Dromedary Research Articles

Development and validation of the Axiom-MaruPri SNP chip for genetic analyses of domesticated old world camelids

Camels play a crucial socio-economic role in sustaining the livelihoods of millions in arid and semi-arid regions. They possess remarkable physiological attributes which enable them to thrive in extreme environments, and provide a source of meat, milk and transportation. With their unique traits, camels embody an irreplaceable source of untapped genomic knowledge. This study introduces Axiom-MaruPri, a medium-density SNP chip meticulously designed and validated for both Camelus bactrianus and Camelus dromedarius. Comprising of 182,122 SNP markers, derived from the re-sequenced data of nine Indian dromedary breeds and the double-humped Bactrian camel, this SNP chip offers 34,894 markers that display polymorphism in both species. It achieves an estimated inter-marker distance of 14 Kb, significantly enhancing the coverage of the camel genome. The medium-density chip has been successfully genotyped using 480 camel samples, achieving an impressive 99 % call rate, with 96 % of the 182,122 SNPs being highly reliable for genotyping. Phylogenetic analysis and Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components yield clear distinctions between Bactrian camels and dromedaries. Moreover, the discriminant functions substantially enhance the classification of dromedary camels into different breeds. The clustering of various camel breeds reveals an apparent correlation between geographical and genetic distances. The results affirm the efficacy of this SNP array, demonstrating high genotyping precision and clear differentiation between Bactrian and dromedary camels. With an enhanced genome coverage, accuracy and economic efficiency the Axiom_MaruPri SNP chip is poised to advance genomic breeding research in camels. It holds the potential to serve as an invaluable genetic resource for investigating population structure, genome-wide association studies and implementing genomic selection in domesticated camelid species.

Impact of parity on prepartum activities and behaviour in dromedary camels under farm conditions.

This study was conducted to assess the disparities in camel activities such as eating, drinking, sitting, standing, and sleeping between primiparous and multiparous females before parturition using computer vision. Also, any extraordinary behaviours during the final 2 h before parturition and the necessary manual interventions were meticulously recorded. Five primiparous (age: 4.5-7 years) and 7 multiparous (age: 8-14 years; parity: 2.1 ± 1.5) dromedary camels, were included in this study. Pre-partum females were housed double in a parturition pen provided with two Reolink RLC-810A cameras and the data were collected and recorded for each female. Two primiparous and 1 multiparous female required assistance in pulling the calf from both forelimbs to complete their parturition (27.3%). The drinking and sleeping activities were similar in primiparous and multiparous females during the recorded 32 h leading up to calving. Only eating activity exhibited a longer period in primiparous females compared to multiparous females specifically during the 12-h before calving. Sitting activity was longer, and standing activity was shorter in multiparous than in primiparous females during the 24, 12, and 6 h before calving. All parturient camels, whether primiparous or multiparous, exhibited signs of distress. Some extraordinary behaviours were observed, such as two multiparous females attempting to deter their primiparous counterparts from eating. Additionally, three females displayed a distinctive standing position on their knees while their hind limbs were in a complete standing position for 3-5 min before transitioning to sitting or standing positions. Furthermore, one primiparous female stood while the head and forelimbs of the calf partially protruded from her vulva. In conclusion, the application of computer vision and deep learning technology proves valuable for observing prepartum camels under farm conditions, potentially reducing economic losses stemming from delayed human intervention in dystocia cases.

