RESUMEN
The cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) faces vulnerability primarily due to unregulated fishing, resource overexploitation, and habitat degradation. Consequently, individuals maintained under human care play a pivotal role in species conservation, particularly when their welfare is prioritized. Achieving optimal welfare in aquarium settings relies heavily on effective management practices, notably environmental enrichment. However, research on the efficacy of such techniques for cownose rays remains limited. Thus, this study sought to evaluate the impact of various food enrichment items on the behavior of four individuals at the São Paulo Aquarium in Brazil. The project encompassed three phases: baseline, enrichment, and post-enrichment. Enrichment items, designed to mimic the species’ natural foraging behavior, included an ice block containing food, food hidden in vegetables fixed to structures at the bottom of the tank, a tray with substrate and food, and a perforated plastic container with food inside. Behavioral observations utilized focal sampling with instantaneous recording every minute. Results showed increased foraging activity in the post-enrichment phase, whereas swimming increased and following behaviors decreased during the enrichment phase. Additionally, foraging behaviors predominantly occurred near the aquarium bottom. Overall, findings suggest that enrichment items effectively stimulated natural behaviors in cownose rays and were very attractive to the fish, advocating for their integration into species management protocols to enhance welfare.
RESUMEN
The in situ population of jaguars in the Caatinga is less than 250 individuals, subdivided into five subpopulations, and is classified as endangered regarding its risk of extinction. Luisa, a 15-year-old female weighing 36 kg, was the last known ex situ jaguar from this biome. Her reproductive evaluation is detailed in this manuscript. Luisa was subjected to both a clinical and laparoscopic evaluation of her reproductive system. After 45 days of reproductive investigation, she died unexpectedly, and skin fragments were taken to establish the postmortem fibroblast lineage. At the clinical evaluation, Luisa had small, undeveloped mammary gland and a small vulva, characteristic of a nulliparous female, with no mammary gland nodules, edema, or abnormal masses. By laparoscopy, normal-appearing bladder and bowel loops were observed, as were uterine horns with standard color, shape, and length with no striae. Ovaries and uterine horns seem free of fibrinous adhesions. Both ovaries showed a yellowish color, a fibrous consistency, a decreased size (atrophied), and no follicles, hemorrhagic corpus, corpus luteum, luteal scars, or other abnormal structures. We may assume that this jaguar female was infertile based on Luisa's mature age and the absence of birthing or ovarian activity signs. The harsh conditions of the Caatinga biome, which included low food availability and frequent conflicts with humans, may have impacted both the pregnancy and lactation of Luisa's mother and her development after birth.
RESUMEN
The cryopreservation of jaguar semen must be improved to produce high-quality biobanking doses. Until now, the rare studies of semen freezing in the species have only evaluated glycerol, always with a significant reduction in sperm quality in thawed semen. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of three cryoprotectants, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol (GLY), and methanol (MET), in the cryopreservation of jaguar semen in an LDL-based extender, as well as the effect of thawing temperature on dosage quality. Five mature males with a history of reproduction were used. On the males, an infrared thermal image (IRT) was captured, the spicules and testes were analyzed, and the CASA system was used to evaluate the quality of fresh and thawed sperm. The superficial IRT was 4.6 ± 1.2 °C cooler than the anal sphincter, and the semen measured between 27.3 and 28.7 °C shortly after exiting the urethra. The total motility of fresh sperm was 55.3 ± 22.6%, and progressive motility was 36.3 ± 18%. The total motility of thawed sperm was 5.28 ± 2.51%, 4.49 ± %2.49, and 0.51 ± 0.62% for DMSO, GLY, and MET, respectively. DMSO and GLY performed better than MET, and there was no difference in thawing temperature (37°C 30 s vs. 50°C 12 s). All animals exhibit a considerable level of morphological changes in sperm. Low amounts of total and progressive motility were found in the thawed sperm. Males with a high level of sperm morphological changes were found to be fertile, but the lone male with normospermia was infertile. Thus, we contest the applicability of the commonly used morphological classification for bovines to felid species.
RESUMEN
The complexity of the habitat refers to its physical geometry, which includes abiotic and biotic elements. Habitat complexity is important because it allows more species to coexist and, consequently, more interactions to be established among them. The complexity of the habitat links the physical structure of the enclosure to the biological interactions, which occur within its limits. Enclosure complexity should vary temporally, to be able to influence the animals in different ways, depending on the period of the day and season and throughout the year. In the present paper, we discuss how habitat complexity is important, and how it can positively influence the physical and mental states of zoo animals. We show how habitat complexity can ultimately affect educational projects. Finally, we discuss how we can add complexity to enclosures and, thus, make the lives of animals more interesting and functional.
