Seminoma in a gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) with unilateral cryptorchidism

Cryptorchidism is the incomplete descent of the testes and associated structures, and cryptorchid testes are more likely to develop testicular neoplasms, such as seminoma. This is the first report of a seminoma in a cryptorchid wild-caught gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira). The animal developed a unilateral seminoma with classical histopathological findings and benign behavior. Six months after the orchiectomy the cervid presented a metatarsal opened fracture, dying during the orthopedic surgery. No macro or micrometric metastasis was observed at the necropsy.(AU)

Apicomplexa parasites in the brains of road-killed wild animals in the State of Paraná, Brazil / Parasitas apicomplexas em cérebro de animais silvestres mortos em estradas do Estado do Paraná, Brasil

The use of run-over wild animals is an efficient strategy for scientific research of pathogens. The aim of this study was to detect DNA from phylum Apicomplexa in the brain of road-killed wild animals from the NorthCentral and North Pioneer mesoregions of Paraná, Brazil. Pre-established transects were run weekly; when found, animals were packed into individual packages and sent for autopsy. The brain fragments were collected and kept at -20 ° C until processing. The DNA extracted from the samples was amplified by nested-PCR for the 18S rDNA gene from the phylum Apicomplexa. All positive samples were submitted to DNA sequencing to define the species. A total of 90 animals were collected, however, only 68 animals (75.6%) that had integrity of the brain were included in the study. It was possible to identify the species by DNA sequencing in four samples: Sarcocystis spp. was identified in one Colaptes melanochloros (Greenbarred woodpecker) and one Mazama gouazoubira (Gray brocket). Neospora caninum was observed in a Leopardus pardalis (Ocelot) and T. gondii was present in Didelphis albiventris (white-eared opossum). The results indicated that parasites with economic and public health relevance were present in wild animals, which may favor infection of humans and animals.(AU)

O uso de animais silvestres atropelados é uma estratégia eficiente para a pesquisa científica de patógenos. O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar DNA de parasitas do filo Apicomplexa em amostras de cérebro de animais silvestres atropelados nas mesorregiões Centro-Norte e Pioneira do Norte do Paraná, Brasil. Os transectos pré-estabelecidos foram percorridos semanalmente; quando encontrados, os animais foram armazenados em embalagens individuais e enviados para autópsia. Os fragmentos cerebrais foram coletados e mantidos a -20 ° C até o processamento. O DNA extraído das amostras foi amplificado por nested-PCR para o gene 18S rDNA do filo Apicomplexa. Todas as amostras positivas foram submetidas ao sequenciamento de DNA para definição da espécie. Um total de 90 animais foram coletados, no entanto, foram incluídos no estudo apenas 68 animais (75,6%) que apresentavam encéfalo. No sequenciamento foi possível identificar parasitos apicomplexos pelo sequenciamento de DNA em quatro amostras: Sarcocystis spp. em Colaptes melanochloros (pica-pau-verde-barrado) e em Mazama gouazoubira (veadocatingueiro); Neospora caninum em Leopardus pardalis (jaguatirica); e T. gondii em Didelphis albiventris (gambá-de-orelha-branca). Os resultados demonstraram que protozoários com relevância econômica e de saúde pública estavam presentes em animais silvestres, o que pode favorecer a infecção de humanos e animais.(AU)

Occurrence of Lipoptena mazama and Lipoptena guimaraesi (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) on gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) in southern Brazil / Ocorrência de Lipoptena mazama e Lipoptena guimaraesi (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) em veado-catingueiro (Mazama gouazoubira) no sul do Brasil

Abstract The genus Lipoptena includes hematophagous insects of the family Hippoboscidae that parasitize different deer species. The present study aims to identify 19 flies that parasitize deer of the genus Mazama in the State of Paraná, Brazil. We analyzed 18 flies (Lipoptena mazamae) and 1 Lipoptena guimaraesi. This study expands the host list for L. guimaraesi, previously restricted to a single deer species (Ozotoceros bezoarticus).

Resumo O gênero Lipoptena engloba insetos hematófagos da família Hippoboscidae que parasitam diferentes espécies de cervídeos. O presente estudo tem por objetivo relatar a identificação de 19 moscas encontradas parasitando cervídeos do gênero Mazama, no Estado do Paraná, Brasil. Dentre os espécimes analisados, 18 pertenciam à espécie Lipoptena mazamae e um à espécie Lipoptena guimaraesi. O presente artigo expande a lista de hospedeiros de L. guimaraesi, antes restrita a uma única espécie de cervídeo (Ozotoceros bezoarticus).

