occurred in a more primitive ancestor are two. One, there is a pregnancy specific increase in prolactin that as a potent luteotrophin (as in rodents) acts to enhance progesterone production during pregnancy, which appears likely to be the case in all carnivores. And, two, the bitch has a fertile-mating window as wide as 11 days, and up to 8 days after ovulation. The latter involves the delayed post-ovulatory maturation of oocytes (also seen in foxes), prolonged post-maturation oocyte viability, and a uterine environment hospitable to sperm survival for up to 7 days during estrus. This relative simplicity contrasts to more complicated adaptive strategies like (1) delayed implantation seen in many caniform carnivores (including many mustelids, ursids, and phocid and otarid seals); (2) reflex, induced ovulation (as seen in many feliform carnivores); and (3) prolongation of post-implantation gestation via placental secretion of progesterone (some feliform, some artiodactyls, primates) or gonadotrophin (primates, equids). Also considered in the review are the endocrine mechanisms triggering the LH surge and estrus behavior in dogs, and factors involved in termination of obligate anestrus.

Endocrine control of ovarian function in dogs and other carnivores

Ovarian function in dogs is minimally but successfully evolved and adapted for fertility, and represents a basic model for examining the more complex evolution of ovarian activity in other carnivores and mammals in general. Canids are monoestrous, polytocous, spontaneous ovulators with a spontaneous luteal function producing progesterone for the duration of a normal 2-month pregnancy and unaffected by hysterectomy. They have no acute luteolytic mechanism in the absence of pregnancy although PGF is luteolytic and participates in prepartum luteolysis. The cellular mechanisms of luteal and follicular tissues appear unlikely to differ meaningfully from those described in other species, with the spontaneously prolonged luteal function being similar to, and in some instances shorter than, the luteal lifespan of hysterectomized polyestrous species. All or nearly all female caniform carnivore species have photo-entrained annual life-cycles and annual or biennial reproduction. However, the domestic dog, a subspecies of the grey wolf, is an exception and non-seasonal; but, as an exception to the exception, the basenji dog like the dingo, another wolf subspecies, is seasonal, having its cycle in the autumn. The canine obligate anestrus lasts 2-10 months and is terminated by increased GnRH and LH pulsatility. The timing is under multiple regulatory inputs. These include recovery from progesterone effects at variable times after progesterone declines to nadir values; increased dopaminergic and/or decreased opioidergic tones and/or sensitivities, presumably under the influence of an endogenous circannual cycle assumed to persists despite the lack of photoresponsiveness; and, stimulatory pheromonal input from other females (as well as photoperiod in the case of Basenji). The only clear adaptations or unique attributes seen in dogs that are likely beyond what occurred in a more primitive ancestor are two. One, there is a pregnancy specific increase in prolactin that as a potent luteotrophin (as in rodents) acts to enhance progesterone production during pregnancy, which appears likely to be the case in all carnivores. And, two, the bitch has a fertile-mating window as wide as 11 days, and up to 8 days after ovulation. The latter involves the delayed post-ovulatory maturation of oocytes (also seen in foxes), prolonged post-maturation oocyte viability, and a uterine environment hospitable to sperm survival for up to 7 days during estrus. This relative simplicity contrasts to more complicated adaptive strategies like (1) delayed implantation seen in many caniform carnivores (including many mustelids, ursids, and phocid and otarid seals); (2) reflex, induced ovulation (as seen in many feliform carnivores); and (3) prolongation of post-implantation gestation via placental secretion of progesterone (some feliform, some artiodactyls, primates) or gonadotrophin (primates, equids). Also considered in the review are the endocrine mechanisms triggering the LH surge and estrus behavior in dogs, and factors involved in termination of obligate anestrus.(AU)

Anesthesiology, hematology and serum chemistry of the giant otter, Pteronura brasiliensis (Carnivora, Mustelidae) / Anestesiologia, hematologia e bioquímica sangüínea de ariranha, Pteronura brasiliensis (Carnivora, Mustelidae) / Anestesiología, hematología y bioquímica sanguínea de ariranha, Pteronura brasiliensis (Carnivora, Mustelidae)

There are very few hematological values of giant otters found in the literature and despite that new anesthetic drugs became available in recent years, no information has been published regarding their use in this endangered species. Therefore, to fulfill these gaps, about 15 ml of blood were collected from the jugular or femoral veins of six captive giant otters between March-July/1995 and September-November/2004. To collect the blood, the animals were anesthetized either using 5% ketamine hydrochloride (Ketalar®-Parke- Davis) combined with xylazine (Rompun®-Bayer) in a mean dosage of 8.78 ± 0.91 mg/kg and 1.92 ± 0.15 mg/kg, respectively (n=4), or using tiletamine hydrochloride and zolazepam hydrochloride (Zoletil 50® - Virbac) in a mean dosage of 1.93 ± 0.57 mg/kg, followed by an injection of atropine sulfate 1 % (Atropina®- Farmagrícola S.A.) in a mean dosage of 0.09 ± 0.02 mg/kg (n=7). The depth and time of immobilization provided by both associations allowed the accomplishment of all the veterinary procedures with satisfactory safety. The mean rectal temperature recorded during immobilization was 39.16 ± 0.59oC (n=8). The hemoglobin and packed cell volume (PCV) mean values were 16.36 ± 2.81 g/dl and 50.66 ± 7.77 %, respectively. The WBC, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils values were similar to those reported for other otter species. Similarly, the blood chemistry values were close to those found in other mustelids. Considering that all animals used in this study were clinically healthy, the hematologic and blood chemistry values here presented provide a baseline for recognition of abnormal blood values in giant otters.(AU)

