First report on seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in zoo animals in Algeria.

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the world's most widespread polyxenic protozoan parasites that affect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. This survey aims to study, for the first time in Algeria, the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in zoo animals. The study included eight animal species of which 54 serum samples were collected from 30 Australian goats (Capra hircus), four bulls (Bos taurus), one dromedary (Camelus dromedarius), three cuffed sheep (Ammotragus lervia), seven donkeys (Equus asinus), one pony (Equus ferus), four bearded horses (Equus ferus caballus) and four rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The presence of antibodies to T. gondii was determined using the ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect Multispecies ELISA kit (IDVet, Grabels, France). A total of 8/54 (14.8%) samples were seropositive, including 5/28 (17.9%) males and 3/26 (11.5%) females. The seroprevalence was 6.7%, 50%, 25% and 75% in Capra hircus, Bos Taurus, Equus ferus caballus, and Oryctolagus cuniculus, respectively. No cases were observed in Camelus dromedarius, Ammotragus lervia, Equus asinus, and Equus ferus. This study indicates, for the first time in Algeria, the seroprevalence of T. gondii in zoo animals.

Diversity of gastrointestinal parasites and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis in free-living and captive howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) in southern Brazil.

Non-human primates (NHPs) are the group that most share infectious agents with humans due to their close taxonomic relationship. The southern brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba clamitans) are endemic primates from Brazil and Argentina's Atlantic Forest. This study aimed to investigate the presence of intestinal parasites in free-living (FL) and captive (CA) southern brown howler monkeys. Thirty-nine stool samples were collected in two areas in southern Brazil, 15 FL and 24 CA. Stool sediments obtained by centrifugal sedimentation technique were used for microscopic analysis and direct immunofluorescence assay and evaluated by molecular analysis through amplification and sequencing of TPI fragments. Intestinal parasites Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Trypanoxyuris minutus were detected at coproparasitological analysis. This is the first report of the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in free-living howlers. The molecular characterization of G. duodenalis isolates indicated assemblage B for the first time found in free-living A. guariba clamitans. The high prevalence of G. duodenalis transmission in CA howler monkeys can be explained by direct contact with humans and frequent soil contact. The presence of a potentially zoonotic assemblage in these animals indicates that the process of fragmentation and cohabitation with humans and livestock affects the wildlife, thus indicating a need for eco-health measures.

Prevalence and parasite burden of oocysts in captive and free-living saffron finches, Sicalis flaveola.

The saffron finch, Sicalis flaveola, a passerine bird, can be found in nearly all Brazilian territory and is also raised in captivity. The objective of this work was to determine the prevalence and load of oocysts in captive saffron finches in the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, state of Rio de Janeiro and in free-living saffron finches in the municipality of Eugenopolis, state of Minas Gerais. In this analysis, 30 captive and 30 wild birds were assessed. Feces eliminated in a 24-hour period were collected and weighed to determine the number of oocysts per gram of feces (OoPG). Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel and GraphPad Prism Software. All birds in the present study were positive for one or more species of coccidia. Captive birds had a mean total oocyst count higher than that of wild birds. No significant differences in OoPG counts were observed when comparing males and females or captive and wild birds. We can conclude that due to the fact that birds both eat and defecate in their cages, it is essential to keep them as clean as possible, since captive birds have a higher prevalence of coccidia.

Gastrointestinal and respiratory parasites in captive mammals at Rabat zoo, with the first record of Capillaria spp. in the Fennec fox (Vulpes zerda).

The aim of the present study was to broaden the understanding of parasitism in captive wild mammals in Morocco. For this purpose, an investigation on gastrointestinal and respiratory parasites in African mammals from Rabat Zoo was carried out. A total of 47 fecal samples were collected from 30 species from November 2021 to March 2022 and examined macroscopically and microscopically. Parasites were detected in 21 species at a prevalence of 70%, with a parasite positivity rate of 89% in artiodactyls, 50% in perissodactyls, 67% in both carnivores and primates. No parasitic infection was detected in proboscideans. The most frequent infection was by nematodes with a percentage of 50%, followed by both protozoa and mixed infection with a prevalence of 10%. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that parasite prevalence remains high, even in enclosed spaces like zoos. Therefore, in order to ensure animal welfare and staff safety, sanitary measures should be implemented in such facilities, including routine diagnostic tests followed by appropriate treatment.

Gastrointestinal parasites in non-human primates in zoological institutions in France.

