Psoralges libertus mite infestation in Tamandua tetradactyla: a 127-year gap in the literature due to scarcity of reports.

This study addresses the report of Psoralges libertus mite infestations in Southern Tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) after a 127-year gap in the literature, detailing clinical conditions, histopathological findings, and mite identification via morphology. The research broadens our understanding of mite habitats, highlighting challenges in managing parasitic health in free-ranging and captive animals. It underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance for conservation and public health, including potential zoonotic concerns. A P. libertus report in T. tetradactyla after over a century highlights the scarcity of publications on mite-induced mange in this mammalian species. Investigating potential P. libertus' impacts on tamanduas' well-being necessitates further research, particularly regarding pathogenicity, agent epidemiology, and host interaction. This study enhances our comprehension of parasite-host interactions and their relevance to wildlife conservation.

Survey of the feeding management of giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) and tamanduas (Tamandua tetradactyla) in the EAZA ex-situ programme.

Feeding giant anteaters and tamanduas as insectivorous species provides a lot of challenges for zoological institutions. In the last decades an in-house mixture, called 'Dortmund mixture', was the most common feed used in giant anteaters and tamanduas in many countries within the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria ex-situ Programme (EEP). Some nutritional problems occurred due to imbalances in the diets. The more recent nutritional recommendations for both species advise an adapted and balanced complete feed formulated for insectivorous species due to different problems arising with an in-house mixed feed as Dortmund mixture. To objectify the present situation a questionnaire was designed and sent out to 78 institutions of the EEPs for giant anteater(s) and tamandua(s). The questionnaire was divided into different sections and asked for data on husbandry, health status, feeding, especially feed composition, feed supplementation and faecal consistency. It was completed by 45 institutions with data for 130 animals, 89 giant anteaters and 41 tamanduas. The data thus represent 54% and 59% of the EEP populations. For both species, a complete feed is mainly utilised. Especially institutions that have integrated anteaters and tamanduas into their facilities during the last 10 and 20 years, use a complete feed. Regarding the in-house mixtures, there are distinct differences, both in composition and amount of each ingredient used. The evaluation of the feeds used for enrichment, for example, shows a clear species difference. While in tamanduas mainly insects are used for this purpose, in giant anteaters it is mainly fruits and avocado. In contrast to the past, many anteaters today are fed an adapted complete feed. Surprisingly, concerning feeding supplements the use of fat-soluble vitamins and combined vitamin-mineral preparations is still common in both species. More effort needs to be put into enforcing current feeding recommendations, especially for the giant anteaters.

"Mi Casa, Tu Casa": the coati nest as a hub of Trypanosoma cruzi transmission in the southern Pantanal biome revealed by molecular blood meal source identification in triatomines.

BACKGROUND: The study of the ecology of Trypanosoma cruzi is challenging due to its extreme adaptive plasticity, resulting in the parasitism of hundreds of mammal species and dozens of triatomine species. The genetic analysis of blood meal sources (BMS) from the triatomine vector is an accurate and practical approach for gathering information on which wild mammal species participate in a local transmission network. South American coatis, Nasua nasua, act as important reservoir host species of T. cruzi in the Pantanal biome because of their high rate of infection and elevated parasitemia, with the main discrete typing unit (DTU) lineages (TcI and TcII). Moreover, the carnivore coati is the only mammal species to build high arboreal nests for breeding and resting that can be shared by various vertebrate and invertebrate species. Herein, we applied the sensitive and specific methodology of DNA barcoding and molecular cloning to study triatomines found in a coati nest to access the diversity of mammal species that explore this structure, and therefore, may be involved in the parasite transmission network. METHODS: Twenty-three Triatoma sordida were collected in one coati's nest in the subregion of Nhecolândia, Pantanal. The DNA isolated from the gut of insects was subjected to BMS detection by PCR using universal primers that flank variable regions of the cytochrome b (cytb) and 12S rDNA mitochondrial genes from vertebrates. The Trypanosoma spp. diagnosis and DTU genotyping were based on an 18S rDNA molecular marker and also using new cytb gene primers designed in this study. Phylogenetic analyses and chord diagrams were constructed to visualize BMS haplotypes, DTU lineages detected on vectors, and their interconnections. RESULTS: Twenty of 23 triatomines analyzed were PCR-positive (86.95%) showing lineages T. cruzi DTU TcI (n = 2), TcII (n = 6), and a predominance of TcI/TcII (n = 12) mixed infection. Intra-DTU diversity was observed mainly from different TcI haplotypes. Genetic analyses revealed that the southern anteater, Tamandua tetradactyla, was the unique species detected as the BMS of triatomines collected from the coati's nest. At least three different individuals of T. tetradactyla served as BMS of 21/23 bugs studied, as indicated by the cytb and 12S rDNA haplotypes identified. CONCLUSIONS: The identification of multiple BMS, and importantly, different individuals of the same species, was achieved by the methodology applied. The study demonstrated that the southern anteaters can occupy the South American coati's nest, serving as the BMS of T. sordida specimens. Since anteaters have an individualist nonsocial behavior, the three individuals detected as BMS stayed at the coati's nest at different times, which added a temporal character to BMS detection. The TcI and TcII infection, and significantly, a predominance of TcI/TcII mixed infection profile with different TcI and TcII haplotypes was observed, due to the discriminatory capacity of the methodology applied. Tamandua tetradactyla, a host which has been little studied, may have an important role in the T. cruzi transmission in that Pantanal subregion. The data from the present study indicate the sharing of coatis' nests by other mammal species, expanding the possibilities for T. cruzi transmission in the canopy strata. We propose that coatis' nests can act as the true hubs of the T. cruzi transmission web in Pantanal, instead of the coatis themselves, as previously suggested.