Existem poucos dados hematológicos de ariranhas na literatura, e embora novas drogas anestésicas se tenham tornado disponíveis nos últimos anos, inexiste informação publicada acerca de seus usos nesta espécie. Com o intuito de preencher estas lacunas, cerca de 15ml de sangue foram colhidos da veia jugular ou femoral de seis ariranhas cativas entre março-julho/1995 e setembro-novembro/ 2004. Para colher o sangue, as ariranhas foram anestesiadas utilizando um dos seguintes protocolos: 5% cloridrato de cetamina (Ketalar®-Parke-Davis) em associação com xilazina (Rompun®-Bayer) em dosagens médias de 8,78 ± 0,91 mg/kg e 1,92 ± 0,15 mg/kg, respectivamente (n=4), ou usando cloridrato de tiletamina e cloridrato de zolazepam (Zoletil 50® - Virbac) em dosagem média de 1,93 ± 0,57 mg/kg, seguida por uma injeção de sulfato de atropina 1 % (Atropina® - Farmagrícola S.A.) em dosagem média de 0,09 ± 0,02 mg/kg (n=7). A profundidade e o tempo de anestesia proporcionados pelas duas associações de drogas permitiram que todos os procedimentos veterinários fossem realizados com segurança. A temperatura retal registrada durante a imobilização teve uma média de 39,16 ± 0,59oC (n=8). As médias de hemoglobina e hematócrito foram 16,36 ± 2,81 g/dl e 50,66 ± 7,77 %, respectivamente. Os valores de leucócitos, linfócitos, monócitos e eosinófilos foram similares aos observados para outras espécies de lontras. Da mesma forma,os valores da bioquímica sérica foram semelhantes aos encontrados para outros mustelídeos. Considerando que os animais utilizados neste estudo estavam clinicamente saudáveis, os valores hematológicos e bioquímicos apresentados podem servir de base para reconhecer valores anormais em ariranhas.(AU)

Existen pocos datos hematológicos de ariranhas (Pteronura brasiliensis) en la literatura, aunque nuevas drogas anestésicas se hicieron disponibles en los últimos años, inexiste información publicada acerca de sus usos en esta especie. Con la intención de rellenar estos vacíos, alrededor de 15ml de sangre fueron colectados de la vena yugular o femoral de seis ariranhas cautivas entre marzo-julio/1995 y septiembre-noviembre/2004. Para colectar la sangre, las ariranhas fueron anestesiadas utilizando uno de los siguientes protocolos: 5% clorhidrato de cetamina (Ketala® -Parke-Davis) en asociación con xilazina (Rompun®-Bayer) en dosis medianas de 8,78 ± 0,91 mg/kg y 1,92±0,15 mg/kg, respectivamente (n=4), ousando clorhidrato de tiletamina y clorhidrato de zolazepam (Zoletil® 50 Virbac) en dosis mediana de 1,93 ± 0,57 mg/kg, seguida por una inyección de sulfato de atropina 1% (Atropina® -Farmagrícola S.A.) en dosis mediana de 0,09± 0,02 mg/ kg (n=7). La profundidad y el tiempo de anestesia proporcionados por las dos asociaciones de drogas permitieron que todos los procedimientos veterinarios fuesen realizados con seguridad. La temperatura rectal registrada durante la inmovilización tuvo una media de 39,16 ± 2,81 g/dl y 50,66 ± 7,77%, respectivamente. Los valores de leucocitos, linfocitos, monocitos yeosinófilos fueron similares a los observados para otras especies de nutrias. De la misma forma, los valores de bioquímica sérica fueron semejantes a los encontrados para otros mustelideos. Considerando que los animales utilizados en este estudio estaban clínicamente saludables, los valores hematológicos y bioquímicos presentados pueden servir de base para reconocer valores anormales en ariranhas.(AU)

Criação artificial de filhotes de lontra neotropical (Lontra longicaudis) em cativeiro – relato de dois casos / Hand rearing neotropical river otter (Lontra longicaudis) pups in captivity – a report of two cases / Cría artificial de cachorros de nutria neotropical (Lontra longicaudis) en cautiverio – relato de dos casos

