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Summary
Black piedra, a fungal infection, was found in 21 of 72 chimpanzee pelts from Zaïre. Mycological characteristics suggest it may be Piedraia quintanilhae, though further identification is needed.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Veterinary Pathology
- Primate Health
Context:
- Black piedra is a fungal infection affecting hair.
- This study examined museum specimens of chimpanzees (Pan paniscus and Pan satyrus) from Zaïre.
- Previous research on black piedra in non-human primates is limited.
Purpose:
- To investigate the prevalence of black piedra in chimpanzee pelts.
- To characterize the mycological features of the infection in vivo.
- To compare the observed characteristics with known Piedraia species.
Summary:
- Black piedra was identified in 21 out of 72 museum pelts of chimpanzees originating from Zaïre.
- In vivo mycological observations, while not definitive for species identification, closely resembled those of Piedraia quintanilhae.
- The findings suggest a potential presence of P. quintanilhae in these primate populations.
Impact:
- This research contributes to understanding fungal infections in non-human primates.
- It highlights the importance of museum collections for epidemiological studies.
- Further research could confirm the species and its implications for primate health.