Diet composition of an escaped captive-born southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) in a nonnative habitat in Asia.

Studies on the role of natural predatory instincts in captive-born mammalian myrmecophagy are rare. Consequently, researchers rely extensively on case reports to learn more about the contexts in which predatory behavior occurs among such animals. In this study, we recorded an uncommon case of a captive-born southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) that accidentally escaped from a zoo into a nonnative habitat in Asia. The southern tamandua was found alive 3 months later. Two fresh fecal samples were obtained, and the diet composition was examined. Three termite species (one family, three genera), and 14 ant species (four subfamilies, nine genera) were identified in the fecal samples. The studied southern tamandua preyed on terrestrial and arboreal ants and termites, as the wild populations of its species do. Ants of the subfamily Myrmicinae and termites of the subfamily Nasutitermitinae were the most abundant prey items in the samples, which is consistent with related reports on the wild populations. Soldier ants constituted <1% of the prey items in the fecal samples, suggesting that the southern tamandua likely avoided preying on ants of the soldier caste. Fungus-growing termites Odontotermes (Isoptera: Macrotermitinae), which are not native to neotropical regions, were also ingested by the southern tamandua. This study provides information on how a captive-born mammalian myrmecophagy applies its natural feeding instincts in nonnative natural settings.

Registro de melanismo en Tamandua tetradactyla (Pilosa: Myrmecophagidae) en Perú / Record of melanism in Tamandua tetradactyla (Pilosa: Myrmecophagidae) in Perú

Resumen Se registra un caso de melanismo en Tamandua tetradactyla (Myrmecophagidae), con base en un individuo observado en el departamento de Huánuco, Perú. En la base de datos de iNaturalist se encuentran dos registros anteriores. Con este registro, el número de especies de mamíferos melanísticos en el Perú aumenta a cuatro. Cabe señalar que ya se han reportado casos de melanismo en esta especie en el Neotrópico.

Abstract A case of melanism in Tamandua tetradactyla (Myrmecophagidae) is recorded, based on an individual observed in the Huánuco Department, Peru. Two previous records are found in the iNaturalist database. With this record, the number of melanistic mammal species in Peru increases to four. It should be noted that cases of melanism in this species have already been reported in the Neotropics.

Reparo de lesão vascular não letal causada por tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) no Brasil / Repair of non-lethal vascular injury caused by giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) in Brazil

Resumo O tamanduá-bandeira é um mamífero encontrado na América Central e na América do Sul. Esse animal possui garras que podem chegar a 6,5 cm de comprimento, utilizadas para escavar formigueiros e obter alimento, além de servir para sua defesa. Relatamos o caso de paciente masculino de 52 anos, com histórico de epilepsia, que foi levado desacordado ao pronto-socorro, devido a lesões no seu braço direito causadas por um tamanduá. Frente à suspeita de trauma vascular, o paciente foi submetido a exploração cirúrgica, que evidenciou uma lesão combinada de vasos braquiais, submetida a reparo. Apresentou boa evolução do quadro, recebendo alta hospitalar no segundo dia de pós-operatório e, no seguimento ambulatorial, evoluiu sem sequelas neurológicas ou vasculares.

Abstract The giant anteater is a mammal found in Central and South America. These animals have claws that can reach 6.5 centimeters in length, which they use to dig anthills to obtain food and for defense. We report the case of a 52-year-old male patient with a history of epilepsy who was taken unconscious to the emergency room due to injuries to his right arm caused by an anteater. He underwent surgical exploration to investigate suspected vascular trauma, revealing a combined (arterial and venous) injury of the brachial vessels, which were repaired. He recovered well and was discharged on the second postoperative day. During outpatient follow-up he continued to improve, with no neurological or vascular sequelae.