Fiber Characteristics of the Dromedary Camel in the Arabian Peninsula

Dromedary camel fibers have long been utilized to make clothes, tents, ropes, mats, and carpets, however, only a minority of these fibers are currently used to produce textiles. Dromedary fiber classification based on quality traits is essential to investigate its textile potential. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to (1) develop a classification protocol for dromedary camel fibers based on crimp (i.e., shape), (2) investigate the characteristics of each fiber class using length, diameter, and medulla (i.e., the innermost hair layer) and (3) determine which fiber class is most suitable for the textile industry. Fiber samples were obtained from the mid-torso of 32 Arabian Peninsula camels of different types. Five crimp categories were identified (straight, C-shaped, wavy, ringed, and kinky). Across all crimp categories, the average length ranged from 20.20 – 43.93mm whereas the mean fiber diameter ranged from 29.74 – 72.11 μm. Percent medullation extended from 68 to 100% with noticeable variation between crimp categories. Overall, fiber traits significantly differed between the crimp categories. Kinky hair was particularly distinct from the other crimp categories. The kinky crimp category is the most suitable dromedary fiber for the textile industry because its fibers are long, fine, and has the lowest percentage of medullated fibers. Hence, we recommend that selective breeding programs and genetic studies focus on the production of dromedaries with kinky hair fibers.

Flow cytometric analysis of immune cell populations in the bronchial and mesenteric lymph nodes of the dromedary camel

Dromedary camel is an important livestock species with special economic value in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Given the limited data on detailed immune cell composition and cell marker expression in the dromedary camel lymph node tissue, the present study was undertaken to investigate the immune cell composition of bronchial and mesenteric lymph nodes from healthy dromedary camels using flow cytometry. In this study, we applied flow cytometry and multicolor immuno-fluorescence to phenotype the main populations of immune cells in the bronchial and mesenteric camel lymph nodes and compared them with separated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and granulocytes. We used antibodies to detect several cell surface molecules associated with camel T cells (CD4, WC1), B cells (MHCII, BAQ44A), monocytes/macrophages (CD172a, CD14, CD163), in addition to the pan-leukocyte marker CD45 and the cell adhesion molecules CD44 and CD18. Compared to blood mononuclear cells, camel lymph node cells contained a higher percentage of lymphoid cells with only a minor fraction of myeloid cells. In addition, the lower expression of CD44 and CD18 on lymph node lymphocytes compared to lymphocytes from peripheral blood indicates higher frequency of naïve lymphocytes in the lymph nodes. The frequency of CD4+ T cells, B cells and γδ T cells within camel lymph node lymphocytes compared to blood indicates a similar tissue distribution pattern of lymphocyte subsets in camel and bovine and supports previous reports on the similarity between the camel immune system and the immune system of other ruminants. Lymph node neutrophils were identified as CD45++ CD172a++, CD14+, MHCIIlow, BAQ44A+, CD44++, CD18++ cells. In conclusion, the present study is describing the employment of flow cytometric single-cell analysis and immunostaining for the analysis of the immune cell composition in the camel lymph node.

Binding Efficacy of Heavy Chain Antibody Against Porcine Alpha Amylase Derived from Indian Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

Binding Efficacy of Heavy Chain Antibody Against Porcine Alpha Amylase Derived from Indian Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

Development and characterization of camel gelatin films: Influence of camel bone age and glycerol or sorbitol on film properties

This study developed and evaluated camel bone gelatin films (CBGFs) with glycerol or sorbitol as plasticizers. Gelatin extracted from the bones of camels (Camelus dromedarius) at ages ranging from 2.5 to 7 years was used. A comprehensive analysis was conducted, evaluating a range of properties including thickness, moisture sorption capacity, water vapor permeability (WVP), infrared spectral characteristics, light absorption behavior, solubility, as well as mechanical and thermal attributes. This thorough examination allowed for a nuanced understanding of the diverse characteristics exhibited by the camel gelatin samples across different age groups. The results indicated that camel age, glycerol, and sorbitol had a significant impact on the properties of the film (P < 0.05). Tensile strength ranged from 0.32 MPa to 3.99 MPa, while the percentage of elongation at break varied from 89.42 % to 2.68 %. Film color (lightness, L) ranged from 21.39 to 41.33. Glycerol and sorbitol plasticized films were 100 % water soluble. Moisture sorption increased with temperature (25 °C, 35 °C, and 45 °C), with sorbitol films retaining less water. WVP was low in films from old camel bones and high in glycerol-plasticized CBGF-2.5Y and CBGF-4.5Y. Thermal analysis showed a melting temperature between 158.60 °C and 174.10 °C, depending on bone age and plasticizer. These films demonstrate promise for use in food packaging, coatings, and pharmaceutical applications.

