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Viruses and virus-like particles identified in ostrich gut contents
1Electron Microscopy Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
Abstract:
Samples of either gut content from ostriches showing symptoms of enteritis, or allantoic fluid of eggs inoculated with ostrich isolates, were examined for the presence of viral agents by direct negative-contrast electron microscopy. Only a few virus types could be identified with certainty, namely a circovirus (1 sample), a coronavirus (1 sample), a member of either the toga- or bunyaviridae (1 sample), enterovirus (16 samples) and paramyxovirus (26 samples). A large number of samples contained structures resembling myxovirus particles that were interpreted as fringed membranous particles of non-viral origin. An unusual observation of probable single-strand nucleocapsid helices, possibly originating from digested plant material and which were identified in a number of small intestine samples, is reported. This is the 1st report of a spectrum of viruses and virus-like particles occurring in enteric samples from ostriches in South Africa. The low incidence and variety of viruses reported here contribute to the multifactorial origin and complexity of enteric disease in ostriches as well as in other birds and mammalian species.
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.