Gastrointestinal parasites are frequently encountered in captive non-human primates and infestation may have severe consequences on the animal's health status. Most of these parasites are also transmissible to humans. Nevertheless, little is known about the prevalence and monitoring modalities of gastrointestinal parasitoses in non-human primates housed in zoological institutions and there are currently no guidelines available for their detection and identification. The objective of this study was to identify the main gastrointestinal parasites that may be observed in non-human primates in zoological institutions in France, as well as to develop a decision-making tree to ease their identification. Twenty-four zoological institutions were surveyed, most of which performed fecal examinations routinely on their non-human primates (91.7%). Most institutions used flotation enrichment protocols to detect gastrointestinal parasites (95.2%) and nematodes were the most frequently encountered parasites (73.0%). A total of 252 fecal samples corresponding to 68 different non-human primate species from these institutions were analyzed using sedimentation and flotation protocols. Protozoa (47.3%) were found to be more frequent than helminths (15.6%). Furthermore, old-world monkeys exhibited a higher parasite load (93.6%) than any other non-human primate species category. Compiled data from fecal examinations allowed the development of a decision-making tree and diagnostic atlas to facilitate parasite diagnosis in captive non-human primates.

Title: Parasites gastro-intestinaux chez les primates non-humains dans les parcs zoologiques français. Abstract: Les parasites gastro-intestinaux sont fréquemment rencontrés chez les primates non-humains en captivité et peuvent avoir des conséquences graves sur l'état de santé de l'animal. La plupart sont également transmissibles à Homme. Néanmoins, on sait peu de choses sur la prévalence et les modalités de surveillance des parasitoses gastro-intestinales chez les primates non-humains hébergés dans des institutions zoologiques et il n'existe actuellement aucune ligne directrice disponible pour leur détection et leur identification. L'objectif de cette étude était d'identifier les principaux parasites gastro-intestinaux pouvant être observés chez les primates non-humains dans les institutions zoologiques françaises, ainsi que de développer un arbre décisionnel pour faciliter leur identification. Vingt-quatre institutions zoologiques françaises ont été interrogées : la plupart (91,7 %) effectuaient des examens fécaux en routine sur leurs primates non-humains. La plupart des établissements utilisaient des protocoles d'enrichissement par flottation pour détecter les parasites gastro-intestinaux (95,2 %) et les nématodes étaient les parasites les plus fréquemment rencontrés (73,0 %). Un total de 252 échantillons fécaux correspondant à 68 espèces différentes de primates non-humains provenant de ces institutions ont été analysés à l'aide de protocoles de sédimentation et de flottation. Les protozoaires (47,3 %) étaient plus fréquents que les helminthes (15,6 %). De plus, les singes de l'ancien monde présentaient une charge parasitaire plus élevée (93,6 %) que toute autre catégorie d'espèces de primates non-humains. Les données compilées des examens fécaux ont permis le développement d'un arbre décisionnel et d'un atlas diagnostique pour faciliter le diagnostic des parasites chez les primates non-humains en captivité.

Prevalence and multilocus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in zoo animals in three cities in China.

Giardia duodenalis is a flagellated parasitic microorganism that parasitizes in the intestines of humans and animals. Although asymptomatic infections commonly exist in both humans and animals, some enteric symptoms have been reported in immunocompromised individuals, posing a threat to public health. Children could be infected with G. duodenalis through an environment contaminated by infective animals. Thus, the investigation of the prevalence and genotypes of G. duodenalis in zoo animals is important. In this study, 672 fecal samples of 113 species of animals, including non-human primates, artiodactyla, perissodactyla, proboscidian, marsupial, birds, carnivora, and rodents, were collected from three zoos in Hangzhou city, Dalian city, and Suzhou city in China. The samples were screened for the positivity of G. duodenalis by nested PCR based on the ß-giardin (bg), triosephosphate isomerase (tpi), and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) gene loci. The overall G. duodenalis prevalence was 10.6% (71/672). The prevalence in non-human primates, artiodactyla, perissodactyla, proboscidian, marsupial, birds, carnivora, and rodent was 6.9% (10/144), 9.0% (12/133), 17.1% (6/35), 0% (0/6), 8.7% (2/23), 13.3% (28/211), 6.7% (7/105), and 40.0% (6/15), respectively. The region and category were considered risk factors for G. duodenalis infection in zoo animals (p < 0.001). Additionally, four genotypes of G. duodenalis were identified in zoo animals, including assemblage E (n = 46), assemblage A (n = 18), assemblage B (n = 6), and assemblage D (n = 1). The assemblages A, B, D, and E are also genotypes observed in humans and other animals. Among the sequences obtained in our study, one multilocus genotype (MLG) of the sub-assemblage AI was observed within assemblage A. Furthermore, three MLGs were detected within assemblage B. These findings reveal G. duodenalis genetic variability in zoo animals in three cities in China and suggest that zoo animals could be a potential source of human infection with G. duodenalis.