Comparative mitogenome phylogeography of two anteater genera (Tamandua and Myrmecophaga; Myrmecophagidae, Xenarthra): Evidence of discrepant evolutionary traits.

The species within Xenarthra (sloths, anteaters, and armadillos) are quintessential South American mammals. Of the three groups, Vermilingua (anteaters) contains the fewest extant and paleontological species. Here, we sampled and sequenced the entire mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of two Tamandua species (Tamandua tetradactyla and Tamandua mexicana) (n=74) from Central and South America, as well as Myrmecophaga tridactyla (n=41) from South America. Within Tamandua, we detected three different haplogroups. The oldest (THI) contained many specimens with the T. tetradactyla morphotype (but also several with the T. mexicana morphotype) and originated in southeastern South America (currently Uruguay) before moving towards northern South America, where the THII haplogroup originated. THII primarily contained specimens with the T. mexicana morphotype (but also several with the T. tetradactyla morphotype) and was distributed in Central America, Colombia, and Ecuador. THI and THII yielded a genetic distance of 4%. THII originated in either northern South America or "in situ" in Central America with haplogroup THIII, which consisted of ~50% T. mexicana and 50% T. tetradactyla phenotypes. THIII was mostly located in the same areas as THII, i.e., Central America, Ecuador, and Colombia, though mainly in the latter. The three haplogroups overlapped in Colombia and Ecuador. Thus, T. tetradactyla and T. mexicana were not reciprocally monophyletic. For this reason, we considered that a unique species of Tamandua likely exists, i.e., T. tetradactyla. In contrast to Tamandua, M. tridactyla did not show different morphotypes throughout its geographical range in the Neotropics. However, two very divergent genetic haplogroups (MHI and MHII), with a genetic distance of ~10%, were detected. The basal haplogroup, MHI, originated in northwestern South America, whereas the more geographically derived haplogroup, MHII, overlapped with MHI, but also expanded into central and southern South America. Thus, Tamandua migrated from south to north whereas Myrmecophaga migrated from north to south. Our results also showed that temporal mitochondrial diversification for Tamandua began during the Late Pliocene and Upper Pleistocene, but for Myrmecophaga began during the Late Miocene. Furthermore, both taxa showed elevated levels of mitochondrial genetic diversity. Tamandua showed more evidence of female population expansion than Myrmecophaga. Tamandua experienced population expansion ~0.6-0.17 million years ago (Mya), whereas Myrmecophaga showed possible population expansion ~0.3-0.2 Mya. However, both taxa experienced a conspicuous female decline in the last 10 000-20 000 years. Our results also showed little spatial genetic structure for both taxa. However, several analyses revealed higher spatial structure in Tamandua than in Myrmecophaga. Therefore, Tamandua and Myrmecophaga were not subjected to the same biogeographical, geological, or climatological events in shaping their genetic structures.

Arterial medial calcification (Mönckeberg's sclerosis) with chronic renal disease in a zoo-kept Southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla).

Arterial medial calcification observed in animals is equivalent to Mönckeberg's sclerosis in human beings. This lesion is rarely reported in domestic animals. In addition, little information is available concerning the occurrence of arterial medial calcification in zoo animals. The aim of the current work was to report arterial medial calcification incidentally encountered in a Southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla). This paper described the clinical findings, haematological and serum biochemical profiles, and histopathological results. Haematological examinations showed decreases in white blood cell counts, erythrocytic parameters and platelets. In serum biochemical examinations, both of the creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels markedly increased in this study. Glucose concentrations dramatically declined from the normal levels to the critical conditions. There was electrolytic imbalance which was not accompanied by increases in calcium and inorganic phosphorus concentrations. Enzyme activities (ALP, AST, ALP, γ-GT, LDH and CK) remarkably increased just before the animal died. Histopathological examinations revealed that this marked and thickened calcification extended linearly around the circumference of the vessels. The calcified deposits were located entirely within the medial layer of the arterial wall. The lesions showed involvement of the internal elastic lamina with calcification. Severe calcification was observed in the glomerular capsules, indicating serious chronic kidney disease. We concluded that arterial medial calcification in the Southern tamandua arose with progressing chronic kidney failure.