Prevalence of tick infestation and molecular characterization of tick species of camels (Camelus dormedarius) from Al-Baha South Saudi Arabia

AbstractArthropods serve as efficient carriers for various life-threatening infections parasites, viruses and other harmful organisms throughout the world. In this study, Al-Aqiq Governorate of Al-Baha city served as the site where tick burden on camels (Camelus dromedarius) was assessed. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the diversity and prevalence of ticks. A total of 800 ticks, 756 adults and 44 nymphs were gathered and identified. Tick DNA was obtained from camels by utilizing commercially available kits. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done on recovered DNA utilizing 12S rDNA and 16S ribosomal DNA fragments to analyze and identify the ticks. Three species of hard ticks were found in the two genera Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus. Hyalomma dromedarii (81.81%) and H. rufipes (17.35%) were the two species with the highest prevalence found on the domestic animal hosts, whereas R. sanguineus (had the lowest prevalence of 0.82%). This is a preliminary report of DNA barcode of tick species of camels (Camelus dormedarius) from Al-Baha in KSA and the Arabian Peninsula, which is a significant step towards broader phylogenetic studies on tick samples from this region. The results of our study provide valuable insights for healthcare administrators and government authorities regarding the frequency of hard ticks on mammalian hosts in Al-Aqiq Governorate of Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. This can also assist in regulating tick diseases, in particular during the epidemic time.

Morphometric Study of the Algerian Dromedary Population Reguibi (Camelus dromedarius L. 1758)

Background: The morphometric study of the Algerian dromedary population, specifically the Reguibi breed (Camelus dromedarius), involves analyzing various physical measurements and characteristics of these camels. Morphometric studies aim to understand the phenotypic diversity within a population, which can provide insights into their adaptation, genetic variability and potential for selective breeding or conservation efforts. Methods: This study used 60 live dromedaries from the Tindouf slaughterhouse in Algeria’s extreme southwest. The animals, 30 males and 30 females, were adults over the age of five years old who grazed in Tindouf’s southwestern regions. After four measurements, the substernal void index and live weight were calculated. Result: The mean live weights for males were 507.9 kg ± 97.3 kg and 445.6 kg ± 63 kg for females. The average withers height was 1.94±0.10 m for males and 1.84±0.10 m for females. The findings were compared to previous studies on Sahraoui, Targui and Steppe Camels. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of the Reguibi population in this region.

Camel Milk Resistome in Kuwait: Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major global health and economic threats. There is growing concern about the emergence of AMR in food and the possibility of transmission of microorganisms possessing antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to the human gut microbiome. Shotgun sequencing and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing were used in this study to provide a detailed characterization of the antibiotic resistance profile of bacteria and their ARGs in dromedary camel milk. Eight pooled camel milk samples, representative of multiple camels distributed in the Kuwait desert, were collected from retail stores and analyzed. The genotypic analysis showed the presence of ARGs that mediate resistance to 18 classes of antibiotics in camel milk, with the highest resistance to fluoroquinolones (12.48%) and disinfecting agents and antiseptics (9%). Furthermore, the results pointed out the possible transmission of the ARGs to other bacteria through mobile genetic elements. The in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated that 80% of the isolates were resistant to different classes of antibiotics, with the highest resistance observed against three antibiotic classes: penicillin, tetracyclines, and carbapenems. Multidrug-resistant pathogens including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Enterobacter hormaechei were also revealed. These findings emphasize the human health risks related to the handling and consumption of raw camel milk and highlight the necessity of improving the hygienic practices of farms and retail stores to control the prevalence of ARGs and their transmission.

