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Title
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Molecular identification of vector-borne haemoparasites in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Iran
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Type
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Presentation
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Keywords
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avian malaria, arthropod-borne, Haemoproteus, haemosporidia, PCR
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Abstract
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In Iran, domestic pigeons are widely bred for meat, egg, sporting competitions or pets however, only scant information is available about their vector-borne haemoparasites. This study aimed to provide an overview on the molecular prevalence of different haemoparasitic infections in naturally infected privately-owned domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica). From April to June 2021, pigeons of both sexes and different ages (juvenile and adult) presenting weight loss and diarrhea were purchased from different location in Tabriz city, northwestern Iran. After humanized killing, jugular vein blood samples were collected in sterile microtubes and stored at -20 °C until further examinations. Genomic DNA from the blood of 99 pigeons were examined for the presence of pathogens DNA i.e. Haemoproteus spp., Plasmodium spp., Leucocytozoon spp., Trypanosoma spp. and filarioid nematodes using group- or genus-specific primers by conventional PCR. Eighteen pigeons (18.2%) scored positive for Haemoproteus/Plasmodium. Nucleotide sequencing confirmed the causative agent of pseudomalaria Haemoproteus columbae. DNA of other tested pathogens were not detected. Data reported herein represent the first molecular-based study on pigeons haemoparasites in northwestern Iran. Since the competent vector of H. columbae the louse fly Pseudolynchia canariensis is widespread in different regions of the country effective ectoparasites control is necessary. Moreover, as H. columbae infection can be lethal especially in young individuals test-and-treat strategy is recommended.
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Researchers
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Domenico Otranto (Not In First Six Researchers), Antonio Camarda (Not In First Six Researchers), Sakineh azami (Not In First Six Researchers), (Fifth Researcher), (Fourth Researcher), (Third Researcher), Monireh Khordadmehr (Second Researcher), ALIREZA SAZMAND (First Researcher)
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