Registro de coloración anormal del oso hormiguero norteño Tamandua mexicana (Saussure, 1860) y notas sobre su límite sur de distribución / Abnormal coloration record of the northern tamandua Tamandua mexicana (saussure, 1860) and notes on its southernmost distribution

Resumen Presentamos el registro de un individuo de oso hormiguero norteño (Tamandua mexicana) con color de pelaje anormalmente blanco. Este individuo fue fotografiado con una cámara trampa en el bosque seco ecuatorial en el departamento de Lambayeque, a 560 m de altitud, en del noroeste del Perú. No pudimos diferenciar si la causa de esta aberración cromática correspondió a un caso de albinismo o de leucismo, sin embargo, destacamos este primer registro excepcional para la especie en Perú. Adicionalmente, hacemos una revisión de su presencia en el extremo sur de su distribución global.

Abstract We present the record of an individual of northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana) with abnormal white coloration that was photographed with a camera trap in the equatorial dry forest in the department of Lambayeque, at elevation of 560 m, northwest Peru. We could not determine if this chromatic aberration was a case of leucism or albinism, but we highlight this uncommon record as the first for Peru. We also revised the information about its presence in the southern portion of its global range.

Multivariate Analyses of the Activity Pattern and Behavior of the Lesser Anteater on Open and Closed Days at Córdoba Zoo, Argentina.

The human factor is one of the major determinants of animal welfare in zoos. Assessing changes in activity patterns, behavior and space use due to human presence might help understanding visitors' influence on these animal welfare indicators. In Córdoba (Argentina), we assessed the activity pattern and behavior of Tamandua tetradactyla (lesser anteaters; n = 5) during natural light/dark phases and the animals' use of space. We analyzed responses of lesser anteaters to humans in days open to the public (Sundays and Tuesdays) and days closed to the public (Mondays), collecting data at 5-minute intervals during 12 days, for each animal. Data were analyzed at two temporal scales: a 24 h period and visiting hours. Multivariate analyses showed no differences in activity pattern, behavior and space use among days, exhibiting a consistent response of each individual over the studied days. Principal Component Analysis showed differences between female and male behaviors. Based on these results, the visitor effect on these lesser anteaters would appear to be neutral, indicating that the presence of visitors is at most, a minor concern in the housing and management of these individuals in Córdoba Zoo.

Caracterização da fauna helmintológica de tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) e tamanduá-mirim (Tamandua tetradactyla) atropelados nas rodovias BR-050 e BR-455 (Minas Gerais, Brasil) / [Helmintological characterization of giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) and lesser anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) roadkilled on BR-050 and BR-455 highways (Minas Gerais, Brazil)]

O tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) e o tamanduá-mirim (Tamandua tetradactyla) são mamíferos xenartros amplamente distribuídos no território nacional. Apesar disso, suas populações estão em constante ameaça, principalmente o primeiro, categorizado como vulnerável de acordo com classificação da União Internacional para Conservação da Natureza. Diante disso e da escassez de estudos com endoparasitas nesses animais, objetivou-se descrever a helmintofauna dessas duas espécies de tamanduá, utilizando espécimes atropelados nas rodovias BR-050 e BR-455, região do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Os animais foram submetidos à necropsia, tendo seus órgãos e conteúdo intestinal e estomacal examinados para recuperação de helmintos. Os parasitos coletados foram identificados com base em suas características morfológicas e morfométricas. As espécies/os gêneros caracterizados para M. tridactyla e T. tetradactyla, suas respectivas prevalências, bem como órgãos de origem, foram: Gaphidiops dissimilis (33,33% e 0%) no estômago; Gigantorhynchus echinodiscus (25% e 66,66%) no intestino delgado; Physaloptera magnipapilla (50% e 66,6%) no estômago; e Mathevotaenia spp. (25% e 66,66%) no intestino delgado. Physaloptera magnipapilla foi a espécie com os maiores índices de infecção, e novo registro de localização foi registrado para o nematódeo Graphidiops dissimilis. Detectou-se uma provável sobreposição da área de vida dos tamanduás estudados, bem como uma helmintofauna característica da região.(AU)

Myrmecophaga tridactyla, giant anteater and Tamandua tetradactyla, collared anteater are nationally widespread mammals. Despite that, their populations are in danger, especially the first one, categorized as vulnerable according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This study reports the occurrence of helminths in these two anteater species using road killed specimens from BR-050 and BR-455 highways, Triângulo Mineiro region, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The species were necropsied, and their gastrointestinal organs and contents were opened and examined for parasite recovery. The identification was based on morphological and morphometric features. The species/ genera found for M. tridactyla and T. tetradactyla, their prevalence, as well the organs, were: Gaphidiops dissimilis (33.33% and 0%) in stomach; Gigantorhynchus echinodiscus (25% and 66.66%) in small intestine; Physaloptera magnipapilla (50% and 66.6%) in stomach and Mathevotaenia spp. (25% and 66.66%) in small intestine. Physaloptera magnipapilla was the most common species and a new location was reported for Graphidiops dissimilis. There is a probable overlap in the home range of these animals and a local helminth diversity was described on the study site.(AU)