Serological prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in Zoo Mammals in Chile.

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic cosmopolitan protozoan that causes a high mortality rate among zoo mammals such as New World primates, meerkats, marsupials and Pallas' cat. It has been recently reported in Chile, mainly among wild populations, but also as the cause of death of a kangaroo and a mara. However, there has not been a T. gondii report at a Zoo population level in Chile in the last 35 years. The aim of the study was to estimate the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in mammals housed in a zoo located in the Metropolitan Region of Chile between 2011 and 2018. In this study, we analyzed 350 samples, from 324 animals, belonging to 57 species of carnivores, non-human primates, macropodids, ungulates and rodents to detect the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Additionally, 20 animals were longitudinally sampled to evaluate intra-zoo infection. Using a commercial indirect Enzyme-Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) test, we detected T. gondii antibodies in 72 (22.2 %) samples. The overall seroprevalence estimates were 48.4 % in felines, 22.9 % in non-feline carnivores, 21.1 % in ungulates and 15.0 % in non-human primates. There were no positive samples from rodents or marsupials. Of animals sampled longitudinally, only a culpeo fox (Lycalopex cualpaeus) became seropositive along the study indicating exposition inside the facility. T. gondii seroprevalence differed significantly in taxonomic groups (p = 0.003), felines are statistically different from non-feline carnivores (NFC) (p = 0.040), ungulate (p = 0.027) and non-human primates (NHP) (p = 0.009). Annual prevalence comparison was performed showing no statistical difference (p = 0.941). A multivariable logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effect of taxonomic groups, proximity to water sources, diet, sex and type of housing on seropositivity. Only taxonomic group was statistically significant, indicating that NFC (OR = 0.35; 95 % CI = 0.15 - 0.83; p = 0.017), ungulates (OR = 0.30; 95 % CI = 0.13 - 0.69; p = 0.005), and NHP (OR = 0.25; 95 % CI = 0.09 - 0.72; p = 0.010) have lower risk of positivity to T. gondii compared to felines. Additionally, a black-faced spider monkey (Ateles chamek) and a siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus) were seropositive, being the first description of T. gondii infection in these species worldwide. As seen in previous studies, the widespread presence and exposure of T. gondii in zoo mammals was confirmed, and there may be contact with the agent and transmission within the zoo, which was confirmed by one animal became seropositive over the time. This fact could be a health problem for animals susceptible to fatal toxoplasmosis.

Investigation of giardiasis in captive animals in zoological gardens with strain typing of assemblages in China.

Giardia duodenalis is a common zoonotic intestinal pathogen. It has been increasingly reported in humans and animals; however, genotyping information for G. duodenalis in captive animals is still limited. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and multilocus genotyping of G. duodenalis in captive animals in zoological gardens in Shanghai, China. A total of 678 fresh fecal samples were randomly collected from captive animals including non-human primates (NHPs) (n = 190), herbivores (n = 190), carnivores (n = 151), birds (n = 138) and reptiles (n = 9) in a zoo and were examined for the presence of G. duodenalis using nested polymerase chain reaction (nested PCR). All G. duodenalis positive samples were assayed with PCR followed by sequencing at ß-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) genes. In this study, 42 specimens (6.2%) were tested G. duodenalis-positive of the 678 fecal samples examined based on a single locus. A total of 30 (4.4%), 30 (4.4%) and 22 (3.2%) specimens were successfully amplified and sequenced at gdh, tpi and bg loci, respectively. Assemblages A and B were identified with assemblage B dominating in NHPs. Sequence analysis demonstrated that one, two and five new isolates were identified at bg, gdh and tpi loci. DNA sequences and new assemblage-subtypes of zoonotic G. duodenalis assemblages A and B were identified in the current study. Our data indicate the occurrence and molecular diversity of G. duodenalis and the potential zoonotic transmission in captive animals in China.

Blood-feeding ecology of mosquitoes in two zoological gardens in the United Kingdom.