RESUMEN
Capybaras are the primary hosts of Amblyomma sculptum tick, vectors of Rickettsia rickettsia bacteria, and the zoonotic agent of Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF). In this context, contraceptive methods have been suggested for population control in order to reduce the number of free-ranging capybaras cohabiting with humans in urban and rural areas and acting as disease amplifiers. To maintain the group's expected behavior and social hierarchy, sterilization techniques that preserve the gonads are recommended. On 126 female capybaras in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, a new surgical technique named "Passos Nunes" uterine horn ligature was performed after adequate general anesthesia. It achieved effective surgical sterilization, with an incision length of about 3 cm in the periumbilical linea alba, cranial to the pubis. After entering the abdominal cavity, the urinary bladder is pulled laterally to access the uterine horns and the cervix. The uterine horn is folded up, forming a strap; the distal portion of the strap is ligated and its distal end sectioned. The exact process is performed on the opposite horn. After the surgical procedure, the musculature is sutured in a sultan pattern and the subcutaneous tissue with a horizontal mattress pattern. The skin is sutured in a separate simple format, using nylon 2.0 for all steps. The wide exposure of the uterine horns facilitates the confirmation of pregnancy, allowing the surgeon to choose between salpingo hysterectomy or ligature of the uterine horns. The present study presents a new technique of surgical sterilization that can be used in female free-ranging mammals in which maintenance of the gonads is recommended, and births of offspring should not occur.
RESUMEN
The current global situation requires urgent decision-making to reverse processes of mass extinction of thousands of species. As a way of showing the importance of joint actions in this process, we aim to present the concept of One Conservation as a new proposal for the integration of sustainability, in situ and ex situ conservation for the restoration of ecosystems. According to the United Nations, we are beginning the decade of ecosystem restoration and in association with the International Union for Conservation of Nature guidelines, we can join efforts in the conservation of the planet. The survival of many species of wild animals depends on the management of populations currently maintained in ex situ conditions (under human care). To facilitate the exchange of genetic material between in situ and ex situ populations, reproductive biotechniques have become a great tool, making it possible to restore species in their natural environments. For effective conservation to occur, there must be an integrated view of the problem as a whole, and action for solutions must take place jointly by different spheres of society. Even more, conservation must be carried out by the public sector, the private sector, the third sector, and not less importantly, the agricultural sector. Therefore, One Conservation is defined as an interconnection between ex situ and in situ conservation plans, anthropic actions in the environment, and research in different areas that encompass conservation.
RESUMEN
The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is being threatened by natural habitat destruction and fragmentation, illegal hunting and road kills. In this context, the generation of basic information on the reproductive parameters of this species is vital, aiming to improve reproductive management via, amongst others, assisted reproductive technologies. This study aimed to describe the morphological and functional features of semen collected from captive giant anteaters. Electroejaculation was performed in 13 animals housed in zoos located in São Paulo state, Brazil. Semen samples were collected from 13 animals in 16 procedures. Samples were evaluated for volume, motility, vigor, pH, concentration, sperm morphology, and functional tests. The following mean values were obtained: volume 1.28 ± 0.27 mL; motility 28.3 ± 6.2%; vigor 2.4 ± 0.25; concentration 129.4 ± 36.1 × 106 sperm/mL; pH 7.4 ± 0.2. Total acrosome, head, midpiece, and tail sperm abnormalities were 3.2 ± 0.8%, 25.4 ± 3.6%, 20.7 ± 3.2%, and 14.7 ± 2.6%, respectively. Intact acrosome was found in 83.7 ± 3.1% and intact membrane in 81.1 ± 4.0% of all samples collected. Mitochondrial activity was 66.4 ± 6.0% (Class I), 18.7 ± 2.9% (Class II), 8.0 ± 2.0% (Class III), 3.9 ± 1.0% (Class IV), and 3.0 ± 0.9% (Class V). Sperm DNA fragmentation rate was 13.2 ± 3.7%. These results indicated that electroejaculation is a feasible method for semen collection in giant anteaters, allowing a more detailed description of the semen in this species.