Macroscopic and microscopic morphology of the trachea and lungs of giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) / Morfologia macroscópica e microscópica da traqueia e pulmões do tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

Giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is a wild mammal distributed in Central and South America; nowadays, it is classified as an endangered species. Research about the macroscopic and histomorphological aspects of its respiratory tract is scarce, and, sometimes, it limits the treatment provided to sick animals and impairs species preservation. Thus, the present study aims to describe the macroscopic and microscopic morphology of its lower respiratory tract, including trachea and lungs. To do so, 12 adult giant anteaters from "Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres de Goiânia" (CETAS-GO), Goiás State, Brazil, were used in the research after natural death or euthanasia. Three of these animals were used for macroscopic assessments; they were fixed in 10% buffered formalin and dissected. Trachea and lung tissue samples were collected from nine animals right after death and fixed in 10% buffered formalin for histomorphological analysis; they were processed, embedded in paraffin, and inked with hematoxylin-eosin (HE), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson's trichrome. The macroscopic analysis showed that the trachea in this species is proportionally short and presents from 19 to 27 tracheal cartilages. The right lung presents four lobes and the left one, two. The microscopic analysis evidenced respiratory epithelium of the ciliated cylindrical pseudostratified type, without evident goblet cells in the mucosa layer of the trachea and bronchi. The pulmonary visceral pleura is thick, similar to other large domestic mammals - complete septa extend from the pulmonary visceral pleura. In conclusion, the macroscopy and histomorphology of giant anteater's lower respiratory tract, represented by trachea and lungs, are similar to that of other domestic and wild mammals. Pulmonary histomorphology is mainly similar to that of pigs and ruminants: it has thick visceral pleura that emits complete septa of conjunctive tissue, which enable lobular parenchymal architecture.(AU)

O tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) é um mamífero silvestre com distribuição na América Central e do Sul e, atualmente, encontra-se classificado como ameaçado de extinção. Pesquisas acerca dos aspectos macroscópicos e histomorfológicos do seu sistema respiratório são escassas, o que, por vezes, limita o tratamento e o manejo de eventuais animais doentes, bem como a preservação da espécie. Desse modo, o objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a morfologia macroscópica e microscópica do aparelho respiratório inferior do tamanduá-bandeira, incluindo traqueia e pulmões. Para tanto, foram utilizados 12 tamanduás-bandeiras adultos, provenientes do Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres de Goiânia (CETAS-GO), Goiás, Brasil, após morte natural ou eutanásia. Destes, três foram utilizados para o estudo macroscópico, sendo fixados em formalina tamponada a 10% e dissecados. Para a análise histomorfológica, amostras teciduais da traqueia e do pulmão foram colhidas de nove animais logo após o óbito, fixadas em formalina tamponada a 10%, processadas, incluídas em parafina e coradas com hematoxilina e eosina (HE), ácido periódico-Schiff (PAS) e tricrômico de Masson. À análise macroscópica notou-se que a traqueia é proporcionalmente curta, apresentando 19 a 27 cartilagens traqueais. O pulmão direito apresenta quatro lobos e o esquerdo dois. À análise microscópica foi constatado epitélio respiratório do tipo pseudoestratificado cilíndrico ciliado, sem células caliciformes evidentes na camada mucosa da traqueia e dos brônquios. A pleura visceral pulmonar é espessa, assim como nos grandes mamíferos domésticos, e, a partir desta, estendem-se septos completos. Conclui-se que a macroscopia e a histomorfologia do sistema respiratório inferior do tamanduá-bandeira, representado pela traqueia e pulmões, são semelhantes àquelas de outros mamíferos domésticos e silvestres. A histomorfologia pulmonar é especialmente semelhante à de suínos e ruminantes, com a pleura visceral espessa e emitindo septos completos de tecido conjuntivo, que conferem arquitetura parenquimal lobular.(AU)

Pathology of Free-Ranging and Captive Brazilian Anteaters.

There is little information on the anatomical pathology of Brazilian anteaters. Considering the relevance of knowledge of diseases of these species for their conservation, the aim of this study was to describe pathological changes in 99 captive and free-ranging anteaters from the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Mato Grosso do Sul and Amazonas. Forty-two animals were killed on roads and 10 died from burns injuries. Other significant conditions included the metabolic diseases of iron storage disease, tissue mineralization and taurine deficiency, protozoan and metazoan infections, candidiasis, sporotrichosis, clostridiosis and proliferative disorders including squamous cell carcinoma.