Angioarchitecture of the coronary arteries in Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814) / Angioarquitetura das artérias coronárias em Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814)

Mazama gouazoubira is a widely distributed deer in the South American continent. However, studies on its anatomical characteristics are still scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the coronary circulation of M. gouazoubira. With this aim, after collecting cadavers on highways, twenty-four hearts injected with latex and preserved in formaldehyde at 10% were dissected. The dissections revealed that all specimens presented left coronary dominance, characterized by the origin of the subsinuous interventricular branch from the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. The number of ventricular branches originated from branches of the left coronary artery was approximately five times higher than that of the right coronary artery. The occurrence of myocardial bridges was registered in 91.7% of the individuals, with bridges predominating over the paraconal interventricular branch. The mean length of the paraconal interventricular sulcus was significantly higher in males (p = 0.02). The number of atrial branches and ventricular branches, length of myocardial bridges and length of subsinuous interventricular sulcus did not vary significantly between sex. Left coronary dominance and high frequency of myocardial bridges in M. gouazoubira are preponderant anatomical traits also present in different species of Ruminantia suborder. Coronary dominance studies in other South American deer species may confirm the correlation of this trait with the evolutionary history of these animals.

Mazama gouazoubira é um cervídeo com ampla distribuição no continente sul americano. Entretanto, estudos sobre suas características anatômicas, ainda, são escassos. Objetivou-se elucidar a circulação coronariana do M. gouazoubira. Para tal, foram dissecados 24 corações injetados com látex e conservados em formaldeído a 10%, obtidos de cadáveres recolhidos em rodovias. As dissecações revelaram que todos os espécimes apresentaram dominância coronariana esquerda, caracterizada pela origem do ramo interventricular subsinuoso, a partir do ramo circunflexo da artéria coronária esquerda. O número de ramos ventriculares originados, a partir de ramos da artéria coronária esquerda, foi aproximadamente cinco vezes maior do que aquele da artéria coronária direita. A ocorrência de pontes de miocárdio foi registrada em 91,7% dos indivíduos, predominando as pontes sobre o ramo interventricular paraconal. O comprimento médio do sulco interventricular paraconal foi significativa-mente maior em machos (p = 0,02). O número de ramos atriais e ramos ventriculares, comprimento das pontes de miocárdio e comprimento do sulco interventricular subsinuoso, não variaram, significativamente, entre os sexos. A dominância corona-riana esquerda e a elevada frequência de pontes de miocárdio no M. gouazoubira são traços anatômicos preponderantes, tam-bém, em diferentes espécies da subordem Ruminantia. Estudos sobre dominância coronariana em outras espécies de cervídeos sul americanos poderão sugerir a correlação desta característica com a história evolutiva destes animais.

Angioarchitecture of the coronary arteries in Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814) / Angioarquitetura das artérias coronárias em Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814)

Mazama gouazoubira is a widely distributed deer in the South American continent. However, studies on its anatomical characteristics are still scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the coronary circulation of M. gouazoubira. With this aim, after collecting cadavers on highways, twenty-four hearts injected with latex and preserved in formaldehyde at 10% were dissected. The dissections revealed that all specimens presented left coronary dominance, characterized by the origin of the subsinuous interventricular branch from the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. The number of ventricular branches originated from branches of the left coronary artery was approximately five times higher than that of the right coronary artery. The occurrence of myocardial bridges was registered in 91.7% of the individuals, with bridges predominating over the paraconal interventricular branch. The mean length of the paraconal interventricular sulcus was significantly higher in males (p = 0.02). The number of atrial branches and ventricular branches, length of myocardial bridges and length of subsinuous interventricular sulcus did not vary significantly between sex. Left coronary dominance and high frequency of myocardial bridges in M. gouazoubira are preponderant anatomical traits also present in different species of Ruminantia suborder. Coronary dominance studies in other South American deer species may confirm the correlation of this trait with the evolutionary history of these animals.(AU)

Mazama gouazoubira é um cervídeo com ampla distribuição no continente sul americano. Entretanto, estudos sobre suas características anatômicas, ainda, são escassos. Objetivou-se elucidar a circulação coronariana do M. gouazoubira. Para tal, foram dissecados 24 corações injetados com látex e conservados em formaldeído a 10%, obtidos de cadáveres recolhidos em rodovias. As dissecações revelaram que todos os espécimes apresentaram dominância coronariana esquerda, caracterizada pela origem do ramo interventricular subsinuoso, a partir do ramo circunflexo da artéria coronária esquerda. O número de ramos ventriculares originados, a partir de ramos da artéria coronária esquerda, foi aproximadamente cinco vezes maior do que aquele da artéria coronária direita. A ocorrência de pontes de miocárdio foi registrada em 91,7% dos indivíduos, predominando as pontes sobre o ramo interventricular paraconal. O comprimento médio do sulco interventricular paraconal foi significativa-mente maior em machos (p = 0,02). O número de ramos atriais e ramos ventriculares, comprimento das pontes de miocárdio e comprimento do sulco interventricular subsinuoso, não variaram, significativamente, entre os sexos. A dominância corona-riana esquerda e a elevada frequência de pontes de miocárdio no M. gouazoubira são traços anatômicos preponderantes, tam-bém, em diferentes espécies da subordem Ruminantia. Estudos sobre dominância coronariana em outras espécies de cervídeos sul americanos poderão sugerir a correlação desta característica com a história evolutiva destes animais.(AU)

