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A Video Surveillance System to Monitor Breeding Colonies of Common Terns Sterna Hirundo
Published on: July 22, 2018
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Novel adenovirus associated with common tern (Sterna hirundo) chicks
Simona Kraberger1, Stephen A Oswald2, Jennifer M Arnold3
1The Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Center for Evolution and Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA.
Archives of Virology
|January 23, 2022
Summary
A novel adenovirus was discovered in common terns, marking the first association of adenoviruses with this avian species. This finding contributes to understanding avian adenovirus diversity and potential health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Avian Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Ornithology
Background:
- Adenoviruses are known pathogens in various bird species, causing disease and mortality.
- Research into viruses affecting common terns (Sterna hirundo) is ongoing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel viruses associated with common tern populations.
- To investigate the genetic relationship of newly discovered avian adenoviruses.
Main Methods:
- Genome sequencing of the novel adenovirus.
- Phylogenetic analysis using DNA polymerase protein sequences.
- Identification from fecal samples of common tern chicks.
Main Results:
- A novel adenovirus was identified in fecal samples from common terns on Gull Island, Lake Ontario.
- The complete genome sequence is 31,094 bp with 28 putative genes.
- The virus is most closely related to duck adenovirus 1, sharing 58% amino acid identity in DNA polymerase.
- Phylogenetic analysis places the virus in a distinct sub-branch within the atadenovirus clade.
Conclusions:
- This is the first reported adenovirus associated with terns.
- The findings suggest the virus likely represents a new species within the atadenovirus genus.
- Further research is needed to determine the pathogenicity and prevalence of this novel avian adenovirus.
