Oryctolagus Research Articles

Physicochemical Characterization of Yogurt Fortified with Microencapsulated Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and Its Effects on Metabolic Syndrome Induced in Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Chronic noncommunicable diseases are a global health problem causing increased rates of mortality and sick leaves, which can be reduced by controlling dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia. Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the antidiabetic, lipid-lowering, antiobesogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive properties of cinnamon; therefore, its use in yogurt can help reverse the effects of these diseases. Our study aims to evaluate the effect of a microencapsulated aqueous extract of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) (MCE Cz) incorporated in a yogurt drink on metabolic syndrome (MS) in a rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Physicochemical, microbiological, and proximal chemical characterization; total phenol, flavonoid, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil activity quantification; intestinal bioaccessibility; sensory analysis; MS induction through diet; and treatment with 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of flavonoids contained in the MCE Cz were performed to help evaluate morphological, biochemical, and lipid peroxidation measurements in the liver and heart. The results show that the addition of MCE Cz in the yogurt modified the yogurt texture, increased its adhesiveness and firmness, and imparted a characteristic cinnamon color and biological value by providing intestinally bioaccessible antioxidants with antioxidant potential by reducing lipoperoxidation in the liver and heart after treatment. MCE Cz reduced the weight of the animals by up to 38.5% and the abdominal circumference by 29%. Biochemically, it decreased glucose levels by 24.38%, total cholesterol levels by 69.2%, triglyceride levels by 72.69%, and low-density lipoprotein levels by 89.25%; it increased high-density lipoprotein levels by 67.08%. Therefore, adding MCE Cz in doses of 5 and 10 mg of flavonoids in drinkable yogurt can be an alternative to preparing functional foods with physicochemical attributes and biological properties that can be consumed at all stages of life without undesirable effects. Moreover, it can act as a potential adjuvant in the treatment of comorbidities related to MS.

Mammalian lures monitored with time-lapse cameras increase detection of pythons and other snakes

Background Enhancing detection of cryptic snakes is critical for the development of conservation and management strategies; yet, finding methods that provide adequate detection remains challenging. Issues with detecting snakes can be particularly problematic for some species, like the invasive Burmese python (Python bivittatus) in the Florida Everglades. Methods Using multiple survey methods, we predicted that our ability to detect pythons, larger snakes and all other snakes would be enhanced with the use of live mammalian lures (domesticated rabbits; Oryctolagus cuniculus). Specifically, we used visual surveys, python detection dogs, and time-lapse game cameras to determine if domesticated rabbits were an effective lure. Results Time-lapse game cameras detected almost 40 times more snakes (n = 375, treatment = 245, control = 130) than visual surveys (n = 10). We recorded 21 independent detections of pythons at treatment pens (with lures) and one detection at a control pen (without lures). In addition, we found larger snakes, and all other snakes were 165% and 74% more likely to be detected at treatment pens compared to control pens, respectively. Time-lapse cameras detected almost 40 times more snakes than visual surveys; we did not detect any pythons with python detection dogs. Conclusions Our study presents compelling evidence that the detection of snakes is improved by coupling live mammalian lures with time-lapse game cameras. Although the identification of smaller snake species was limited, this was due to pixel resolution, which could be improved by changing the camera focal length. For larger snakes with individually distinctive patterns, this method could potentially be used to identify unique individuals and thus allow researchers to estimate population dynamics.

First report on seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in zoo animals in Algeria

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the world's most widespread polyxenic protozoan parasites that affect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. This survey aims to study, for the first time in Algeria, the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in zoo animals. The study included eight animal species of which 54 serum samples were collected from 30 Australian goats (Capra hircus), four bulls (Bos taurus), one dromedary (Camelus dromedarius), three cuffed sheep (Ammotragus lervia), seven donkeys (Equus asinus), one pony (Equus ferus), four bearded horses (Equus ferus caballus) and four rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The presence of antibodies to T. gondii was determined using the ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect Multispecies ELISA kit (IDVet, Grabels, France). A total of 8/54 (14.8%) samples were seropositive, including 5/28 (17.9%) males and 3/26 (11.5%) females. The seroprevalence was 6.7%, 50%, 25% and 75% in Capra hircus, Bos Taurus, Equus ferus caballus, and Oryctolagus cuniculus, respectively. No cases were observed in Camelus dromedarius, Ammotragus lervia, Equus asinus, and Equus ferus. This study indicates, for the first time in Algeria, the seroprevalence of T. gondii in zoo animals.

