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Retardation of wool growth in Merino sheep caused by bacteria
The Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
|December 1, 1983
Abstract:
A condition evidenced by retarded growth of wool with alteration of the yolk into a yellow, sticky, wax-like substance was investigated. The condition was associated with hyperaemia and cellular infiltration into the dermis in the affected areas. Three bacterial species, viz. Enterobacter aerogenes, E. agglomerans and Hafnia alvei, which could grow on the water-extractable component of wool-yolk, were incriminated as the cause of the condition.
Insights
A novel bacterial condition affecting wool growth was identified. Enterobacter aerogenes, E. agglomerans, and Hafnia alvei were found to cause yellow, waxy wool due to their growth on wool-yolk.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Animal Science
Background:
- A specific wool condition characterized by stunted growth and a yellow, waxy yolk alteration was observed.
- This condition correlated with dermal inflammation, including hyperemia and cellular infiltration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the etiology of the observed wool growth and yolk alteration condition.
- To identify the microorganisms responsible for the pathological changes in wool and skin.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological examination of affected dermal tissues.
- Microbiological culture and identification of bacteria from wool-yolk samples.
- In vitro growth studies of isolated bacteria on wool-yolk components.
Main Results:
- Histopathology revealed dermal hyperemia and significant cellular infiltration in affected areas.
- Three bacterial species, Enterobacter aerogenes, E. agglomerans, and Hafnia alvei, were consistently isolated.
- These bacteria demonstrated the ability to proliferate on the water-extractable fraction of wool-yolk.
Conclusions:
- Enterobacter aerogenes, E. agglomerans, and Hafnia alvei are implicated as the causative agents of the investigated wool condition.
- The bacteria's ability to utilize wool-yolk components contributes to the observed pathology.
- This finding provides insight into bacterial-induced wool quality defects.