Suppurative meningoencephalitis secondary to a Trueperella pyogenes-induced mandibular abscess in a free-ranging gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira)

Trueperella pyogenes é um patógeno oportunista, afetando mais comumente ruminantes e porcos. Uma fêmea de veado-mato-cinzento ( Mazama gouazoubira ) teve um abscesso no músculo masseter associado a uma osteólise e osteomielite na mandíbula direita adjacente, com um trato fistuloso até a órbita e através do forame óptico no crânio, causando uma supuração meningite. Histologicamente, o abscesso foi caracterizado por um infiltrado inflamatório neutrofílico e histiocítico com uma miríade de bactérias Gram-positivas em forma de bastonete e uma leptomeningite supurativa e histiocítica focalmente extensa das porções ventrais do cérebro. A cultura microbiológica aeróbia, MALDI-ToF e PCR identificaram T. pyogenes.

Suppurative meningoencephalitis secondary to a Trueperella pyogenes-induced mandibular abscess in a free-ranging gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira)

Trueperella pyogenes é um patógeno oportunista, afetando mais comumente ruminantes e porcos. Uma fêmea de veado-mato-cinzento ( Mazama gouazoubira ) teve um abscesso no músculo masseter associado a uma osteólise e osteomielite na mandíbula direita adjacente, com um trato fistuloso até a órbita e através do forame óptico no crânio, causando uma supuração meningite. Histologicamente, o abscesso foi caracterizado por um infiltrado inflamatório neutrofílico e histiocítico com uma miríade de bactérias Gram-positivas em forma de bastonete e uma leptomeningite supurativa e histiocítica focalmente extensa das porções ventrais do cérebro. A cultura microbiológica aeróbia, MALDI-ToF e PCR identificaram T. pyogenes.(AU)

Detection of anti-Toxoplasma gondiiantibodies in wild free-living birds and mammals from the northwest region of São Paulo state, Brazil / Detecção de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondiiem aves e mamíferos silvestres de vida livre da região noroeste do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis is a protozoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular parasite named Toxoplasma gondii, which can infect humans and a large number of homeothermic animal species with worldwide distribution. The present study aimed to detect anti-T. gondii antibodies from serological samples of free-living wild animals from the northwest region of São Paulo state, Brazil. Thirty-two samples (eight from birds and 24 from mammals) were analyzed by the modified agglutination test (MAT) using 5 cut-off points for birds and 25 for mammals. Seropositivity was observed in 25% (2/8) of birds, including the species Rupornis magnirostris (roadside hawk) and Caracara plancus (southern caracara), and 29.2% (7/24) animals were seropositive among mammals, including one hoary fox (Lycalopex vetulus), two maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), one black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya), two crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) and one gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira). The results obtained with the present study indicate the exposure to T. gondiiof free-living wild animals from the northwest region of São Paulo state and, therefore, that they probably play a role in the transmission and maintenance of T. gondii in the environment they inhabit. Thus, identification of the infection in several animal species in the region indicates the environmental contamination of the area. Studies of this nature may help to understand the importance of the prevention and control of this disease in Brazil.(AU)

A toxoplasmose é uma protozoonose causada por um parasita intracelular obrigatório denominado Toxoplasma gondii, que pode infectar os humanos e um vasto número de espécies animais homeotérmicas, apresentando distribuição mundial. O presente estudo objetivou a detecção de anticorpos anti-T. gondii a partir de amostras sorológicas de animais silvestres de vida livre da região noroeste do estado de São Paulo. Foram analisadas 32 amostras (oito de aves e 24 de mamíferos) por meio do teste de aglutinação modificado (MAT), utilizando ponto de corte 5 para as aves e 25 para os mamíferos. Soropositividade foi observada em 25% (2/8) das aves, incluindo as espécies Rupornis magnirostris (gavião-carijó) e Caracara plancus (carcará); entre os mamíferos, 29,2% (7/24) foram soropositivos incluindo uma raposa-do-campo (Lycalopex vetulus), dois lobos-guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus), um bugio-preto (Alouatta caraya), dois cachorros-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous) e um veado-catingueiro (Mazama gouazoubira). Os resultados obtidos com o presente estudo indicam a exposição dos animais selvagens de vida livre a T. gondii na região noroeste do estado de São Paulo e, portanto, que provavelmente apresentam papel na transmissão e manutenção de T. gondii no meio ambiente em que vivem. Assim, a identificação da infecção em várias espécies de animais na região indica a contaminação ambiental da área. Estudos dessa natureza podem ajudar no entendimento sobre a prevenção e o controle dessa importante doença no Brasil.(AU)