Effects of concentrate supplementation on lactating Dromedary Camels during mating season in Isiolo, Kenya

Camels are resilient and have a high potential to contribute to food security and economic development in arid areas. However, this potential is being limited by diminishing feed resources due to the effects of climate change. Further, there is an upcoming peri-urban camel production system where the animals are limited in their movement. Consequently, camels do not get enough browse forages in terms of biomass and quality to meet their nutritional requirement. This has resulted in decreased production and reproductive performance. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of concentrate supplementation on lactating camels on productive and reproductive performance during mating season. A diet containing 16.80% crude protein (CP) and a digestible energy of 8.44 MJ/Kg was formulated and supplemented in the evenings with a group of ten camels.  Another group of 10 camels acted as the control. Milking was done in the morning and production from each camel was recorded in liters. Percentage milk fat and protein analysis were done weekly using Gerber and Kjeldahl methods respectively. Serum biochemical levels were determined using spectrophotometry in the fourth week. Confirmation of pregnancy was done on the 5th month after mating by chemiluminescent progesterone assay. Camels were then divided into four groups. These were, supplemented pregnant(4) supplemented and not pregnant(6) un-supplemented pregnant(1), and un-supplemented and not pregnant(9).  Paired mean comparisons were done to ascertain differences within the four groups. Mean daily milk production was 25.26±0.42 and 22.79±0.41 liters for supplemented and un-supplemented groups respectively (p&lt;0.001). Paired mean differences were highest between pregnant supplemented and pregnant un-supplemented pair (p=0.165). Biochemical profiles, mean milk protein and fat percentages were significantly higher for supplemented than un-supplemented (p˂0.05).  All supplemented camels were mated within the first two weeks and had a higher conception rate (40%) than un-supplemented (10%). The study recommends concentrate supplementation during mating season to improve fertility and milk production, especially in pregnant camels.  

Morphological and radiographic studies on the Manus region in the Arabian one-humped camel (Camelus dromedaries).

The study aims to analyse the normal anatomical and radiographical features of the Manus of the southern Aswanian-adapted Arabian one-humped camel, providing crucial data for diagnosing and treating various ailments. Our study was applied to 10 cadaver forelimbs of adult male one-humped camels (4-5 years old) for an explanation of the gross anatomy of the bones of the Manus region from under the carpal bones by using traditional techniques, including the gross anatomical, radiographic and x-ray (at the dorsopalmar and lateral planes) of the preparation of Manus bones. Our results showed that the large fused (third and fourth) metacarpal bones, in which the fusion extended along the entire length of the bone except at the distal end, diverged to form separate articulations with cross-ponding digits. As described in all ruminant species, especially the camel, there were two digits, and each digit consisted of three phalanges and two proximal sesamoid bones. Our radiographic x-ray data revealed that the complete radiopaque septum that completely divided the medullary cavity into two separate parts was clear from the dorsopalmar view, while the lateral view showed the proximal sesamoid bones that were placed over each other and located palmar to the head of the large metacarpal bone. In conclusion, our study reveals the adaptations of the Arabian one-humped camel to Egyptian conditions, aiding in the early diagnosis of lameness and digit problems and enabling veterinarians and camel owners to better address these issues, thereby improving the overall health and well-being of these animals.

First use of Cisplatin as Chemotherapy for Treatment of Surgically-Excised Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dromedary Camels: A Preliminary Report

First use of Cisplatin as Chemotherapy for Treatment of Surgically-Excised Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dromedary Camels: A Preliminary Report

Molecular epidemiology of anaplasmosis in Indian dromedary camels.