A lontra neotropical é um mamífero pertencente à Ordem Carnivora e à família Mustelidae. Entre as principais ameaças a essa espécie estão às ações antrópicas, como desmatamento, contaminação de habitat, caça e atropelamentos. Consequentemente, o aparecimento de filhotes em centros de triagem e zoológicos é cada vez mais frequente. Em muitos desses casos, a criação artificial é a única alternativa para a sua sobrevivência. Os filhotes de lontras podem desenvolver problemas de saúde subitamente, portanto, qualquer alteração comportamental deve ser notada. Frequentemente se observam distúrbios digestivos em filhotes criados artificialmente, que podem estar associados a fatores como fórmulas lácteas inapropriadas, frequência das refeições, excesso de alimento e mudanças bruscas na dieta. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o protocolo de criação artificial de dois filhotes de lontra.

he neotropical river otter is a mammal that belongs to the order Carnivora, family Mustelidae. Anthropic actions such as habitat loss and degradation, environmental contaminants, hunting and road kills are among the main threats to this species. As a consequence, zoos and rehabilitation centers are receiving pups increasingly often. In most cases, hand rearing is the only chance of survival that these animals have. Because otter pups can develop sudden health problems, any behavioral changes should be noticed. Digestive disturbances are frequently observed in hand-reared pups, which can be associated with inappropriate formulas, feeding frequency, excessive feeding and sudden changes in the diet. The goal of this work is to report a hand-rearing protocol used successfully in two river otter pups.

La nutria neotropical es un mamífero que pertenece al Orden Carnívora y a la familia Mustelidae. Entre las principales amenazas a esta especie se cuentan las acciones antrópicas, como la deforestación, la contaminación del hábitat, la caza y los atropellamientos. En consecuencia a estas circunstancias, es cada vez mas frecuente la llegada de cachorros en los centros de rehabilitación y zoológicos. En muchos de estos casos, la cría artificial es la única alternativa para su sobrevivencia. Los cachorros de nutrias pueden desarrollar problemas súbitos de salud y, por lo tanto, se debe estar atento a cualquier alteración de comportamiento. Frecuentemente se observan alteraciones digestivas en cachorros criados artificialmente, que pueden asociarse a factores como el uso de fórmulas lácteas inadecuadas, frecuencia de las comidas, exceso de alimento y cambios súbitos en la dieta. El objetivo de este trabajo es relatar el protocolo de cría artificial de dos cachorros de nutria.

Criação artificial de filhotes de lontra neotropical (Lontra longicaudis) em cativeiro relato de dois casos / Hand rearing neotropical river otter (Lontra longicaudis) pups in captivity a report of two cases / Cría artificial de cachorros de nutria neotropical (Lontra longicaudis) en cautiverio relato de dos casos

A lontra neotropical é um mamífero pertencente à Ordem Carnivora e à família Mustelidae. Entre as principais ameaças a essa espécie estão às ações antrópicas, como desmatamento, contaminação de habitat, caça e atropelamentos. Consequentemente, o aparecimento de filhotes em centros de triagem e zoológicos é cada vez mais frequente. Em muitos desses casos, a criação artificial é a única alternativa para a sua sobrevivência. Os filhotes de lontras podem desenvolver problemas de saúde subitamente, portanto, qualquer alteração comportamental deve ser notada. Frequentemente se observam distúrbios digestivos em filhotes criados artificialmente, que podem estar associados a fatores como fórmulas lácteas inapropriadas, frequência das refeições, excesso de alimento e mudanças bruscas na dieta. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o protocolo de criação artificial de dois filhotes de lontra.(AU)

he neotropical river otter is a mammal that belongs to the order Carnivora, family Mustelidae. Anthropic actions such as habitat loss and degradation, environmental contaminants, hunting and road kills are among the main threats to this species. As a consequence, zoos and rehabilitation centers are receiving pups increasingly often. In most cases, hand rearing is the only chance of survival that these animals have. Because otter pups can develop sudden health problems, any behavioral changes should be noticed. Digestive disturbances are frequently observed in hand-reared pups, which can be associated with inappropriate formulas, feeding frequency, excessive feeding and sudden changes in the diet. The goal of this work is to report a hand-rearing protocol used successfully in two river otter pups.(AU)

La nutria neotropical es un mamífero que pertenece al Orden Carnívora y a la familia Mustelidae. Entre las principales amenazas a esta especie se cuentan las acciones antrópicas, como la deforestación, la contaminación del hábitat, la caza y los atropellamientos. En consecuencia a estas circunstancias, es cada vez mas frecuente la llegada de cachorros en los centros de rehabilitación y zoológicos. En muchos de estos casos, la cría artificial es la única alternativa para su sobrevivencia. Los cachorros de nutrias pueden desarrollar problemas súbitos de salud y, por lo tanto, se debe estar atento a cualquier alteración de comportamiento. Frecuentemente se observan alteraciones digestivas en cachorros criados artificialmente, que pueden asociarse a factores como el uso de fórmulas lácteas inadecuadas, frecuencia de las comidas, exceso de alimento y cambios súbitos en la dieta. El objetivo de este trabajo es relatar el protocolo de cría artificial de dos cachorros de nutria.(AU)