Detection of anti-Toxoplasma gondiiantibodies in wild free-living birds and mammals from the northwest region of São Paulo state, Brazil / Detecção de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondiiem aves e mamíferos silvestres de vida livre da região noroeste do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis is a protozoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular parasite named Toxoplasma gondii, which can infect humans and a large number of homeothermic animal species with worldwide distribution. The present study aimed to detect anti-T. gondii antibodies from serological samples of free-living wild animals from the northwest region of São Paulo state, Brazil. Thirty-two samples (eight from birds and 24 from mammals) were analyzed by the modified agglutination test (MAT) using 5 cut-off points for birds and 25 for mammals. Seropositivity was observed in 25% (2/8) of birds, including the species Rupornis magnirostris (roadside hawk) and Caracara plancus (southern caracara), and 29.2% (7/24) animals were seropositive among mammals, including one hoary fox (Lycalopex vetulus), two maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), one black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya), two crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) and one gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira). The results obtained with the present study indicate the exposure to T. gondiiof free-living wild animals from the northwest region of São Paulo state and, therefore, that they probably play a role in the transmission and maintenance of T. gondii in the environment they inhabit. Thus, identification of the infection in several animal species in the region indicates the environmental contamination of the area. Studies of this nature may help to understand the importance of the prevention and control of this disease in Brazil.(AU)

A toxoplasmose é uma protozoonose causada por um parasita intracelular obrigatório denominado Toxoplasma gondii, que pode infectar os humanos e um vasto número de espécies animais homeotérmicas, apresentando distribuição mundial. O presente estudo objetivou a detecção de anticorpos anti-T. gondii a partir de amostras sorológicas de animais silvestres de vida livre da região noroeste do estado de São Paulo. Foram analisadas 32 amostras (oito de aves e 24 de mamíferos) por meio do teste de aglutinação modificado (MAT), utilizando ponto de corte 5 para as aves e 25 para os mamíferos. Soropositividade foi observada em 25% (2/8) das aves, incluindo as espécies Rupornis magnirostris (gavião-carijó) e Caracara plancus (carcará); entre os mamíferos, 29,2% (7/24) foram soropositivos incluindo uma raposa-do-campo (Lycalopex vetulus), dois lobos-guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus), um bugio-preto (Alouatta caraya), dois cachorros-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous) e um veado-catingueiro (Mazama gouazoubira). Os resultados obtidos com o presente estudo indicam a exposição dos animais selvagens de vida livre a T. gondii na região noroeste do estado de São Paulo e, portanto, que provavelmente apresentam papel na transmissão e manutenção de T. gondii no meio ambiente em que vivem. Assim, a identificação da infecção em várias espécies de animais na região indica a contaminação ambiental da área. Estudos dessa natureza podem ajudar no entendimento sobre a prevenção e o controle dessa importante doença no Brasil.(AU)

Abortion in captive gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) associated with colloid goiter, hemonchosis and necrotizing rumenitis

Background: The gray brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) is a specie that shows great adaptability in different habitats and it is the most abundant deer specie in South America. The present work describes for the first time a case of abortion followed by death associated with colloid goiter, massive hemonchosis and necrotizing rumenitis in a captive female gray brocket deer. Case: A 4-year-old female gray brocket deer (M. gouazoubira) raised in captivity had a history of abortion during the last third of gestation. The animal was kept in an enclosure together with 3 other gray brockets deers, being 1 male of the same age and 2 juvenile brocket deer of approximately 1 and 2 years old. The animals were fed with concentrated used as cattle feed and dewormed annually with 1% Ivermectin. The animals' enclosure had vegetation cover formed by grasses and soil. The animals appeared healthy with no behavioral changes. The day after the stillbirth, the mother was found dead in the enclosure and sent to the animal pathology sector of the University of Vila Velha (UVV), Brazil. Necropsy revealed that thyroid lobules were highly increased in volume and histopathological findings were compatible with colloid goiter. A large number of nematodes were found in the abomasal content, totalizing 11,626 helminths, which were morphologically characterized as Haemonchus contortus. Grossly, the serous and ruminal mucosa exhibited an extensively reddish focal area with irregular contour, surface ulceration and a firm consistency. Microscopically, a severe necrotizing rumenitis was diagnosed. The liver showed pale multifocal areas on the subcapsular surface, friable to the touch which deepened when cut. Histopathological analysis revealed an accentuated multifocal panlobular coagulative necrosis, characterizing an acute liver necrosis. Discussion: Iodine is a mineral of great importance for thyroid hormones synthesis and your requirements are higher during pregnancy and lactation. Diets deficient in iodine causes a reduction in the basal activity of the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and over-stimulation of the thyroid by thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), resulting in goiter. In the present case, it is possible that the shortage of iodine in diet caused a goiter and, as a consequence, triggered the abortion. Haemonchus contortus is a pathogenic nematode of small ruminants, leading to decreased productivity and death in some cases as a result of anemia and hypoxia. The contact between domestic and wild animals, resulting in the emergence of infectious diseases and the spread of pathogens among species. In the present case, manual counting accounted for 11,626 H. contortus larvae, characterizing a massive infection and justifying the condition of severe anemia. The high parasitic load shown in this case points out this parasite's importance related to this species in captivity. In general, inflammatory lesions in the rumen are results of excessive intake of fermentable carbohydrates, which leads to a considerable decrease in ruminal pH and leads to a high proliferation of lactic acid bacteria. This lesion has been previously reported in cervids. This case of comorbidities demonstrates that failures in nutritional and health handling, may cause simultaneous multiple diseases leading to death. Preventive measures for helminth parasite control and a proper feeding management with an adequate diet must be provided in order to preserve the species in captivity.