The present study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology, risk factors, and haemato-biochemical changes in anaplasmosis in Indian dromedary camels. Blood samples collected from 103 camels were analysed using blood smear examination and semi-nested PCR based on the 16s rRNA gene to diagnose anaplasmosis. The prevalence of anaplasmosis was estimated to be 42.72% (95% CI: 33.59-52.37) by PCR assay and 16.5% (95% CI: 10.47-24.95%) by blood smear examination. Phylogenetic analysis of six partial sequences of 16s rRNA gene obtained in the present study indicated the involvement of multiple Anaplasma species, including A. marginale and A. platys, showing genetic similarity with cattle strains. A novel genotype related to A. camelii/A. cinensis/A. platys group was also identified. Hemato-biochemical examination revealed mild anaemia, increased serum urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, and decreased total protein and albumin levels in Anaplasma-positive animals. The infections were largely subclinical in nature, except in one camel that revealed fever, inappetence, and pale mucous membrane and responded well to treatment with oxytetracycline. To our knowledge, this is the first molecular study on camel anaplasmosis in India, indicating a high prevalence of infection and involvement of multiple Anaplasma species with potential risk for interspecies transmission.

Morphometric Study of Red Blood Cells in the Dromedary Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

This study was carried in the south east of Algeria, the main objective is to investigate the influence of three factors: age, sex and altitude on the morphometry of red blood cells. Blood samples were taken from 88 dromedary camels of the Chaambi breed, and smears were made ​​on slides immediately after the blood collection and stained according to the method of May-Gründwald Giemsa. For the morphometric study, we considered: the length, the width, the circumference and the surface of erythrocytes; measurements were made ​​while using a special OPTIKATM Vision Pro software. Statistical analyses were performed using the Student's T test. The results demonstrated that age and altitude; had a significant effect on the four morphometric parameters of erythrocytes; however, sex did not show any significant differences in the length, width, circumference and the surface of red blood cells. This investigation allowed us to propose new reference values for the circumference and the surface of red blood cells in the dromedary camel.

First record of nasopharyngeal myiasis caused by Cephalopina titillator (Clark, 1816) in camel (Camelus dromedarius Linnaeus, 1758) in Uzbekistan

Nasopharyngeal myiasis caused by the camel nasal bot, Cephalopina titillator, is very common in old world camelids and is usually found at necropsy or during meat inspection. Herein we report massive infection with C. titillator in a 9 years old female one-humped camel slaughtered on February 18, 2024 in the village of Kizil Uy, Nukus District, Republic of Karakalpakstan, northwestern Uzbekistan. A total of 69 larvae: 20 first stage larva (28.9%), 31 second stage larva (44.9%), and 18 third stage larva (26.0%) were detected in the nasal passages and pharynx of the camel. Morphological and morphometrical characters of all larval stages are illustrated and detailed in this article. To our knowledge this is the first record of camel nasal bot infestation in Uzbekistan. Future epidemiological studies are needed to shed light on the prevalence, seasonal fluctuation, clinical impact and economic burden of nasopharyngeal myiasis in dromedary camels of the country.

Hematological characteristics and endocrine profiles of cloned dromedary camels (Camelus dromedaries)

Hematological characteristics and endocrine profiles of cloned dromedary camels (<i>Camelus dromedaries</i>)

Development and preliminary validation of a MERS-CoV ELISA for serological testing of camels and alpacas

This study describes the development and preliminary validation of a new serological assay using MERS-CoV S1 protein in an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) format. This assay has the advantage of being able to test MERS-CoV serum samples in a PC2 laboratory without the need for a high-level biocontainment laboratory (PC3 or PC4), which requires highly trained and skilled staff and a high level of resources and equipment. Furthermore, this MERS-CoV S1 ELISA enables a larger number of samples to be tested quickly, with results obtained in approximately five hours. The MERS-CoV S1 ELISA demonstrated high analytical specificity, with no cross-reactivity observed in serum of animals infected with other viruses, including different coronaviruses. We tested 166 positive and 40 negative camel serum samples and have estimated the diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) to be 99.4% (95% CI: 96.7 – 100.0%) and diagnostic specificity (DSp) to be 100% (95% CI: 97.2%-100.0%) relative to the assigned serology results (ppNT and VNT) using a S/P ratio cut-off value of >0.58. The findings of this study showed that our MERS-CoV S1 ELISA was more sensitive than the commercial EUROIMMUN ELISA (Se 99.4% vs 84.9%) and comparable to the ppNT assay, and therefore could be used as a diagnostic aid in countries in the Middle East where MERS-CoV is endemic in dromedary camels. The assay reagents and protocol were easily adapted and transferred from an Australian laboratory to a laboratory in the University of Hong Kong. Thus, the results described here show that the MERS-CoV S1 ELISA represents a cheap, rapid, robust, and reliable assay to support surveillance of MERS-CoV in camels in endemic regions.