Asunto(s)
Animales de Zoológico , Euterios/fisiología , Análisis de Semen/veterinaria , Animales , Brasil , Conservación de los Recursos NaturalesRESUMEN
In ex situ conditions, little is known about the reproductive biology of meerkats. The aim of present study was to describe the morphological aspects of male genital organs and accessory glands using macroscopic evaluation, ultrasonography, and radiography, as well as describing semen characteristics post-electroejaculation. The results indicated anatomical characteristics of meerkats are very similar to those of cats, having a prostate, accessory bulbourethral glands, and an elongated and radiopaque structure in the penis, which is indicative of there being a baculum. The testicular volume was 0.81 cm³ (± 0.10) and the relative testis weight was 1.37 cm³/kg (± 0.15). Both testicles are present in the scrotum, which has an ellipsoidal shape, homogeneous texture, hypoechoic parenchyma and are encased in a hyperechoic tunica albuginea. Electroejaculation was effectively induced in all animals for semen collection with utilization of medetomidine and ketamine. The values semen samples variables were as follows for volume - 0.125⯱â¯0.193â¯mL, motility - 19.8⯱â¯18.6 %, vigor - 1.9⯱â¯1.0, concentration - 40.5⯱â¯25.2â¯×â¯106 sperm/mL and morphologically normal sperm - 10.8⯱â¯6.6 %. This is the first study in which there is a description of morphological and imaging aspects of the male reproductive tracts of meerkats, as well as the seminal characteristics after using electroejaculation for semen collection. Knowledge of anatomical and seminal characteristics is essential for implementation of assisted reproduction programs, as well as reproductive management in the species.
Asunto(s)
Genitales Masculinos/anatomía & histología , Herpestidae/fisiología , Análisis de Semen/veterinaria , Espermatozoides/fisiología , Animales , Animales de Zoológico , Herpestidae/anatomía & histología , MasculinoRESUMEN
Psittacidae are very susceptible to chronic stress and behavioral disorders. Information regarding the endocrinology of the golden conure is scarce, especially about adrenocortical activity. Endocrine studies using non-invasive methods are useful, because they allow longitudinal analysis with high numbers of samples without causing additional stress and are viable in the psittacidae management. The objective was to physiologically validate an enzyme immunoassay for measuring glucocorticoid metabolites (GCMs) in this species. Serial droppings were collected from 16 animals. First, one subgroup received adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH; Synacthen Depót®) and the other group served as controls. This procedure was reversed afterwards. All birds presented self-mutilation approximately 6 hours after the ACTH injection. This behavior disappeared after two days. Peak concentrations (on average nine times higher than baseline values) of GCMs were found 6 (4-8) hours after ACTH administration; in all (but one) animals also a second peak was found 14 (10-20) hours post injection. GCM levels returned to the baseline after 24 h. We physiologically validated a cortisone enzyme immunoassays to measure adrenocortical activity in the golden conure. Such non-invasive methods are important for studies, which are related to welfare, reproductive, and conservation programs. In addition, we could demonstrate a link between increased glucocorticoid levels and behavioral disorders.
RESUMEN
Threatened of extinction in Brazil, the jaguar is the largest predator in Latin America, playing an important role in the ecosystem where it is inserted. Despite of some important studies in this species, its reproductive physiology needs to be better understood for the development of more effective reproductive biotechnologies. One well studied biological aspect is the occurrence of ovulation following stimulation of the vaginal floor during copulation. This mechanical stimulation is responsible for the induction of ovulation in domestic and wild cats. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate whether ovulation in captive jaguars can be induced by the above-mentioned mechanical stimulation but also by other forms of sensory stimulation. Nine jaguar (Panthera onca) females and six males were divided into three groups: Group 1 (four females), in which the females were close to the males, but with no possibility of copulation; Group 2 (three females), in which the females were in the same enclosure as the males, thereby being able to copulate; and Group 3 (two females), in which the females were completely isolated from any male of the species. Follicular growth was stimulated by administration of 800 IU of eCG, conducted three or five days before LOPU. In order to have certainty about the occurrence of ovulation, the ovaries were assessed by laparoscopy allowing the visualization of ovarian structures including follicles, recent ovulations, corpora hemorrhagica (CH) and corpora lutea (CL). Multiple CH were observed in the 2 females housed with males, as well as the two females kept in proximity of males, i.e. only visual contact (Group 1). None of the females in complete isolation from males showed CH or ovulation spots (Group 3). In summary, the seven females in contact or near proximity with males had multiple ovulations, regardless of copulation or not. Based on this evidence, we have established that jaguars are capable of two forms of induced ovulation: 1) the "mechanical" coitus-induced form that is traditional and thoroughly described for felines; 2) a "sensorial" form in which the nearby presence of a male can induce ovulation through the visual, olfactory and/or auditive senses. Further research is required for establishing the mechanisms and chemical mediators of sensorial stimulation. In addition, and consistent with expected results, we confirmed that females that received the same stimulation are incapable of ovulating when not exposed to any form of stimulation by males.