Avaliação do acetato de melengestrol (MGA) na sincronização do estro em fêmeas de veado-mão-curta (Mazama nana) e veado-roxo (Mazama nemorivaga): estudo piloto / Assessment of melengestrol acetate on estrus synchronization in female of Brazilian dwarf brocket deer and Amazonian brown brocket deer: pilot study

A introdução de dispositivos intravaginais em protocolos tradicionais de sincronização do estro (SE) exige contenção física e/ou química, o que pode resultar em estresse e efeitos negativos na fisiologia reprodutiva de animais selvagens. Portanto, o uso de protocolos não invasivos pode ser mais eficaz para o manejo da reprodução ex situ. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do acetato de melengestrol (MGA), na SE de uma fêmea de veado-mão-curta (Mazama nana) e uma de veado-roxo (Mazama nemorivaga). Ambas receberam uma aplicação via intramuscular de 0,25 mg de benzoato de estradiol (Sincrodiol® ) no dia 0 (D0). Entre o D0 e o D7, foi administrado 1 mg/animal/dia de MGA® Premix fracionado em duas porções (0,5 mg pela manhã e 0,5 mg a tarde), misturadas com banana. No D8, um análogo de PGF2α (Cloprostenol - Ciosin® ) foi administrado via intramuscular. Após o tratamento, o estro comportamental (EC) foi avaliado com auxílio de um macho da respectiva espécie desde D9 a D13, primeiramente a cada seis horas e, após o início do EC, a cada quatro horas. As duas fêmeas apresentaram sinais de EC nos dias 12 e 13. Na espécie Mazama nana, o EC teve uma duração aproximada de 16 horas e, na espécie Mazama nemorivaga, 20 horas. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo sugerem a eficácia da dose de 1,0 mg/animal/dia de MGA, fracionada em duas doses, na manipulação estral em fêmeas de veado-mão-curta e veado-roxo, uma vez que ambas demonstraram EC quatro dias após o protocolo de sincronização proposto.(AU)

The introduction of intravaginal devices in traditional estrus synchronization protocols requires physical and/or chemical restraint, which can result in stress and negative effects on the reproductive physiology of wild animals. Therefore, the use of non-invasive protocols might be more effective for the reproductive management ex situ. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the melengestrol acetate (MGA) for estrus synchronization of two females: one deer-short-hand (Mazama nana) and one deer-purple (Mazama nemorivaga). Both were given an application of estradiol benzoate (Sincrodiol® ) on day 0 (D0). From D0 to D7, 1 mg/female/day of oral MGA® Premix was fractionated in two administrations (0.5 mg morning and 0.5mg afternoon) mixed with banana. On D8, a PGF2α analogue were given intramuscularly (Cloprostenol - Ciosin® ). After treatment, behavioural estrus was evaluated with the aid of a male of the respective species from D9 to D13, initially every six hours then every four hours after the onset of behavioural estrus. The two females showed behavioural estrus on days 12 and 13. In the Mazama nana, the behavioral estrus had duration of approximately 16 hours and in the Mazama nemorivaga 20 hours. The results obtained in this study suggest the efficacy of 1.0 mg/female/day of MGA fractionated in two doses for the estrus manipulation in deer-short-hand and deer-purple females, since both showed behavioural estrus four days after the proposed synchronization protocol.(AU)

Avaliação do acetato de melengestrol (MGA) na sincronização do estro em fêmeas de veado-mão-curta (Mazama nana) e veado-roxo (Mazama nemorivaga): estudo piloto / Assessment of melengestrol acetate on estrus synchronization in female of Brazilian dwarf brocket deer and Amazonian brown brocket deer: pilot study

