Abstract
An external mass was observed on the ear of a free-ranging Baird’s Tapir Tapirus bairdii. The mass was surgically removed under general anesthesia and was histopathologically identified as sebaceous gland adenoma. Hematological and biochemical analyses were also performed. The animal showed a mild anemia and the other values were unremarkable. Only few cases of tumors have been reported in tapirs and this is the first report of a tumor in a free ranging Baird´s Tapir. The presence of any disease in free-ranging wildlife should call our attention in order to develop a better understanding of disease ecology, especially in threatened species.
Highlights
The Bairds Tapir Tapirus bairdii is classified as an Endangered species on the IUCN Red List (García et al 2016) due to threats like habitat fragmentation, hunting, and increasing roadkills (Brenes-Mora 2017)
Neoplasia in wildlife was not considered to be a conservation concern, with the identification of the Tasmanian Devil facial tumor disease, the sea turtle fibropapillomatosis and the sea lion genital carcinoma, it has become apparent that highly prevalent tumors can have considerable effects on a species and that anthropogenic activities can contribute to the development of such tumors (McAloose & Newton 2009)
The histopathological examination revealed a multinodular neoplasia with the presence of a moderate amount of reserve cells at the periphery of the tumor
Summary
The Bairds Tapir Tapirus bairdii is classified as an Endangered species on the IUCN Red List (García et al 2016) due to threats like habitat fragmentation, hunting, and increasing roadkills (Brenes-Mora 2017). It ranges from southern Mexico to northwestern Colombia, with the population comprising less than 6000 individuals within the entire distribution range (García et al 2016; Schank et al 2017). Tapirs’ habitats in the wild include a great diversity of ecosystems from sea level to altitudes of 3600m (González-Maya et al 2012; Schank et al 2017). The health status of free-ranging tapirs is a very important aspect to take into account when developing conservation strategies for this endangered species in the wild (Mangini et al 2012). The presence of any disease in free-ranging species should call our attention in order to develop a better understanding of disease ecology, especially in threatened species
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
