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Avian pox in Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus)
Olivia J Kane1, Marcela M Uhart, Virginia Rago
1Department of Biology, University of Washington, 24 Kincaid Hall, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. oliviaj@u.washington.edu
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|June 29, 2012
Summary
Avian pox virus sporadically affects Magellanic Penguin chicks in Argentina, causing fatal lesions. Phylogenetic analysis suggests long-term circulation of seabird Avipoxviruses in the southwest Atlantic.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Avian Pathology
- Wildlife Disease Ecology
Background:
- Avian pox is a viral disease affecting birds, transmitted mechanically by arthropods or direct contact.
- Avian pox (Avipoxvirus) has been observed sporadically in Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) at Punta Tombo and Cabo Dos Bahías, Argentina, between 1982-2010.
- Lesions typically appear on the beak, flippers, cloaca, feet, and eyes, with fleas (Parapsyllus longicornis) suspected as vectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of avian pox in Magellanic Penguins.
- To identify the avian pox virus and its phylogenetic relationship with other strains.
- To understand the potential transmission dynamics and implications for seabird populations.
Main Methods:
- Field observations of pox-like lesions in Magellanic Penguins over 29 breeding seasons.
- Sampling and molecular analysis (phylogenetics) of Avipoxvirus from affected chicks.
- Comparison of viral genetic sequences with known Avipoxvirus strains from other seabird species.
Main Results:
- Sporadic avian pox cases were recorded in five (Punta Tombo) and two (Cabo Dos Bahías) of 29 breeding seasons.
- Three pox-positive chicks exhibited cutaneous lesions.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed proximity between the penguin Avipoxvirus and a strain from Black-browed Albatross, suggesting sustained circulation in the region.
- Outbreaks predominantly impacted chicks, leading to mortality, and were not linked to environmental factors or handling.
Conclusions:
- Avian pox poses a sporadic but significant threat to Magellanic Penguin chicks.
- The findings indicate a potential for long-term circulation of Avipoxviruses among seabirds in the southwest Atlantic.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the epidemiology and impact of avian pox in this ecosystem.
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