A introdução de dispositivos intravaginais em protocolos tradicionais de sincronização do estro (SE) exige contenção física e/ou química, o que pode resultar em estresse e efeitos negativos na fisiologia reprodutiva de animais selvagens. Portanto, o uso de protocolos não invasivos pode ser mais eficaz para o manejo da reprodução ex situ. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do acetato de melengestrol (MGA), na SE de uma fêmea de veado-mão-curta (Mazama nana) e uma de veado-roxo (Mazama nemorivaga). Ambas receberam uma aplicação via intramuscular de 0,25 mg de benzoato de estradiol (Sincrodiol® ) no dia 0 (D0). Entre o D0 e o D7, foi administrado 1 mg/animal/dia de MGA® Premix fracionado em duas porções (0,5 mg pela manhã e 0,5 mg a tarde), misturadas com banana. No D8, um análogo de PGF2α (Cloprostenol - Ciosin® ) foi administrado via intramuscular. Após o tratamento, o estro comportamental (EC) foi avaliado com auxílio de um macho da respectiva espécie desde D9 a D13, primeiramente a cada seis horas e, após o início do EC, a cada quatro horas. As duas fêmeas apresentaram sinais de EC nos dias 12 e 13. Na espécie Mazama nana, o EC teve uma duração aproximada de 16 horas e, na espécie Mazama nemorivaga, 20 horas. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo sugerem a eficácia da dose de 1,0 mg/animal/dia de MGA, fracionada em duas doses, na manipulação estral em fêmeas de veado-mão-curta e veado-roxo, uma vez que ambas demonstraram EC quatro dias após o protocolo de sincronização proposto.

The introduction of intravaginal devices in traditional estrus synchronization protocols requires physical and/or chemical restraint, which can result in stress and negative effects on the reproductive physiology of wild animals. Therefore, the use of non-invasive protocols might be more effective for the reproductive management ex situ. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the melengestrol acetate (MGA) for estrus synchronization of two females: one deer-short-hand (Mazama nana) and one deer-purple (Mazama nemorivaga). Both were given an application of estradiol benzoate (Sincrodiol® ) on day 0 (D0). From D0 to D7, 1 mg/female/day of oral MGA® Premix was fractionated in two administrations (0.5 mg morning and 0.5mg afternoon) mixed with banana. On D8, a PGF2α analogue were given intramuscularly (Cloprostenol - Ciosin® ). After treatment, behavioural estrus was evaluated with the aid of a male of the respective species from D9 to D13, initially every six hours then every four hours after the onset of behavioural estrus. The two females showed behavioural estrus on days 12 and 13. In the Mazama nana, the behavioral estrus had duration of approximately 16 hours and in the Mazama nemorivaga 20 hours. The results obtained in this study suggest the efficacy of 1.0 mg/female/day of MGA fractionated in two doses for the estrus manipulation in deer-short-hand and deer-purple females, since both showed behavioural estrus four days after the proposed synchronization protocol.

Um exemplar muito jovem de Mazama sp. encontrado na Gruta Cuvieri, região de Lagoa Santa, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil / A very young specimen from Mazama sp. found in Cuvieri Cave, Lagoa Santa region, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Durante o Quaternário, as cavernas serviram como armadilhas naturais para numerosos grupos de animais e, devido às condições ambientais relativamente estáveis, a preservação nesse ambiente é melhor do que na superfície, de modo que o material osteológico encontrado nas cavernas representa um registro importante de eventos ambientais e mudanças na fauna. A Caverna Cuvieri faz parte do complexo Carste de Lagoa Santa, conhecido por seu grande número de cavernas contendo ossos preservados de animais recentes e extintos. Os cervídeos representam a família mais abundante de macrovertebrados encontrados na caverna de Cuvieri, com espécimes com grande variação ontogenética de representantes do gênero Mazama. O presente estudo descreve a ocorrência do espécime mais jovem deste gênero encontrado em um depósito de caverna. O espécime consiste em ossos apendiculares (fêmures, úmeros, tíbias, rádios, ulna e escápula) sem desgaste, ataque predatório ou evidência de intemperismo.

During the Quaternary, caves served as natural traps for numerous groups of animals and due to relatively stable environmental conditions preservation is better than on the surface, so the osteological material found in caves represents an important record of environmental events and faunal changes. Cuvieri Cave is part of the Lagoa Santa Karst complex, known for its large number of caves containing preserved bones of recent and extinct animals. Cervidae represent the most abundant family of macrovertebrates found at Cuvieri Cave, with specimens with large ontogenetic variation of representatives of the genus Mazama. The present study describes the occurrence of the youngest specimen of this genus found in a cave deposit. The specimen consists of appendicular bones (femurs, humerus, tibias, radios, ulna and scapula) without wear, predatory attack or evidence of weathering.

