Large-scale identification of rodenticide resistance in Rattus norvegicus and Mus musculus in the Netherlands based
Inge M Krijger1, Max Strating1, Marga van Gent-Pelzer2
1Dutch Pest and Wildlife Expertise Centre (KAD), Wageningen, the Netherlands.
Background:
Resistance to rodenticides has been reported globally and poses a considerable problem for efficacy in pest control. The most-documented resistance to rodenticides in commensal rodents is associated with mutations in the Vkorc1 gene, in particular in codon 139. Resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides has been reported in the Netherlands since 1989. A study from 2013 showed that 25% of 169 Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) had a mutation at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene. To gain insight in the current status of rodenticide resistance amongst R. norvegicus and house mice Mus musculus in the Netherlands, we tested these rodents for mutations in codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene. In addition, we collected data from pest controllers on their use of rodenticides and experience with rodenticide resistance.
Results:
A total of 1801 rodent samples were collected throughout the country consisting of 1404 R. norvegicus and 397 M. musculus. In total, 15% of R. norvegicus [95% confidence interval (CI): 13-17%] and 38% of M. musculus (95% CI: 33-43%) carried a genetic mutation at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates genetic mutations at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene in M. musculus in the Netherlands. Resistance to anticoagulant rodenticides is present in R. norvegicus and M. musculus in multiple regions in the Netherlands. The results of this comprehensive study provide a baseline and facilitate trend analyses of Vkorc1 codon 139 mutations and evaluation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies as these are enrolled in the Netherlands. © 2022 The Dutch Pest and Wildlife. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Insights
Rodenticide resistance is a growing problem, with mutations in the Vkorc1 gene found in Norway rats and house mice in the Netherlands. This study highlights the prevalence of these genetic mutations, impacting pest control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Molecular Biology
- Pest Management
Background:
- Rodenticide resistance is a global issue impacting pest control effectiveness.
- Mutations in the Vkorc1 gene, particularly at codon 139, are the primary cause of resistance in rodents.
- Anticoagulant rodenticide resistance has been documented in the Netherlands since 1989.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current prevalence of Vkorc1 gene mutations associated with rodenticide resistance in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) and house mice (Mus musculus) in the Netherlands.
- To gather data from pest control professionals regarding rodenticide usage and observed resistance.
- To establish a baseline for monitoring future trends in rodenticide resistance.
Main Methods:
- Genetic analysis of rodent samples (1801 total: 1404 R. norvegicus, 397 M. musculus) for mutations at codon 139 of the Vkorc1 gene.
- Geographical sampling across the Netherlands to capture regional variations.
- Collection of data from pest controllers on rodenticide use and resistance experiences.
Main Results:
- Genetic mutations at Vkorc1 codon 139 were identified in 15% of R. norvegicus and 38% of M. musculus samples.
- The study confirmed the presence of these resistance mutations in both species across multiple regions in the Netherlands.
- A significant proportion of house mice (M. musculus) exhibited the specific genetic mutation linked to resistance.
Conclusions:
- Genetic mutations in the Vkorc1 gene at codon 139 are prevalent in both Norway rats and house mice in the Netherlands.
- This resistance poses a significant challenge for effective anticoagulant rodenticide use.
- The findings provide crucial baseline data for tracking resistance trends and evaluating integrated pest management strategies in the Netherlands.
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