BACKGROUND: Zoological gardens contain unique configurations of exotic and endemic animals and plants that create a diverse range of developing sites and potential sources of blood meals for local mosquitoes. This may imply unusual interspecific pathogen transmission risks involving zoo vertebrates, like avian malaria to captive penguins. Understanding mosquito ecology and host feeding patterns is necessary to improve mosquito control and disease prevention measures in these environments. METHODS: Mosquito sampling took place in Chester Zoo for 3 years (2017, 2018, and 2019) and for 1 year in Flamingo Land (2017) using different trapping methods. Blood-fed mosquitoes were identified and their blood meal was amplified by PCR, sequenced, and blasted for host species identification. RESULTS: In total, 640 blood-fed mosquitoes were collected [Culex pipiens (n = 497), Culiseta annulata (n = 81), Anopheles maculipennis s.l. (n = 7), An. claviger (n = 1), and unidentifiable (n = 55)]. Successful identification of the host species was achieved from 159 blood-fed mosquitoes. Mosquitoes fed on birds (n = 74), non-human mammals (n = 20), and humans (n = 71). There were mixed blood meals from two hosts (n = 6). The proportions of blood-fed mosquitoes varied across sampling seasons and sites within the zoos. The use of resting traps and aspiration of vegetation were more efficient techniques for capturing blood-fed mosquitoes than traps for host-seeking or gravid mosquitoes. By relating the locations of zoo vertebrates to where fed mosquitoes were trapped, the minimum travelling distances were calculated (13.7 to 366.7 m). Temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, proximity to zoo vertebrate exhibits, and vegetation level were found to be significantly associated with the proportion of captured blood-fed mosquitoes by generalized linear modelling. CONCLUSIONS: Mosquito feeding behaviour in zoos is mainly influenced by time, location (sampling area), temperature, and host availability, which highlights the value of mosquito monitoring in complex settings to plan control strategies and potentially reduce inherent disease transmission risks for humans and threatened zoo vertebrates.

Dioctophymosis in a free-ranging maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus): clinical-therapeutic, ultrasonographic and pathological aspects - case report / [Dioctofimose em um lobo guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus) de vida livre: aspectos clínico-terapêuticos, ultrassonográficos e patológicos - relato de caso]

Dioctophymosis is the disease caused by Dioctophyma renale, a large nematode, popularly known as giant kidney worm, and whose definitive hosts are the domestic dog and many wild mammal species. There are some reports of maned wolf parasitism by D. renale, however, in most cases the reports are restricted to the finding of the parasite during necropsy, without clinical assessment. The present report aimed to describe the clinical-therapeutic, ultrasonographic and pathological aspects of D. renale parasitism in a free-ranging maned wolf, emphasizing the treatment with an association of doramectin, praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, and febantel that resulted in complete elimination of the parasite.(AU)

A dioctofimose é a doença causada pelo Dioctophyma renale, um nemátodo grande, popularmente chamado de verme gigante do rim e que tem como hospedeiro definitivo o cão doméstico e inúmeras espécies de mamíferos silvestres. Existem alguns relatos do parasitismo do lobo-guará por D. renale, contudo, na maioria das vezes, os relatos se restringem apenas ao achado do parasita durante a necropsia, sem a correlação clínica. O presente relato objetiva descrever os aspectos clínico-terapêuticos, ultrassonográficos e patológicos do parasitismo por D. renale em um lobo-guará de vida livre, enfatizando o tratamento com uma associação de doramectina, praziquantel, pamoato de pirantel e febantel, o que resultou na eliminação completa do parasita.(AU)

First identification and molecular subtyping of Blastocystis sp. in zoo animals in southwestern China.

BACKGROUND: Blastocystis sp. is an anaerobic protozoan that parasitizes many animal hosts and the human gastrointestinal tract, and its pathogenicity is controversial. Captive wildlife may be potential reservoirs for human infection with Blastocystis sp. The present study was performed to investigate the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in zoo animals in Sichuan Province, southwestern China. METHODS: A total of 420 fresh fecal samples were collected from 54 captive wildlife species in four zoos in southwestern China between June 2017 and September 2019. The prevalence and subtype (ST) genetic characteristics of Blastocystis sp. were determined by PCR amplification of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene and phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS: Overall, 15.7% (66/420) of the animal samples and 20.7% (14/54) of the species tested were shown to be infected with Blastocystis sp. The highest prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was found in Panzhihua Zoo (24.3%), which was significantly higher than that in Chengdu Zoo (6.9%), and Xichang Zoo (2.9%) (P < 0.05). There are also significant differences in the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. among different species (P < 0.05), and the highest of Blastocystis sp. prevalence was observed in white-cheeked gibbon, black great squirrel, and red giant flying squirrel (100%). Subtype analysis of Blastocystis sp. revealed nine subtypes, including six zoonotic STs (ST1-5, and ST8) and three animal-specific STs (ST10, ST14, and ST17), with ST17 as the predominant subtype (26/66) in Blastocystis sp.-positive isolates. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first report on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. among captive wildlife in zoos in southwestern China. This study highlights that these animals may serve as reservoirs for human Blastocystis sp. infections.