Um exemplar muito jovem de Mazama sp. encontrado na Gruta Cuvieri, região de Lagoa Santa, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil / A very young specimen from Mazama sp. found in Cuvieri Cave, Lagoa Santa region, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Durante o Quaternário, as cavernas serviram como armadilhas naturais para numerosos grupos de animais e, devido às condições ambientais relativamente estáveis, a preservação nesse ambiente é melhor do que na superfície, de modo que o material osteológico encontrado nas cavernas representa um registro importante de eventos ambientais e mudanças na fauna. A Caverna Cuvieri faz parte do complexo Carste de Lagoa Santa, conhecido por seu grande número de cavernas contendo ossos preservados de animais recentes e extintos. Os cervídeos representam a família mais abundante de macrovertebrados encontrados na caverna de Cuvieri, com espécimes com grande variação ontogenética de representantes do gênero Mazama. O presente estudo descreve a ocorrência do espécime mais jovem deste gênero encontrado em um depósito de caverna. O espécime consiste em ossos apendiculares (fêmures, úmeros, tíbias, rádios, ulna e escápula) sem desgaste, ataque predatório ou evidência de intemperismo.(AU)

During the Quaternary, caves served as natural traps for numerous groups of animals and due to relatively stable environmental conditions preservation is better than on the surface, so the osteological material found in caves represents an important record of environmental events and faunal changes. Cuvieri Cave is part of the Lagoa Santa Karst complex, known for its large number of caves containing preserved bones of recent and extinct animals. Cervidae represent the most abundant family of macrovertebrates found at Cuvieri Cave, with specimens with large ontogenetic variation of representatives of the genus Mazama. The present study describes the occurrence of the youngest specimen of this genus found in a cave deposit. The specimen consists of appendicular bones (femurs, humerus, tibias, radios, ulna and scapula) without wear, predatory attack or evidence of weathering.(AU)

Low invasive estrous synchronization protocol for wild animals: an example with melengestrol acetate in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira)

Deer are sensitive to stressful stimuli by handling and their reproductive physiology could be altered by these procedures, making it necessary to develop less invasive protocols for ART. Melengestrol acetate (MGA), a synthetic progestin administered orally, appears as an alternative for estrous synchronization protocols (ESP), such as reported in cattle. Firstly, we compared two MGA doses (0.5 and 1.0 mg/day/animal), which would have suppression effect in estrous behavior (EB). Eight females were randomly and equally distributed in Group 1 (G1) and Group 2 (G2), which received 0.5 and 1.0 mg/day/animal respectively for 15 days (D1 to D15). Two cloprostenol (CP) applications were performed on D0 and D11. Estrus detection (ED) was performed every day. All females from G1 displayed estrus during treatment period, whereas all females from G2 displayed estrus after treatment, suggesting a suppressive effect of 1.0 mg in the EB. Once the suppressive MGA dose (1.0 mg) was defined, we used this dose for assessing ESP. The same eight females received 1.0 mg/animal for eight days (D-8 to D-1), followed by 0.25 mg of estradiol benzoate on D-8 and 265 g of CP on D0. Feces for fecal progesterone metabolites (FPM) measurement were collected from D0 until seven days after the last day of estrus. Seven females displayed estrus between 12 and 72 h after CP application, which was followed by a significant increase in FPM levels (except female MG6), suggesting the formation of corpus luteum. After ED, females were placed with a fertile male to assess the fertility of the protocol. Pregnancy was confirmed by ultrasound 30 days after mating in 3/6 individuals. Although the low effectiveness of MGA protocol, it should be considered as a promising alternative in deer ESP since this protocol has less stressful effect on the animal during reproductive management when compared to other ESP.

Low invasive estrous synchronization protocol for wild animals: an example with melengestrol acetate in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira)

Deer are sensitive to stressful stimuli by handling and their reproductive physiology could be altered by these procedures, making it necessary to develop less invasive protocols for ART. Melengestrol acetate (MGA), a synthetic progestin administered orally, appears as an alternative for estrous synchronization protocols (ESP), such as reported in cattle. Firstly, we compared two MGA doses (0.5 and 1.0 mg/day/animal), which would have suppression effect in estrous behavior (EB). Eight females were randomly and equally distributed in Group 1 (G1) and Group 2 (G2), which received 0.5 and 1.0 mg/day/animal respectively for 15 days (D1 to D15). Two cloprostenol (CP) applications were performed on D0 and D11. Estrus detection (ED) was performed every day. All females from G1 displayed estrus during treatment period, whereas all females from G2 displayed estrus after treatment, suggesting a suppressive effect of 1.0 mg in the EB. Once the suppressive MGA dose (1.0 mg) was defined, we used this dose for assessing ESP. The same eight females received 1.0 mg/animal for eight days (D-8 to D-1), followed by 0.25 mg of estradiol benzoate on D-8 and 265 g of CP on D0. Feces for fecal progesterone metabolites (FPM) measurement were collected from D0 until seven days after the last day of estrus. Seven females displayed estrus between 12 and 72 h after CP application, which was followed by a significant increase in FPM levels (except female MG6), suggesting the formation of corpus luteum. After ED, females were placed with a fertile male to assess the fertility of the protocol. Pregnancy was confirmed by ultrasound 30 days after mating in 3/6 individuals. Although the low effectiveness of MGA protocol, it should be considered as a promising alternative in deer ESP since this protocol has less stressful effect on the animal during reproductive management when compared to other ESP.(AU)

