Isolation of Brucella melitensis from alpine ibex

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Wildlife Disease Ecology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) and chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) populations in Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy, are vital components of the alpine ecosystem.
• Monitoring wildlife health is crucial for understanding disease dynamics and potential zoonotic risks in shared environments.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old male alpine ibex presented with clinical signs including thickened carpal joints and testicular enlargement.
• Pathological examination revealed testicular necrosis, fibrosis, and suppurative inflammation, alongside carpal joint abnormalities.

Findings:

• Microscopic analysis confirmed extensive testicular necrosis and fibrosis with inflammatory cell infiltration.
• Bacterial culture isolated a Gram-negative coccobacillus from the affected testicle, identified as Brucella melitensis biotype 2.
• This represents the first reported instance of brucellosis in alpine ibex.

Implications:

• This finding highlights the susceptibility of alpine ibex to Brucella infections and the potential for disease transmission within wildlife populations.
• The identification of Brucella melitensis biotype 2 in alpine ibex necessitates further investigation into its epidemiology and potential impact on ibex health and conservation.
• Understanding the presence of Brucella in wildlife is critical for assessing potential risks to livestock and human health in regions with shared habitats.