Asunto(s)
Copulación/fisiología , Ovulación/fisiología , Panthera/fisiología , Animales , Femenino , MasculinoRESUMEN
Cryptorchidism is a genital alteration wherein one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum and has multifactorial causes. A free-range adult male was captured twice in the Pantanal of Nhecolândia to put a GPS collar and semen collection. Pharmacological semen collection, andrological examination and semen analysis were performed. At the first capture and during the andrological examination only the left testis was found, and the male qualified as cryptorchid. The penis had no penile spines at either procedure. The semen volume obtained at first and second capture was 435 and 160 µL, respectively, with a concentration of 618 and 100 x 106 sperm/mL, progressive motility of ~ 5% and ~ 1% and total morphological sperm abnormalities of 74% and 86%. The male was monitored by a GPS collar, but the signal was lost, making it difficult to re-captures and perform new seminal and ultrasound evaluations to discard monorchidism - exceedingly rare in felids. Genetic studies to assess the individual's homozygosity are necessary to verify whether cryptorchidism in this individual has a genetic factor.
RESUMEN
Being able to study anatomical structures of wildlife species for science and clinical practice is of great importance. We aimed to describe the normal gross osteology of the common adult capybara Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Linnaeus, 1766), using macerated bone specimens and high-resolution digital radiography. The complete axial and appendicular skeleton was further compared with previously reported anatomical findings. For this purpose, we used three adult capybara cadavers (two females and one male), with a mean bodyweight of ±50 kg. Some H. hydrochaeris-specific morphological characteristics, especially in the skull region, show evidence of adaptation to aquatic life, such as an elongated head shape, with eyes, ears, and nose, located dorsally, to stay above water. Additionally, the entire bone structure demonstrates the size and weight support of the largest rodent and its adaptation with respect to foraging and locomotion behaviors. As a semi-aquatic herbivore, classified as cursorial (having limbs adapted for running), the authors believe it should be reclassified as cursorial-swimming/diving. Moreover, we argue to consider a differentiation between H. hydrochaeris silvestris to H. hydrochaeris synanthrope, due to substantial weight variation, in some cases > 100%. This inevitably has an impact on the development of bone structure, thus influencing habitual adaptation, and consequently, its clinical implications and animal handling. Radiography exams helped in the identification of bone structures, which otherwise were not observed in anatomical specimens, such as ossa sesamoidea, including the ossiclelunulae. Likewise, the radiographs were particularly helpful in overall better comprehension of the intubation and catheterization procedures. We believe this work can contribute as a reference to anatomical studies for students and professionals acting in clinic, surgery, and research.(AU)
Ser capaz de estudar estruturas anatômicas dos animais da fauna para fins científicos e prática clínica é de grande importância. Objetivamos descrever a osteologia geral normal de capivaras adultas Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Linnaeus, 1766), usando amostras de ossos macerados e radiologia digital de alta resolução. O esqueleto axial e apendicular foi posteriormente comparado a achados anatômicos reportados anteriormente. Para esse fim, nós utilizamos de três cadáveres de capivaras adultas (duas fêmeas e um macho) com peso médio de cerca de 50 kg. cada. Algumas características morfológicas de cavidade específicas, especialmente na região do crânio, evidenciam a adaptação à vida aquática, como o formato alongado da cabeça, com olhos, orelhas e nariz localizados dorsalmente, para permanência sobre a água. O completo desenvolvimento morfológico ósseo é evidência de tamanho e suporte de peso do maior roedor, assim como de seus hábitos de alimentação e locomoção, sendo um herbívoro semiaquático, classificado como cursório (tendo membros adaptados à corrida), caso em que os autores acreditam deveria ser reclassificado como cursorial-natação/mergulho. Além disso, argumentamos que deve ser considerada uma diferenciação entre H. hydrochaeris silvestris e H. hydrochaeris sinantropo, devido ao fato da variação substancial de peso, em alguns casos> 100%, inevitavelmente terá um impacto no desenvolvimento da estrutura óssea, influenciando, assim, a adaptação habitual e, consequentemente, suas implicações clínicas e manejo animal. A radiografia auxiliou na correlação e identificação de estruturas ósseas que não observadas em espécimes anatômicos, como o osso sesamóide, incluindo o ossículo lunar. Ademais, as radiografias foram particularmente úteis para uma melhor compreensão geral de procedimentos de intubação e cateterização. Acreditamos que este trabalho possa contribuir como referência de estudos anatômicos para estudantes e profissionais atuantes em clínica, cirurgia e pesquisa.(AU)