Anátomo-radiografia dos ossos longos do membro torácico do Tamandua tetradactyla / Anatomo-radiography of long-bones in thoracic limb ofTamandua tetradactyla

Objetivou-se descrever os acidentes anatômicos dos ossos longos do membro torácico de Tamandua tetradactyla por meio de análises macroscópicas e radiográficas. Foram utilizados 34 espécimes, que foram a óbito por atropelamento. A avaliação do úmero demonstrou as mesmas estruturas presentes nos animais domésticos, além de outras sem prévia descrição. Já no antebraço, rádio e ulna se apresentaram completamente separados, e apesar de, como o úmero, serem identificados alguns dos mesmos acidentes anatômicos descritos em outras espécies, também notamos particularidades. Todas as estruturas descritas na análise macroscópica foram identificadas à radiografia, quando realizada em pelo menos duas projeções ortogonais. As estruturas anátomo-radiográficas dos ossos longos do T. tetradactyla demonstraram grande variação anatômica em comparação a outros mamíferos, o que torna a referida espécie muito singular. Assim o conhecimento de suas particularidades é fundamental para abordagens clínico-cirúrgicas mais seguras.

The objective was to describe the anatomical accidents of the long bones of the thoracic limb of Tamandua tetradactyla by means of macroscopic and radiographic analyzes. We used 34 specimens, which were deaths by running over. Evaluation of the humerus demonstrated the same structures present in domestic animals, besides others without previous description. In the forearm, radius and ulna were completely separated, and although, like the humerus, some of the same anatomical accidents described in other species were identified, we also noticed particularities. All the structures described in the macroscopic analysis were identified on radiography, when performed in at least two orthogonal projections. The anatomic-radiographic structures of the long bones of T. tetradactyla showed great anatomical variation compared to other mammals, which makes the species very unique. Thus knowledge of their particularities is fundamental for safer clinical-surgical approaches.

Anátomo-radiografia dos ossos longos do membro torácico do Tamandua tetradactyla / Anatomo-radiography of long-bones in thoracic limb of Tamandua tetradactyla

Objetivou-se descrever os acidentes anatômicos dos ossos longos do membro torácico de Tamandua tetradactyla por meio de análises macroscópicas e radiográficas. Foram utilizados 34 espécimes, que foram a óbito por atropelamento. A avaliação do úmero demonstrou as mesmas estruturas presentes nos animais domésticos, além de outras sem prévia descrição. Já no antebraço, rádio e ulna se apresentaram completamente separados, e apesar de, como o úmero, serem identificados alguns dos mesmos acidentes anatômicos descritos em outras espécies, também notamos particularidades. Todas as estruturas descritas na análise macroscópica foram identificadas à radiografia, quando realizada em pelo menos duas projeções ortogonais. As estruturas anátomo-radiográficas dos ossos longos do T. tetradactyla demonstraram grande variaçãoanatômica em comparação a outros mamíferos, o que torna a referida espécie muito singular. Assim o conhecimento de suas particularidades é fundamental para abordagens clínico-cirúrgicas mais seguras.

The objective was to describe the anatomical accidents of the long bones of the thoracic limb of Tamandua tetradactyla by means of macroscopic and radiographic analyzes. We used 34 specimens, which were death by running over. Evaluation of the humerus demonstrated the same structures present in domestic animals, besides others without previous description. In the forearm, radius and ulna were completely separated, and although, like the humerus, some of the same anatomical accidents described in other species were identified, we also noticed particularities. All the structures described in the macroscopic analysis were identified on radiography, when performed in at least two orthogonal projections. The anatomic-radiographic structures of the long bones of T. tetradactyla showed great anatomical variation compared to other mammals, which makes the species very unique. Thus knowledge of their particularities is fundamental for safer clinical-surgical approaches.

Characterization of coronary arteries in Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae) / Caracterização da artéria coronária em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae)]

Were used twelve (12) adult anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adults, 6 (six) males and 6 (six) females, weighing from 20 to 27.32kg from free life. The thoracic cavity was opened until visualization of the whole heart and lungs and later injection of the coronary vessels. The right coronary artery emerged through a single coronary ostium of the aorta, 50%, emitting the intermediate branch and the subsinuous interventricular branch, had a path directed to the subsurface interventricular groove. In the other 50%, the right coronary artery was not present, showing only its branches, intermediate branch and subsurface interventricular branch with emergence of the aorta. Left coronary artery presented, in 83.33%, origin from the aorta in single ostium, issuing the circumflex and interventricular paraconal branches. In 16.66%, the left coronary artery was not evidenced originating from the aorta, but its branches, circumflex and interventricular paraconal.(AU)