Histopathological investigation and risk factors of Coccidiosis in camels (Camelus dromedarius), Algeria

Coccidiosis in dromedaries is an intestinal protozoan infection caused by apicomplexan parasites belonging to the genus Eimeria. A prospective examination was conducted at two slaughterhouses in southern Algeria. The primary objective of this investigation was to ascertain the prevalence of intestinal parasites in camels, elucidate the associated microscopic lesions, and identify the risk factors contributing to this infestation. In pursuit of this, we procured four segments of the intestines from 31 dromedarieas that appeared healthy and displayed no symptoms. Subsequently, these samples were collected, preserved, subjected to routine processing, and subsequently stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&amp;E). Intestinal parasitic infection showed an incidence rate of 45.16% (14 out of 31). Specifically, two types of parasites were discerned in the intestinal specimens through microscopic examination, namely Eimeria (41.93%; 13 out of 31) (p-value = 0.046) and Taenia (3.22%; 1 out of 31) (p = 0.001). Eimeria cameli was observed in the ceacum (41.93%; 13 out of 31), jejunum (12.90%; 4 out of 31), and in one instance in the duodenum (3.22%; 1 out of 31). Furthermore, numerous development stages of coccidia were identified, including gamonts, schizonts and oocysts. Deep microscopic lesions attributed to Eimeria cameli were detected, such as enteritis, eosinophilic infiltration and inflammation. In addition, associated risk factors were identified. This study has furnished valuable insights into parasitic infestations affecting dromedaries, particularly Eimeria cameli. The molecular studies are needed to delineate the diverse variations within Eimeria strains. Effective parasite control strategies specific to dromedary camels need to be developed.

Phylogenetic evidence of a possible Trichuris globulosa species complex in Arabian camels from Kuwait.

During a 1-year study, Trichuris adults were obtained after necropsy of Arabian camels (Camelus dromedarius) from a slaughterhouse in Kuwait. Morphological and molecular identification was performed to confirm the identity of the Trichuris specimens obtained from C. dromedarius. Fifteen male Trichuris specimens were selected, and molecular identification was performed using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 12S ribosomal RNA, 16S ribosomal RNA genes and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region. Through phylogenetic analysis, 2 distinct groups were obtained using the mitochondrial genes, where group 1 showed a close relationship to Trichuris globulosa while group 2 showed a close relationship to Trichuris ovis, providing molecular evidence of a possible T. globulosa species complex. Additionally, the nuclear ITS2 region did not provide enough resolution to distinguish between the 2 groups of Trichuris specimens. Observation of morphological characters revealed variations in the shape of the male spicule sheath, where specimens present either a globular posteriorly truncated swelling or the absence of posteriorly truncated swelling. Moreover, the variations in male spicule sheath does not corroborate with the results of molecular data, suggesting the limited use of this character for identification of T. globulosa. In conclusion, molecular analysis suggests a possible species complex in T. globulosa, with the mitochondrial genetic markers successfully differentiating between the 2 groups. The limited use of the male spicule sheath as a diagnostic character for identification of T. globulosa is suggested.

Physiological and epidemiological study of some parasitic and viral enteric infections in dromedary camels in Al-Muthanna province

Physiological and epidemiological study of some parasitic and viral enteric infections in dromedary camels in Al-Muthanna province