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2, 2010-2023: a review of global detections and affected species.

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2/genotype GI.2 (RHDV2/GI.2; Caliciviridae, Lagovirus) causes a highly contagious disease with hepatic necrosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation in several Leporidae species. RHDV2 was first detected in European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in France in 2010 and has since spread widely. We gather here data on viral detections reported in various countries and affected species, and discuss pathology, genetic differences, and novel diagnostic aspects. RHDV2 has been detected almost globally, with cases reported in Europe, Africa, Oceania, Asia, and North America as of 2023. Since 2020, large scale outbreaks have occurred in the United States and Mexico and, at the same time, cases have been reported for the first time in previously unaffected countries, such as China, Japan, Singapore, and South Africa, among others. Detections have been notified in domestic and wild European rabbits, hares and jackrabbits (Lepus spp.), several species of cottontail and brush rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.), pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis), and red rock rabbits (Pronolagus spp.). RHDV2 has also been detected in a few non-lagomorph species. Detection of RHDV2 causing RHD in Sylvilagus spp. and Leporidae species other than those in the genera Oryctolagus and Lepus is very novel. The global spread of this fast-evolving RNA virus into previously unexploited geographic areas increases the likelihood of host range expansion as new species are exposed; animals may also be infected by nonpathogenic caliciviruses that are disseminated by almost all species, and with which genetic recombination may occur.

ANALIZA ZMIENNOSCI CECH REPRODUKCYJNYCH I EFEKTYWNO ´ SCI ROZRODU KRÓLIKÓW ´ (ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS L. 1758) RAS POPIELNIANSKI BIAŁY I TERMONDZKI BIAŁY

In the study, the variability of reproductive traits (the number of born and weaned young) and the efficiency of breeding work were assessed and estimated in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus L. 1758) of the Popielno White and Termond White breeds. Phenotypic trends of reproductive traits were estimated over a period of ten years in farms included in the analysis. The research material included data on the performance of 1836 female rabbits of the Termond White breed and 1237 female rabbits of the Popielno White breed, maintained on reproductive farms over a period of ten years. Analysis of variance for reproductive traits showed that sources of variability (farm, calendar year, and breed) had a statistically significant impact on the number of born and weaned rabbits. The average litter size obtained from female Termond White rabbits ranged from 2.89 to 3.54 within one year. For female Popielno White rabbits, this average was 3.44. The average number of born and weaned kits per litter during the analyzed period was 8.99 and 8.29, respectively. The reproductive results obtained regarding the number of born and weaned rabbits can be considered very good. The phenotypic trend line for the number of born and raised rabbits of the white Popielno breed showed an increasing tendency, while in the case of rabbits of the white Termond breed, it exhibited a decreasing trend. Clear fluctuations in the number of born and raised rabbit kits in the Termond white breed throughout the research period indicate the need to improve the reproductive traits of this breed through intensified selection. In the light of our own research, it can be stated that rabbit breeding in both farms is conducted properly, and the obtained results are satisfactory.

Attraction of microarthropods to dung of invasive mammals in meadows of northwestern Patagonia