Asunto(s)
Animales , Roedores/anatomía & histología , Intensificación de Imagen Radiográfica/métodos , Osteología/métodosRESUMEN
ABSTRACT: Groups of capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are currently frequent inhabitants of urban areas. The species participates in the transmission cycle of Brazilian spotted fever (BSF), a zoonosis that is caused by the bacteria R. rickettsii and transmitted by vector ticks. This has led to discussions on strategies to decrease the presence of this rodent through contraceptive methods and euthanasia, thus reducing their capacity to carry and transport ticks, which would be an important contribution to public health. Two condominiums and one business establishment in the interior of the state of São Paulo were used as case studies in the present investigation. All areas were classified by the Endemic Control Superintendence as risk areas for the transmission of BSF and presented the specie of ticks A. sculptum and A. dubitatum The objective of this study was to carry out sterilization procedures with animals that presented seropositive results for BSF. A total of 85 surgical procedures were conducted on immune capybaras, with authorization from DeFau/SMA-SP. For all procedures the animals were anesthetized with ketamine hydrochloride combined with xylazine and morphine. Two alpha males isolated themselves from the group after the vasectomy procedure, returning to their hierarchical position after 5 to 14 days. Population monitoring in the areas should be maintained indefinitely and conducting annual serological management until the natural death of these individuals. Tubal ligation, vasectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy were demonstrated to be simple and low-risk procedures in capybaras. These techniques assist in the population control of this species in enclosed areas with risk of BSF transmission, thus decreasing the need for euthanasia.
RESUMO: Grupos de capivaras (H. hydrochaeris) são atualmente habitantes frequentes de áreas urbanas. A espécie participa do ciclo de transmissão da febre maculosa brasileira (FMB), uma zoonose causada pela bactéria R. rickettsii e transmitida por carrapatos vetoriais. Isso levou a discussões sobre estratégias para diminuir a presença desse roedor por meio de métodos contraceptivos e eutanásia, reduzindo sua capacidade de carrear e transportar carrapatos, o que seria uma importante contribuição para a saúde pública. Dois condomínios e um estabelecimento comercial no interior de São Paulo foram utilizados como estudos de caso na presente investigação. Todas as áreas foram classificadas pela Superintendência de Controle Endêmico como áreas de risco para a transmissão da FMB e apresentaram a espécie do carrapato A. sculptum e A. dubitatum. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar procedimentos de esterilização com animais que apresentaram resultados soropositivos para a FMB. Foram realizados 85 procedimentos cirúrgicos em capivaras imunes, com autorização do DeFau / SMA-SP. Para todos os procedimentos, os animais foram anestesiados com cloridrato de cetamina combinado com xilazina e morfina. Dois machos alfa se isolaram do grupo após o procedimento de vasectomia, retornando à sua posição hierárquica após 5 a 14 dias. O monitoramento populacional nas áreas deve ser mantido indefinidamente e conduzindo-se o manejo sorológico anual até a morte natural desses indivíduos. Foi possível demonstrar que a ligação tubária, vasectomia e salpingo-ooforectomia são procedimentos de baixo risco em capivaras. Essas técnicas auxiliam no controle populacional desta espécie em áreas fechadas e com risco de transmissão de FMB, diminuindo a necessidade de eutanásia.
RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Brazilian spotted fever (BSF), a lethal tick-borne Rickettsioses (2000 - 2018 >600 human deaths) involving synanthropic capybara as host. METHODS: We introduced an alternative to mitigate human-capybara conflicts and epidemiologic concerns of BSF. Complex aspects like transmission dynamics, risk areas, host mobility, and birth rate control, were considered to develop a prevention strategy using an anti-GnRH vaccine. RESULTS: The propositioned immunocontraceptive potentially remove and prevent the spread of BSF from endemic areas. CONCLUSIONS: We propose the anti-GnRH vaccine as a BSF prevention strategy based on these favorable results.