Foram utilizados 12 tamanduás-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adultos, sendo seis machos e seis fêmeas, pesando de 20 a 27,32kg, provenientes de vida livre. Foi realizada abertura da cavidade torácica até a visualização do conjunto coração e pulmões e, posteriormente, injeção dos vasos coronários. A artéria coronária direita emergia, 50% dela, por um único óstio coronário da aorta, emitindo o ramo intermédio e o ramo interventricular subsinuoso; tinha trajeto direcionado ao sulco interventricular subsinuoso. Nos outros 50%, a artéria coronária direita não estava presente, exibindo somente seus ramos, ramo intermédio e ramo interventricular subsinuoso com emergência da aorta. A artéria coronária esquerda apresentou, em 83,33%, origem a partir da aorta em óstio único, emitindo os ramos circunflexo e interventricular paraconal. Em 16,66%, a artéria coronária esquerda não foi evidenciada originando-se da aorta, mas, sim, de seus ramos, circunflexo e interventricular paraconal.(AU)

The role of sloths and anteaters as Leishmania spp. reservoirs: a review and a newly described natural infection of Leishmania mexicana in the northern anteater.

For years, mammals of the order Pilosa have been considered Leishmania reservoirs. But while most studies have focused on sloth species, anteaters have been overlooked, and in many Leishmania endemic countries like Mexico, no studies have been carried out. The aims of this work were to identify the presence of Leishmania spp. in tissue samples from road-killed northern tamanduas (Tamandua mexicana), using PCR amplification and sequencing of ITS1 DNA, and to discuss the role of Pilosa mammals as reservoirs of Leishmania based on available scientific records. This is the first study that identifies Leishmania in T. mexicana, from 1 of 16 individuals analyzed, so the estimated prevalence (CI 95%) of infection was 6.3% (0.3-27.2). Amplified sequence exhibited a 98.9% (727/735) similarity with L. mexicana, and phylogenetic analysis grouped the species in the L. mexicana-amazonensis cluster. The literature review revealed 241 cases of Leishmania spp. infection among 1219 Pilosa mammals evaluated, with prevalence between studies ranging from 3.5% in the brown-throated three-toed sloth (Bradypus variegatus) to 78% in the Hoffman's two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni). Current scientific information indicates that C. hoffmanni sloths are reservoirs of Leishmania, and further studies are needed in order to clarify if other Pilosa species play a role in Leishmania transmission.

Canine distemper virus active infection in order Pilosa, family Myrmecophagidae, species Tamandua tetradactyla.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly contagious disease pathogen which causes disease in the domestic dog and species classified in the Canidae, Procyonidae, Mustelidae, Hyaenidae, Ursidae, Viveridae, Felidae, Tayassuidae, and Cercopithecidae families. A combined strategy that involved the direct sequencing of amplicons from genes coding for nucleocapsid, large polymerase, and hemagglutinin proteins of CDV, as well as the pathological findings and the immunohistochemical detection of viral nucleocapsid protein in diverse tissues, confirmed the participation of CDV in the development of a neurological disease in a southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) from Midwestern Brazil. Phylogenetic analysis based on the hemagglutinin gene sequences revealed that the strain from this study grouped with isolates from the Europe 1/South America 1 lineage. The specific polymorphisms at the SLAM receptor-binding site of the hemagglutinin gene, previously linked to disease emergence in novel hosts, were not detected in this genome. These findings represent the first description of CDV-induced infection in the Tamandua tetradactyla and extend the distribution of this infection to include members of the family Myrmecophagidae, order Pilosa.

Biochemical parameters of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla Linnaeus, 1758) of the Brazilian Cerrado / Parâmetros bioquímicos de tamanduás-bandeiras (Myrmecophaga tridactyla Linnaeus, 1758) do cerrado brasileiro

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is classified as a vulnerable species on Brazil's list of species at risk of extinction mainly due to deforestation and forest fires. This has contributed to a considerable increase in detailed clinical case records of the treatment of wild species at veterinary institutions. However, the paucity of serum biochemical profiles of healthy giant anteaters has made it difficult to evaluate these animals, preventing diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. The objective of this work was to collect data about the biochemical profile of healthy giant anteaters from the Brazilian Cerrado raised in captivity, in order to better understand the physiological characteristics inherent to this species. Eighteen analytes from 12 healthy giant anteaters were measured. The following means and standard deviations were found in the biochemical analyses: albumin 3.29±0.33g/dL, ALT 15.49±7.98 IU/L, amylase 1037.92±149.04 IU/L, AST 21, 12±7.50 IU/L, total cholesterol 62.79±20.08mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 14.73±4.98mg/dL, LDL cholesterol 26.60±11.05mg/dL, VLDL cholesterol 2.14±1.06mg/dL, CK 111.61±70.16 IU/L, creatinine 1.05±0.37mg/dL, iron 194.64±81.17µg/dL, GGT 65.18±54.57 IU/L, glucose 103.71±29.63mg/dL, globulins 2.76±0.36g/dL, lipase 28.80±5.11 IU/L,TSP 6.05±0.56g/dL, triglycerides 10.71±5.29mg/dL, and urea 53.46±18.28mg/dL. The values found in this study can be used as references for the laboratory evaluation of giant anteaters living in conditions similar to those of this study. This is one of the first reports of biochemical examinations on giant anteaters of the Cerrado biome.(AU)

O tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) está classificado como espécie vulnerável na lista brasileira de espécies ameaçadas de extinção devido principalmente ao desmatamento e aos incêndios florestais. Tal fato contribuiu com o aumento da casuística de atendimento de espécies silvestres em instituições veterinárias. Porém, a escassez de valores bioquímicos séricos em tamanduás-bandeiras hígidos tem dificultado a avaliação destes animais, impedindo o diagnóstico, tratamento e prognóstico. O objetivo deste trabalho foi fornecer dados sobre o perfil bioquímico de tamanduás-bandeiras saudáveis do cerrado brasileiro, criados em cativeiro, a fim de compreender melhor as características fisiológicas inerentes a esta espécie. Foram mensurados 18 analitos de 12 tamanduás-bandeiras hígidos. As médias e o desvio padrão correspondentes às análises bioquímicas foram: albumina 3,29±0,33g/dL; ALT 15,49±7,98 UI/L; amilase 1037,92±149,04 UI/L; AST 21, 12±7,50 UI/L; colesterol total 62,79±20,08mg/dL; colesterol HDL 14,73±4,98mg/dL; colesterol LDL 26,60±11,05mg/dL; colesterol VLDL 2,14±1,06mg/dL; CK 111,61±70,16 UI/L; creatinina 1,05±0,37mg/dL; ferro 194,64±81,17µg/dL; GGT 65,18±54,57 UI/L; glicose 103,71±29,63mg/dL; globulinas 2,76±0,36g/dL; lipase 28,80±5,11 UI/L; PST 6,05±0,56g/dL; triglicerídeos 10,71±5,29mg/dL; ureia 53,46±18,28mg/dL. Os valores encontrados neste estudo podem ser utilizados como referência para a avaliação laboratorial de tamanduás-bandeiras que vivam em condições similares ao do presente estudo. Este é um dos primeiros estudos a relatar exames bioquímicos em tamanduás-bandeiras do bioma cerrado.(AU)

Effect of increasing taurine and methionine supplementation on urinary taurine excretion in a model insectivore, the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla).

The giant anteater (Mymercophaga tridactyla) is a highly specialized insectivore for which nutrient requirements are not clearly established, making diet formulation challenging for this species. Multiple clinical reports suggest anteaters have an obligate dietary taurine (TAU) requirement. Sulphur amino acid (SAA) metabolism in adult anteaters was evaluated using noninvasive methods to measure TAU synthesis potential from dietary methionine (MET) and a basal diet containing on a dry matter (DM) basis 1.7 mg TAU/kg DM and 6.9 g MET/kg DM. Urinary equilibrium times for TAU excretion were determined by feeding the basal diet with or without 1.5 g/kg DM supplemental TAU (crossover design; n = 4). Effects of supplemental dietary TAU (1.7, 2.0, 2.4, 2.7, 3.0, 3.3 g/kg DM) or MET (6.9, 9.0, 11.2 g/kg DM) on urinary TAU were evaluated (randomized block trials; n = 5 or 4 respectively). All urinary values (TAU, MET, unbound inorganic sulphate) were normalized to creatinine (CRT). Results indicate urinary TAU equilibrium in anteaters requires at least 2 weeks of feeding. Urinary ratio of TAU to CRT (TAU:CRT) increased as dietary TAU content increased from 1.7 to 3.0 g/kg DM, consistent with renal homoeostatic modulation of TAU excretion. Our data indicate that TAU needs were met by TAU in the basal diet or by de novo synthesis. Supplemental MET resulted in ~five- to eightfold increases in urinary TAU:CRT excretion, further supporting existence of mechanisms for TAU synthesis from dietary SAA in anteaters. Adult anteaters appear able to synthesize TAU when diets contain adequate SAA, but dietary TAU may be critical if protein intakes are low or of poor quality. This study may provide guidance on choice of domestic canids vs. felids as suitable physiologic models for improved nutrition in giant anteaters, and also outlines a noninvasive method for assessing TAU status/metabolism that may be useful across species.