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Omphalitis and peritonitis in a young West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus)
M T Walsh1, G D Bossart, W G Young
1Veterinary Reference Laboratory, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33309.
Abstract:
Mortality data for the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) indicates that from 1979 to 1984 16% of the recorded deaths involved young juveniles. Necropsy of a young manatee from the west coast of Florida revealed an active infection of the umbilical area (omphalitis) extending down the umbilical artery and veins. A generalized peritonitis was present. Bacterial cultures revealed Streptococcus faecium, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Pseudomonas putrefaciens and Escherichia coli.
Insights
Umbilical infections (omphalitis) are a significant cause of mortality in young West Indian manatees. This study identified key bacteria responsible for these fatal infections in juvenile marine mammals.
Area of Science:
- Marine Mammal Health
- Veterinary Pathology
- Wildlife Disease Ecology
Background:
- West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) populations face various mortality threats.
- Juvenile mortality is a critical factor in population dynamics.
- Previous data indicated a notable percentage of deaths in young manatees.
Observation:
- A necropsy of a juvenile West Indian manatee from Florida revealed omphalitis (umbilical infection).
- The infection extended through the umbilical vessels, leading to generalized peritonitis.
- Bacterial cultures identified Streptococcus faecium, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Pseudomonas putrefaciens, and Escherichia coli.
Findings:
- Omphalitis was identified as a cause of death in a young West Indian manatee.
- The identified bacterial species are associated with severe infections in marine mammals.
- This highlights a specific pathological process contributing to juvenile manatee mortality.
Implications:
- Understanding omphalitis is crucial for manatee conservation efforts.
- Identifying causative agents can inform veterinary treatment and disease prevention strategies.
- This research contributes to the broader knowledge of infectious diseases affecting vulnerable marine megafauna.