Asunto(s)
Anticoncepción Inmunológica/veterinaria , Hormona Liberadora de Gonadotropina/inmunología , Fiebre Maculosa de las Montañas Rocosas/prevención & control , Roedores/parasitología , Vacunas Anticonceptivas/administración & dosificación , Animales , Brasil , Anticoncepción Inmunológica/métodos , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Regulación de la Población/métodos , Fiebre Maculosa de las Montañas Rocosas/transmisión , Garrapatas/microbiologíaRESUMEN
Controlling wildlife populations to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and the spread of zoonotic diseases is an ever-growing necessity. The objective of this study was to evaluate a single-dose anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine (GonaCon, USDA/NWRC, Fort Collins, CO, USA) as a non-lethal alternative for population control in free-ranging, synanthropic male capybara. In addition to infertility efficacy of this treatment, potential effects on the alpha male's secondary sexual characteristics and agonist behavior need to be assessed because any alterations in these factors could lead to population management failure. The treatment group (nâ¯=â¯3) received 1â¯mL of the anti-GnRH vaccine, intramuscularly, and the control group (nâ¯=â¯2) a 1â¯mL sham vaccine. Reproductive behavior and social group dynamics were monitored for 30 days prior to inoculation (June 2017) with continuous observations occurring during the study period. Antifertility effects were assessed by conducting exams of testicular morphology, semen characteristics, and histological analysis (after 270 days via hemi-gonadectomy). Compared to the control group, the testicles of the treated males had severe atrophy (Pâ¯<⯠0.05), oligozoospermia and greater numbers of sperm cells in a static developmental phase. Courtship and agonistic alpha male behavior were not altered, and the group's social integrity was maintained. Results indicate there was 100% infertility in capybara males, observed throughout the study period of 18 months, and equally important, the male's alpha characteristics were not affected by the treatment, which is imperative for successful capybara population control efforts.
Asunto(s)
Conducta Agonística , Anticoncepción Inmunológica/métodos , Anticonceptivos Masculinos/uso terapéutico , Roedores/fisiología , Conducta Sexual Animal , Vacunas Anticonceptivas/uso terapéutico , Conducta Agonística/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Animales Salvajes , Anticoncepción Inmunológica/veterinaria , Anticonceptivos Masculinos/administración & dosificación , Relación Dosis-Respuesta a Droga , Femenino , Hormona Liberadora de Gonadotropina/antagonistas & inhibidores , Hormona Liberadora de Gonadotropina/inmunología , Masculino , Regulación de la Población/métodos , Reproducción/efectos de los fármacos , Roedores/inmunología , Análisis de Semen/veterinaria , Conducta Sexual Animal/efectos de los fármacos , Testículo/efectos de los fármacos , Potencia de la Vacuna , Vacunas Anticonceptivas/administración & dosificaciónRESUMEN
Prior to the administration of any anesthetics, capturing the semi-aquatic capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) demands physical restraint, which presents immense challenges. Traditional methods, such as lassoing and traps, are prone to induce acute stress, may result in injury, and can even have fatal outcomes. As part of a larger population control project using contraceptive methods, frequent capture-induced stress and injury may directly affect normal reproductive physiology. Thus, choosing a less stress-inducing method was imperative. In this report, we describe methods of conditioning to enable frequent capture and manipulation, using bait as a positive reinforcement associated with a special click-sound, in a free-ranging populationof 40 capybaras. The objectives were to attract, herd, and allow capybaras to voluntarily enter a coral. We evaluated the conditioning effect on individual and group behaviors, interpreting vocal and body language manifestations during the processes of conditioning, herding, capture, and recovery (post procedure/chemical restraint), with the aim of minimizing capture-related stress and injuries. Based on our observations, we report that conditioning, used as part of the capture strategies, noticeably facilitated physical restraint and manipulation throughout the procedures, while apparently maintaining the animals overall welfare as it relates to conditioning and capture.
Asunto(s)
Animales , Anestesia , Estrés Mecánico , Roedores/metabolismoRESUMEN
Abstract INTRODUCTION: Brazilian spotted fever (BSF), a lethal tick-borne Rickettsioses (2000 - 2018 >600 human deaths) involving synanthropic capybara as host. METHODS: We introduced an alternative to mitigate human-capybara conflicts and epidemiologic concerns of BSF. Complex aspects like transmission dynamics, risk areas, host mobility, and birth rate control, were considered to develop a prevention strategy using an anti-GnRH vaccine. RESULTS: The propositioned immunocontraceptive potentially remove and prevent the spread of BSF from endemic areas. CONCLUSIONS: We propose the anti-GnRH vaccine as a BSF prevention strategy based on these favorable results.