Endoparasites in group of wild animals raised in captivity / Endoparasitas em plantel de animais silvestres criados em cativeiro

Free-living wild animals can host a wide variety of endoparasites. When subjected to conditions of captivity, these animals can go through stressful situations and develop parasites. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify parasitic infection in wild mammals, birds, and reptiles kept at the "Universidade de Caxias do Sul" Zoo, in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. The population studied was based on 76 animals, divided into 50% (38/76) birds, 35.53% (27/76) mammals, and 14.47% (11/76) reptiles distributed in 33 different enclosures. Fecal samples were collected from the enclosures and analyzed in triplicate, using the centrifugal-flotation method with a zinc sulfate solution. Samples from the enclosures 31, 32, 33, (where snakes are located), and 15 (animal death), were not analyzed in triplicate, so the total number of analyses was 91 samples. The results showed that 41.76% (38/91) of the samples were positive for at least one class of endoparasites, such as Nematoda, Cestoda, or Coccidia. The positive samples showed the presence of at least one or more parasites from orders Strongylida (34.21%), Enoplida and Strongylida (23.68%), Enoplida only (23.68%), Cyclophyllidea and Oxyurida (5.26%), Ascaridida only (5.26%), Enoplida, Strongylida, and Ascaridida (5.26%), and Enoplida and Eucoccidiorida (2.63%). Considering the positive samples, 55.26% were collected from birds, 39.47% from mammals, and 5.27% from reptiles. Capillaria sp. eggs were the main structure found in birds, and eggs from the order Strongylida were the most found in samples from mammals. This study showed the order Strongylida as the most frequent parasite found in 63.16% of the total samples, established either in isolated or mixed infestations. Also, mammals and birds were those with a greater quantity of positive samples for endoparasites. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of carrying out research assessing the gastrointestinal parasitic fauna in wild animals, so one can determine the conditions under which these parasites become pathogenic to wild animals raised in captivity.(AU)

Os animais silvestres de vida livre podem albergar uma grande variedade de endoparasitas. Esses animais, quando submetidos a condições de cativeiro podem passar por situações de estresse e desenvolver parasitoses. Neste sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar a infecção parasitária em mamíferos, aves e répteis silvestres mantidos no Zoológico da Universidade de Caxias do Sul, no Rio Grande do Sul/Brasil. A população estudada foi de 76 animais, nos quais 50% (38/76) eram aves, 35,53% (27/76) mamíferos e 14,47% (11/76) répteis, distribuídos em 33 recintos diferentes. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas dos recintos e analisadas em triplicata pelo método de centrífugo-flutuação com solução de Sulfato de Zinco. Como não foi possível analisar em triplicata o material dos recintos 31, 32, 33 os quais alojam as serpentes e o recinto 15 pois o animal veio a óbito, o total de análises foi de 91 amostras. Os resultados demonstraram que 41,76% (38/91) das amostras foram positivas para, pelo menos, um endoparasita da classe Nematoda, Cestoda ou Coccidia. As amostras positivas indicaram a presença de um ou mais parasitas sendo da ordem Strongylida (34,21%), Enoplida e Strongylida (23,68%), apenas Enoplida (23,68%), Cyclophyllidea e Oxyurida (5,26%), apenas Ascaridida (5,26%), Enoplida, Strongylida e Ascaridida (5,26%), e Enoplida e Eucoccidiorida (2,63%). Das amostras positivas 55,26% foram de aves, sendo que ovos de Capillaria sp. foi a principal estrutura identificada, 39,47% de mamíferos apontando que a ordem Strongylida foi a mais prevalente e 5,27% de répteis. O estudo demonstrou que, dentre os parasitas encontrados, aqueles da ordem Strongylida foram os mais frequentes, sendo observada em monoinfecção ou infecção mista em 63,16% das amostras analisadas. Dos animais avaliados, as aves e mamíferos foram os que apresentaram maior quantidade de amostras positivas para endoparasitas. Diante disso, é importante a realização de pesquisas que permitem avaliar a fauna parasitária para que seja possível determinar as condições em que esses parasitas se tornam patogênicos aos animais cativos.(AU)

Endoparasites infecting exotic captive amphibian pet and zoo animals (Anura, Caudata) in Germany.