Assessing the morphological identification of guard hairs from Brazilian deer

ABSTRACT Given the difficulty of collecting biological samples from rare and elusive species, the collection and analysis of hair is a good alternative for the identification and differentiation of mammal species. Our study aimed to test the reliability of the morphological identification of guard hairs from cervids that inhabit Brazil. We collected guard hairs from five body regions (head, neck, side of the thorax, back, and buttocks) of one male and one female of eight Brazilian cervid species, and we analyzed hair cuticular and medullar patterns. We carried out qualitative and quantitative analyses on the morphology of the medullar (total thickness and thickness of the medulla) and cuticular patterns (area and perimeter of the scales) of the guard hairs. Based on the obtained data, we found no notable morphological differences in the cuticular and medullar patterns in the guard hairs. Furthermore, our quantitative analysis demonstrated that the guard hairs are not a useful material for differentiating the Brazilian deer species.

First report of complete albinism in Mazama americana (Erxleben, 1777) in the Biological Reserve of Tapirapé, Oriental Amazon, Brazil

Albinism is a genetic condition that results in total hypopigmentation of the eyes, fur, skin, hair, scales, and feathers of an organism. Albinism might result in a selective disadvantage for affected animals. Cases of albinism have been previously recorded in Neotropical vertebrates, such as reptiles, mammals, birds, and fish. However, observing albinism in a wild population is still considered to be a rare event. This paper reports a unique case of complete albinism in a red-brocket deer (Mazama americana) living in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. The individual was observed within the Biological Reserve of Pará State, one of the most deforested regions of the Brazilian Amazon. The survival of the albino red-brocket deer in the wild can be related to mechanisms of apostatic selection, which theorize the survival of individual prey animals whose mutations make them less likely to be attacked by predators. In other words, the more different a prey animal is from others, the less likely it will be targeted by predators. The high abundance prey animals within the Biological Reserve of Tapirapé seems to support this prediction. This report exemplifies the importance of monitoring the biodiversity and promoting the conservation of favorable habitats to support species multiplicity in highly fragmented regions, as in the Brazilian Amazon.

First report of complete albinism in Mazama americana (Erxleben, 1777) in the Biological Reserve of Tapirapé, Oriental Amazon, Brazil EN

Albinism is a genetic condition that results in total hypopigmentation of the eyes, fur, skin, hair, scales, and feathers of an organism. Albinism might result in a selective disadvantage for affected animals. Cases of albinism have been previously recorded in Neotropical vertebrates, such as reptiles, mammals, birds, and fish. However, observing albinism in a wild population is still considered to be a rare event. This paper reports a unique case of complete albinism in a red-brocket deer (Mazama americana) living in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. The individual was observed within the Biological Reserve of Pará State, one of the most deforested regions of the Brazilian Amazon. The survival of the albino red-brocket deer in the wild can be related to mechanisms of apostatic selection, which theorize the survival of individual prey animals whose mutations make them less likely to be attacked by predators. In other words, the more different a prey animal is from others, the less likely it will be targeted by predators. The high abundance prey animals within the Biological Reserve of Tapirapé seems to support this prediction. This report exemplifies the importance of monitoring the biodiversity and promoting the conservation of favorable habitats to support species multiplicity in highly fragmented regions, as in the Brazilian Amazon.(AU)

Food habits of the Cougar Puma concolor (Carnivora: Felidae) in the Central Andes of the Colombian Coffee Region

Abstract The feeding habits of the cougar have been scarcely studied in Colombia, despite its importance in the ecosystems it inhabits. In this study, we analysed the diet of the cougar using 53 feces samples collected from several sites in the Central Andes of Colombias Coffee Growing Region. To identify prey species, we examined and compared bone fragments and hairs found in each sample with descriptions published in relevant literature and with specimens from the Natural History Museum of the Universidad de Caldas, Colombia. We found that rabbits (Sylvilagus sp.) provided half of the relative biomass consumed by the cougar (50%). Other preys identified belong to representatives of medium and large mammals such as marsupials (Didelphis: 10%), sloths (Choloepus: 9%), rodents (Coendou: 10%, Cuniculus: 9%), and deer (Mazama: 9%). Of the preys, Coendou rufescens has not, to our knowledge, been previously included in cougar diet literature. The curve of accumulation of species indicated that the number of samples obtained in this work fully describe the diet of this feline. Neither domestic species were recorded in this work, nor were there any relationships between the dry or rainy seasons and the consumption of prey species. The comparison of the information reported in this study and others carried out in the Andes may indicate the general nature of this felines diet and its adaptability to the prey species found in each area, since these vary in each one of them. It is probable that the obtained trophic niche value (0.33) is due to the abundance of rabbits present in the study area. It is also probable that the cougar has not consumed domestic species since, although it is close to cattle ranches, it has enough of wild prey in the area to supply its needs. The results of this study may help to improve our understanding of the feeding habits of this predator and its interaction with other species in this important region of Colombia. This will, in turn, promote major comprehension of the role of cougars in the Colombian Cordilleras and lead actions for their conservation.