Asunto(s)
Humanos , Animales , Masculino , Femenino , Roedores/parasitología , Fiebre Maculosa de las Montañas Rocosas/prevención & control , Hormona Liberadora de Gonadotropina/inmunología , Anticoncepción Inmunológica/veterinaria , Vacunas Anticonceptivas/administración & dosificación , Garrapatas/microbiología , Brasil , Fiebre Maculosa de las Montañas Rocosas/transmisión , Regulación de la Población/métodos , Anticoncepción Inmunológica/métodosRESUMEN
Human-wildlife conflicts, a growing and sad reality worldwide, makes population control of wildlife and feral animals one of the biggest challenges in wildlife management, especially due to the rapidly expanding human population, and consequently the ever-diminishing natural habitats of animals. Human activities and the destruction of nature forcing wildlife to move inevitably into urban and agricultural areas, causing "conflicts", such as the risk of zoonosis and traffic accidents, as well as damage to crops in the search for food, whose losses reach millions of dollars. For decades, science has been engaged in extensive efforts to develop methods of "humane" population control methods, and many techniques are being employed in order to control wildlife population. In this article, we present an overview of applied contraceptive methods with simplified graphic demonstrations of their interactions with reproductive physiology, furthermore relating pro and contra of utilized antifertility agents. These are being compared to a set of desired characteristics for free-ranging wildlife for in-field applications, with emphasis on reversible immunocontraception concluding, therefore, the reasons why this concept is becoming the most appropriate and promising for free-ranging wildlife.(AU)
Os conflitos Humanos-Animais Selvagens são uma realidade crescente e triste no mundo inteiro, tornando o controle populacional da fauna silvestre e animais ferais o maior desafio, principalmente diante do crescimento da população humana e, consequentemente, da diminuição dos habitats naturais dos animais. As atividades humanas e a destruição da natureza, forçam os animais de vida livre a se dirigirem para áreas urbanas e agrícolas, inevitavelmente, causando conflitos, como o risco de zoonoses, acidentes de trânsito, bem como danos às plantações, quando em busca de alimentos, cujo prejuízo chega a milhões de dólares. Durante décadas, a ciência esteve empenhada em esforços extensivos para desenvolver métodos de controle populacional "humano"; e muitas técnicas foram utilizadas, a fim de se realizar um controle populacional destes animais silvestres. Neste artigo será apresentada uma visão geral dos métodos anticoncepcionais aplicados, com demonstrações gráficas simplificadas de suas interações com a fisiologia reprodutiva, bem como relacionando os prós e os contras dos agentes antifertilidade empregados; também serão comparados com um conjunto de características desejadas para as aplicações em fauna a campo, com ênfase em imunocontracepção reversível, concluindo assim, com as razões do porque este conceito torna-se o mais apropriado e promissor para animais silvestres de vida livre.(AU)
Asunto(s)
Animales , Animales Salvajes/fisiología , Anticoncepción/veterinaria , Regulación de la Población/métodos , Fenómenos Fisiológicos Reproductivos/efectos de los fármacos , Desequilibrio Ecológico/prevención & controlRESUMEN
Empirical studies proved that C-peptides are performing numerous intrinsic biological roles, and serve as a marker for pancreatic performance analysis. Since the last decade, C-peptide assays for differential diagnosis in veterinary diabetic patients are becoming more available, but still only for a very limited number of species. Studies on C-peptide as a diagnostic tool, therapy for associated complications, or as replacement therapies for C-peptide deficiency still showed not to be a common practice in veterinary medicine. This review was conducted to determine the potential importance of C-peptide in Veterinary Medicine, relevant in the diagnosis of diabetes and for other metabolic processes, as well as its proposed therapeutic benefits. Numerous articles were identified that reported positive results in their experimental studies, whether C-peptide as a biomarker for pancreatic performance in dogs, cats, and horses, as a non-invasive method to monitor nutritional status in primates, or to investigate its potential therapeutic benefits for diabetes-related illnesses.(AU)