Alongside exotic reptiles, amphibians, such as toads, frogs, salamanders, and newts, are nowadays considered popular pets worldwide. As reported for other exotic pet animals, amphibians are known to harbor numerous gastrointestinal parasites. Nonetheless, very little data are available on captive amphibian parasitic diseases. In this study, we applied direct saline fecal smears (DSFS) to examine in total 161 stool samples from 41 different amphibian species belonging to the orders Anura and Caudata. In addition, carbolfuchsin-smear (CFS) staining (n = 74 samples) was used to detect amphibian Cryptosporidium oocysts. Also, complete dissections of deceased amphibians (n = 107) were performed to specify parasite infections and to address parasite-associated pathogenicity. Overall, examined amphibian fecal samples contained 12 different parasite taxa. The order Rhabditida with the species Rhabdias spp. and Strongyloides spp. were the most prevalent nematode species (19.3%), followed by flagellated protozoans (8.7%), Amphibiocapillaria spp./Neocapillaria spp. (7.5%), Oswaldocruzia spp. (4.3%), Blastocystis spp. (3.1%), Cosmocerca spp. (3.1%), oxyurids (Pharyngonoidae) (3.1%), spirurids (1.2%), un-sporulated coccidian oocysts (0.6%), Tritrichomonas spp. (0.6%), Karotomorpha spp. (0.6%), and Cryptosporidium spp. (0.6%). One CFS-stained fecal sample (1.4%) was positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Within dissected amphibians, 31 (48.4%) of the anurans and 11 (26.2%) of the salamanders were infected with gastrointestinal parasites. One cutaneous Pseudocapillaroides xenopi infection was diagnosed in an adult African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis). Etiologically, 17 (15.9%) of them died due to severe parasitic and/or bacterial infections (e.g., Chryseobacterium indologenes, Citrobacter freudii, Sphingobacterium multivorum, Klebsiella pneumoniae). High prevalence and pathological findings of several clinical amphibian parasitoses call for more detailed investigation on gastrointestinal parasite-derived molecular mechanisms associated with detrimental lesions or even death.

Clinical, haematological and biochemical findings in tigers infected by Leishmania infantum.

BACKGROUND: A large number of animal species are susceptible to Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) in endemic areas, including domestic and wild felids such as tigers (Panthera tigris). Knowledge on the infection of this endangered species is still at its infancy, and therefore this study aims to identify clinical presentation and clinicopathological findings of tigers naturally infected by L. infantum. RESULTS: Tigers either L. infantum-positive (group A) or -negative (group B) were apparently healthy or presented visceral leishmaniasis unrelated conditions, except for one animal in which a large non-healing cutaneous lesion was observed. However, histological exam and immunohistochemistry carried out on the lesion excluded the presence of L. infantum amastigotes. Biochemical analysis showed that the average concentration of total proteins, globulins and haptoglobin were significantly higher (p < 0.01, p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively), while the albumin/globulin ratio significantly lower (p = 0.05) in group A compared with group B. The biochemical alterations were partially confirmed by the serum protein electrophoresis results revealing a significant increase in the total protein value (p = 0.01) and hypergammaglobulinemia (p = 0.03) but an unmodified albumin/globulin ratio in group A. CONCLUSIONS: In this study tigers infected by L. infantum have shown to be mainly asymptomatic. The absence of clinical signs may lead veterinarians to overlook leishmaniasis in animals kept in captivity. Therefore, diagnostic and screening tests as serology should be part of routinely surveillance programs to be performed on tigers in zoological gardens located in endemic areas. Though only few protein-related laboratory abnormalities were recorded in infected animals, they could provide diagnostic clues for a first suspicion of L. infantum infection in tigers. Indeed, considering the high risk of zoonotic transmission in heavily frequented environment as zoos, a prompt diagnosis of L. infantum infection is of pivotal importance.

Occurrence and multilocus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in captive non-human primates from 12 zoos in China.

Giardia duodenalis is a common enteric protozoan that infects a range of hosts including humans and other mammals. Multilocus genotyping of G. duodenalis in captive non-human primates (NHPs) from zoos in China is limited. In this study, we evaluated 302 NHP fecal samples collected from 32 different NHP species. The primates were from 12 zoos distributed across eight provinces and two municipalities (Chongqing and Beijing) of China. The overall infection rate was 8.3% (25/302). The six G. duodenalis-positive zoos and their infection rates were: Suzhou Zoo (40.0%, 4/10), Yangzhou Zoo (22.2%, 2/9), Dalian Zoo (16.7%, 4/24), Chengdu Zoo (12.8%, 6/47), Guiyang Forest Wildlife Zoo (12.1%, 7/58), and Changsha Zoo (4.7%, 2/43). Molecular analysis of three loci, beta-giardin (bg), triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), showed high genetic heterogeneity, and seven novel subtypes (BIII-1, MB10-1, WB8-1, B14-1, MB9-1, DN7-1, and BIV-1) were detected within assemblage B. Additional analysis revealed 12 different assemblage B multilocus genotypes (MLGs), one known MLG and 11 novel MLGs. Based on phylogenetic analysis, 12 assemblage B MLGs formed two main clades, MLG-SW (10-12, 18) and MLG-SW (13, 14, 16, 17), the other four MLG-SW (15, 19, 20, 21) were scattered throughout the phylogenetic tree in this study. Using multilocus genotyping, this study expands our understanding of the occurrence of Giardia infection and genetic variation in Giardia in captive non-human primates from zoos in China.

