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Viruses and virus-like particles identified in ostrich gut contents

H J Els1, D Josling

  • 1Electron Microscopy Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa.

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association
|December 16, 1998
PubMed

Insights

This study identified several viruses, including enterovirus and paramyxovirus, in ostriches with enteritis in South Africa. The findings highlight the complex, multifactorial nature of enteric disease in these birds.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Virology
  • Avian Pathology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Enteric disease in ostriches presents a complex challenge.
  • Understanding the etiological agents is crucial for effective management.
  • Previous research on viral agents in ostrich enteritis is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify viral agents in ostriches with enteritis using direct negative-contrast electron microscopy.
  • To report the spectrum of viruses and virus-like particles in South African ostrich enteric samples.
  • To contribute to understanding the multifactorial causes of ostrich enteric disease.

Main Methods:

  • Direct negative-contrast electron microscopy was employed.
  • Samples included gut content from ostriches with enteritis and allantoic fluid.
  • Viral agents were identified based on morphology and comparison with known virus families.

Main Results:

  • Enterovirus (16 samples) and paramyxovirus (26 samples) were the most frequently identified viruses.
  • Circovirus, coronavirus, and toga- or bunyaviridae were each identified in one sample.
  • Non-viral fringed membranous particles and plant-derived nucleocapsid helices were also observed.

Conclusions:

  • This is the first report of a spectrum of viruses in ostrich enteric samples in South Africa.
  • The identified viruses, alongside non-viral structures, contribute to the complexity of ostrich enteric disease.
  • Findings support a multifactorial etiology for enteric disease in ostriches and other species.

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