A risk-management approach to a mycotic disease potential in captive beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)

Abstract

In response to the isolation of Aspergillus fumigatus and other potentially pathogenic fungi in expired air from four of five captive beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), a systematic assessment of the magnitude and nature of the risks associated with this finding was conducted. Ten genera of ubiquitous fungi, most of which were potential pathogens, were isolated from the whales over a 16-month period. During this same period, the whales did not exhibit any behavioral, physical, hematological, or biochemical indications of disease. All the genera of fungi isolated from the whales were also found in air and water samples taken throughout the facility. Opportunities for contamination of samples of expired air were identified. A decision tree, which incorporated subjective probability estimates, was created. The final risk-management plan involved: 1) alterations to the management of the pool to reduce environmental contamination and opportunities for exposure to fungi, 2) more rigorous quality control for sample collection, and 3) an increased frequency of blowhole cultures. The animals at the facility, including the newborn calf, remained healthy during the 3 years after the risk-management program. Zoo Biol 18:5–16, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.