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Captive Animals at the Rio de Janeiro Zoo.

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal parasites may determine diarrhea, dysentery or even death in captive mammals. These animals tend to be more susceptible to parasitic infections due to confinement and stress. Purpose To increase the information about these etiological agents in captive animals in Brazil, the gastrointestinal parasites of the captive mammals of the Rio de Janeiro Zoo were investigated. METHODS: From 2016 to 2018, 180 fecal samples were collected from animals housed in the Rio de Janeiro Zoo: 63 from animals of the order Primates, 26 of Carnivora, 78 of Artiodactyla, 9 of Perissodactyla and 4 of the order Rheiformes. The feces were processed by direct examination and by the techniques of Faust et al., Sheather, Ritchie, Lutz, and smears were stained with safranin. Immunoenzymatic assays were also performed to investigate antigens of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar. RESULTS: Parasite positivity was identified in 68.3% of the fecal samples, with a parasite positivity rate of 68.2% among primates, 65.3% among carnivores, 69.2% among artiodactyls, 33.3% among perissodactyls, and 100% among rheiformes. The most frequently detected parasite was Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar antigens, which showed a statistically significant positivity rate (33.3%; p = 0.000), particularly in the feces of carnivores (30.7%) and artiodactyls (53.8%). A statistically significant positivity rate of Balantioides coli (11.1%; p = 0.001) was also detected in feces from nonhuman primates, tapirs, collared peccaries and rheas. The positivity of Cryptosporidium sp. antigens in feces of the orders Carnivora, Artiodactyla and Primates was also statistically significant (7.2%, p = 0.010). Oocysts compatible with Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in 6.3% from primates. The helminths most frequently detected were thin-shelled eggs of nematodes (17.7%, p = 0.000), nematode larvae (15.5%, p = 0.000) and Trichuris trichiura eggs (6.1%, p = 0.018). CONCLUSION: The positivity rate for gastrointestinal parasites demonstrates the need for a sanitation management program to be implemented in the zoo, including routine diagnostic parasitology tests followed by specific treatment for each parasitosis.

Prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis sp. infection in zoo animals in three cities in China.

Blastocystis is a highly prevalent eukaryotic parasite of many animals and humans worldwide. It can compromise the gastrointestinal tract and cause gastrointestinal symptoms, constituting a serious threat to human health and animal growth. Many animals are potential sources of Blastocystis infection in humans. However, limited data are available regarding the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis infection among zoo animals in China. Therefore, the present study examined the prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis in zoo animals in Hangzhou, Dalian, and Suzhou cities, China. Of 450 fecal samples from zoo animals, 27 (6.0%) were PCR-positive for Blastocystis, with 7.7% (8/104), 11.3% (7/62), 16.7% (3/18), 1.8% (2/114), 6.3% (1/16), 9.5% (2/21), and 3.6% (4/109) in artiodactyla, aves, rodentia, nonhuman primates, perissodactyla, marsupialia, and carnivora, respectively. Significant differences in the prevalence of Blastocystis were found among different animal groups (P < 0.05). Sequence analysis showed 7 known subtypes (ST2, ST4, ST5, ST7, ST8, ST10, and ST14) of Blastocystis in the present study, with ST10 (10/27) as the predominant subtype in all three of the examined zoos. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Blastocystis infection in Damaliscus dorcas, Cervus elaphus, Macropus rufogriseus, Grus japonensis, Trichoglossus haematodus, Panthera tigris ssp. tigris (white), Panthera tigris ssp. altaica, Lycaon pictus, Suricata suricatta, and Dolichotis patagonum in China. These results demonstrate the presence of Blastocystis infection in zoo animals and provided baseline data for preventing and controlling Blastocystis infection in zoo animals and humans in China.

Diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in wild mammals from a zoo and two conservation units in southeastern Brazil.

