Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
Isolation and characterization of unusual Mycoplasma spp. from captive Eurasian Griffon (Gyps fulvus) in Sicily
G R Loria1, E Ferrantelli, G Giardina
1Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale of Sicily, Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, Palermo 90129, Italy.
Abstract:
Mycoplasmas have been isolated from birds of prey during clinical examinations, but their significance to the health of raptors is unclear. We report the isolation and characterization of four mycoplasmas found in the upper respiratory tract of four sick Eurasian Griffon (Gyps fulvus) that were housed in a Sicilian rehabilitation center at Ficuzza, near Palermo in Sicily, before reintroduction into the wild. These included Mycoplasma gallinarum, an unidentified mycoplasma highly similar to Mycoplasma glycophilum, and two unidentified mycoplasmas with similarities to Mycoplasma falconis and Mycoplasma gateae.
Insights
Researchers identified four Mycoplasma species in the respiratory tracts of sick Eurasian Griffon vultures. This study clarifies the presence of mycoplasmas in birds of prey, impacting raptor health assessments.
Area of Science:
- Avian medicine
- Microbiology
- Wildlife health
Background:
- Mycoplasma presence in birds of prey is documented but their health impact remains unclear.
- Raptors are susceptible to various pathogens, necessitating thorough health evaluations.
Observation:
- Four sick Eurasian Griffon (Gyps fulvus) vultures in a Sicilian rehabilitation center were examined.
- Mycoplasmas were isolated from the upper respiratory tract of these birds.
Findings:
- Identified Mycoplasma gallinarum.
- Isolated an unidentified Mycoplasma species closely related to Mycoplasma glycophilum.
- Discovered two novel Mycoplasma species with similarities to Mycoplasma falconis and Mycoplasma gateae.
Implications:
- This research contributes to understanding the role of Mycoplasma in raptor respiratory health.
- Findings aid in diagnosing and managing Mycoplasma infections in birds of prey.
- Establishes a baseline for Mycoplasma identification in Eurasian Griffons for conservation efforts.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Phylum Tenericutes
Atypical Pneumonia