Os estudos empíricos provaram que o peptídeo C realiza várias funções biológicas intrínsecas e serve também como um marcador para a análise de desempenho do pâncreas. Nesta última década os ensaios peptídeo C para o diagnóstico diferencial em doentes diabéticos veterinários estão mais disponíveis, contudo apenas em um limitado número de espécies. Estudos sobre C-peptídeo como ferramenta de diagnóstico, terapia de complicações associadas ou como terapias de reposição na sua deficiência ainda não é prática comum na Medicina Veterinária. Esta avaliação foi realizada para determinar a importância potencial de peptídeo C na Medicina Veterinária, relevante no diagnóstico de diabetes e também em outros processos metabólicos, assim como os benefícios terapêuticos propostos. Foram identificados numerosos artigos que reportaram resultados positivos nos seus estudos experimentais, quer o peptídeo C fosse utilizado como biomarcador para o desempenho do pâncreas em cães, gatos e cavalos, como um método não invasivo para monitorar o estado nutricional em primatas, quer para investigar o seu potencial terapêutico benéfico para doenças relacionadas ao diabetes.(AU)
Asunto(s)
Animales , Péptido C/uso terapéutico , Diabetes Mellitus/diagnóstico , Diabetes Mellitus/metabolismo , Diabetes Mellitus/terapia , Diabetes Mellitus/veterinaria , Evaluación de Síntomas/veterinariaRESUMEN
A comunicação do estado reprodutivo nos primatas da família Callithrichidae, depende principalmente dos comportamentos sócio-sexuais como um sistema de sinalização primário, uma vez que nestas espécies a ovulação não é percebida pelos machos. Neste trabalho, os padrões de comportamentos sócio-sexuais foram analisados em conjunto com as concentrações de metabólitos fecais dos esteróides sexuais progesterona (MFP), estradiol (MFE) e testosterona (MFT) em casais cativos de Sagüi-de-tufos-pretos (Callithrix penicillata), nas diferentes fases do ciclo ovariano. O grupo estudado era composto por quarto casais adultos, mantidos no Centro de Reabilitação de Animais Selvagens da prefeitura de São Paulo. Os padrões comportamentais foram registrados pelo método de amostragem focal por intervalo de tempo a cada 30 segundos, cinco vezes por semana, totalizando 14.400 registros por animal. A mensuração das concentrações de metabólitos fecais dos esteroides sexuais foram realizados pelo método de enzima imunoensaio (EIE). Os resultados obtidos dessas concentrações possibilitaram a determinação endócrina das fases do ciclo ovariano (folicular e luteal) e de suas respectivas durações, assim como a determinação da fase periovulatória. Foram caracterizados 31 ciclos ovarianos completos, com duração de 24,3±4,1 dias (média ±DP), sendo que a fase folicular compreendeu 13,04±4,8dias e a fase lútea 11,2±4,2 dias. Os comportamentos sócio-sexuais (marcação por cheiro, cheirar genitália, catação e apresentação sexual) e a variável "proximidade" mostraram-se significativamente mais prevalentes na fase periovulatória do que nas demais fases do ciclo. Não houve alteração das concentrações de MFT dos machos ao longo de todo o período estudado. A análise conjunta das concentrações de metabólitos fecais de esteróides sexuais e dos comportamentos sócio-sexuais possibilitou um melhor entendimento das relações endócrino-comportamentais e reprodutivas de C. penicillata.
The communication of the female reproductive status in Callithrichidae relies mainly on the socio-sexual behavior, as generally the ovulation is concealed in this primate family by a primary signaling system. In this study the socio-sexual behavior patterns was analyzed in association with the concentration of fecal metabolites of sex steroid hormones progesterone (MFP), estradiol (MFE) and testosterone (MFT) in captive couples of Black-Tufted-Marmoset (Callithrix penicillata), during the different phases of the ovarian cycle. The studied group was composed of four adult couples kept in the São Paulo City Wild Animals Rehabilitation Center. The behavioral patterns were record by focal samplings, with 30 seconds intervals for each observation, five days a week, totalizing 14.400 registers per animal. The measurement of fecal metabolites of progesterone (MFP), estradiol (MFE) and testosterone (MFT) proceeded by enzyme immune assay (EIA). The results allowed to determine the duration of the ovarian cycle and to characterize three different phases (follicular, periovulatory and luteal). It was possible to determine 31 complete cycles that lasted 24.3±4.1 days (Mean ± SD). The follicular and luteal phases lasted 13.04±4.8 and the luteal phase 11.2±4.2 days. The behavioral patterns (scent marking, sniff genitals, grooming and sexual presentation) were more prevalent in the periovulatory phase as the behavioral variable "proximity" as well. There were no variations in the concentration of MFT in the males during the period studied. The associated analyses of the fecal metabolite of sex steroids and the socio-sexual behaviors led to a better understanding of the factors involved in the reproduction of C. penicillata.