The enteric protist Blastocystis is one of the most commonly parasite reported in humans and a variety of animal hosts worldwide. Regarding genetic diversity, at least 17 subtypes (STs) have been identified in mammals and birds, with eight of them (ST1-8) infecting both humans and animals. Recently, isolates from wild mammalian species have been genetically characterized, however data is still scarce, mainly in Latin America. Here, we aimed to verify the occurrence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis in captive wild mammals kept in one zoo and in two units of protection and conservation in southeastern Brazil. A total of 78 fecal samples (14 pooled and 64 individual samples) were recovered from 102 wild mammals of 35 species included in the following orders: Primates, Carnivora, Artiodactyla, Pilosa, Rodentia and Marsupialia. Zoo and units staff were invited to participated but only 16 fecal samples could be screened. Based on the sequence analyses of SSUrDNA gene, out of 29 PCR products from animal samples, 51.7% (15/29) were successfully sequenced and five Blastocystis subtypes were identified as follows: ST1 (2/15; 13.3%), ST2 (2/15; 13.3%), ST3 (4/15; 26.6%), ST5 (2/15; 13.3%) and ST8 (5/14; 33.3%). Only four isolates from humans were sequenced and identified as ST1 (2 isolates), ST2 and ST3. It was observed that Blastocystis infecting non-human primates belong to ST1 and ST2 and mainly to ST3 and ST8, artiodactyls ST5, carnivores ST1 and ST5 and rodents ST1. In addition, this present study reports some interesting findings: (1) 63% (12/19) of Blastocystis isolates from animals and employees belonged to the potentially zoonotic subtypes ST1-ST3; (2) most of these isolates displayed high identity with publicly available DNA sequences from non-human primates and humans, including primate handlers; (3) Blastocystis ST5 was found infecting the northern tiger cat, a native South American felid and one of the species facing a high risk of extinction in Brazil.

Detection of avian haemosporidia from captive musophagid birds at a zoological garden in Japan.

One captive musophagid bird at a zoological garden in Japan showed clinical symptoms and was found to be infected with avian haemosporidia. We subsequently collected blood from all musophagid birds kept in the garden and examined for avian haemosporidia using both microscopic and molecular examination. Only Haemoproteus gametocytes were observed in the blood of two Guinea turaco (Tauraco persa). Three genetic lineages of Haemoproteus were identified from three Guinea turacos and one genetic lineage of Leucocytozoon was identified from a grey plantain-eater (Crinifer piscator). Detected Haemoproteus lineages were all identical and completely different from those previously reported in Japan, suggesting that these birds were infected in their original habitat. This is the first record of Haemoproteus infection in Guinea turacos.

Toxoplasma gondii in small exotic felids from zoos in Europe and the Middle East: serological prevalence and risk factors.

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasma gondii infections and cases of clinical toxoplasmosis have been recorded in zoo animals. Wild felids in human care can serve as definitive hosts that shed oocysts, but also as intermediate hosts for the parasite. Some felid species, such as the Pallas's cat (Otocolobus manul) or sand cat (Felis margarita), may suffer from clinically apparent toxoplasmosis. In the present study, our main aim was to assess risk factors for T. gondii infections in small exotic felids. METHODS: A seroepidemiological study was conducted using the reduviid bug Dipetalogaster maxima for blood sample collection, a method previously evaluated on domestic cats. A total of 336 samples from 17 felid species were collected in 51 institutions, 48 of which were within Europe and the remaining three in the Middle East (United Arabic Emirates and Qatar). These samples were analyzed for T. gondii antibodies by immunoblotting and an immunofluorescent antibody test. Potential risk factors in zoos for seropositivity regarding T. gondii among members of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) were evaluated using a questionnaire and individual data from the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS). RESULTS: The sampled felids showed an overall seroprevalence for T. gondii of 63%. The risk factor study including data of 311 small exotic cats of 10 species resulted in a final generalized linear mixed model comprised of five variables: the likelihood of seropositivity increased statistically significantly with "Age", while feeding "Cattle: frozen" relative to "Cattle: fresh", "Outdoor housing fenced in on all sides", "Mesh size 2-5 cm" relative to "Mesh size > 5 cm" and "Wearing gloves: yes" had statistically significant protective effects. CONCLUSIONS: Wild felids, including endangered species, kept in human care in European and Middle Eastern institutions, are widely exposed to T. gondii. Risk factor analysis revealed that feeding previously frozen tissues, keeping animals in enclosures that are fenced on all sides using fences with small mesh sizes, and wearing gloves when working inside enclosures seem to be the most relevant protective measures to prevent T. gondii infections in these animals .