AbstractThe attractive effect of dung on coprophagous beetle communities and their role in dung degradation are well‐known phenomena. However, little research has been conducted on the recruitment capacity of this substrate for other arthropods, especially those inhabiting the soil. With the aim of beginning to recognize general patterns in these relationships, the influence of the structure and origin of dung from invasive exotic mammals on the recruitment of microarthropods was investigated in two meadows within Nahuel Huapi National Park in southwestern Argentina. Abundance, richness and diversity of microarthropod communities collected on invasive mammal dung were studied. A total of 2478 microarthropods were collected and 52 species were identified. Recruitment of microarthropods on dung of two invasive coprophagic herbivores, the rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus and the hare, Lepus europaeus, were compared with two invasive non‐coprophagic mammals, one herbivorous, the red deer, Cervus elaphus and one omnivorous, the wild boar, Sus scrofa. Pellets of S. scrofa showed the highest microarthropod abundance and richness while diversity was greatest on pellets of C. elaphus. Pygmephorid and oribatid mites and springtails were the most abundant. Liposcelis psocopterans and oribatid mites were more abundant on S. scrofa dung. Low similarity was observed when comparing dung of invasive mammals from different sites revealing spatial variability regarding species composition. Based on its more diverse diet, we conclude that S. scrofa dung exerts a strong influence on microarthropod communities by recruiting a greater number of individuals and species than the dung of the remaining invasive mammals.

The effect of green mussel (Perna viridis) shells’ hydroxyapatite application on alkaline phosphatase levels in rabbit femur bone defect

Background Non-union fractures can be prevented with bone grafts, such as hydroxyapatite made from green mussel shells. Green mussel shells contain a high percentage of HA, making them a promising alternative for bone healing. This research aims to reveal the effectiveness of green mussel shell HA as a bone substitute material and to provide knowledge for further research. Methods This research was conducted for four months using a true experimental research method with a post-test-only control group design. This study used 36 New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) which were divided into 9 groups: positive control, negative control, and intervention at weeks 2, 4 and 6 after the intervention. All groups were subjected to three general procedures: pre-surgery, surgery, and post-surgery. This study utilized histological evaluation and biochemical assessment, specifically measuring serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, to investigate the effects of hydroxyapatite (HA) from green mussel shells on bone healing in rabbits. Results The findings demonstrated that green mussel shell HA hashad efficacy in accelerating bone healing, better than HA bovine HA i.e. green mussel shell hydroxyapatite showed superior efficacy compared to bovine hydroxyapatite in accelerating and maximizing fracture healing, as compared to the 6-week negative control group and demonstrated a significant difference (p < 0.05). Conclusions Green mussel hydroxyapatite is proven to be able to fasten and maximize the bone healing process as fast as bovine HA, and even has higher efficacy than bovine HA.

Success rate and complication prevalence of peripheral catheterization of the cephalic, lateral saphenous and marginal ear veins in pet rabbits

BackgroundIntravenous catheter placement is a routine procedure in exotic pet medicine, yet the selection of the optimal venous site for catheterization in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) remains controversial. Recommendations differ between countries and authors, and lack evidence-based data. This prospective study aimed to document and compare the prevalence and types of complications secondary to peripheral venous catheterization in domestic rabbits as related to the vein catheterized. MethodsCatheterization events (n=151) were randomly attributed to three groups, named according to the venous site selected: cephalic (n=39), lateral saphenous (n=58) and marginal ear vein (n=54). Rabbits that needed a catheter for fluid therapy, surgery, or imaging, were included in the study. Catheters were placed by three veterinarians following a standardized method. Data regarding the patient, the type of catheter, and the treatment were recorded. Complications were evaluated every day after the catheter placement, at removal and after 15 days. ResultsMinor complications that were observed included catheters which were bent at the elbow or removed by the rabbit, and twisted or chewed tubing. Ear necrosis and signs of phlebitis were considered major complications. Catheter placement failure was significantly higher in the “cephalic” group (odds ratio = 4, 95% Confidence Interval = [16.67,1.04], p = 0.048), without differences between the operators. For the marginal ear vein, there was also a significant association between the failure rate and the length of the rabbit's ear (Wilcoxon effect size = 0.42, 95% CI = [0.14,0.64], p = 0.003). No major complication was observed in any groups. Minor complications occurred without significant differences between the groups. Conclusionsand clinical relevance: The results suggest that intravenous catheters in rabbits do not carry significant complications irrespective of the chosen site, but cephalic vein placement carries the highest risk of failure.

Effect of Myxoma Virus Species Jump on Iberian Hare Populations.

The myxoma virus species jump from European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) to Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis) has raised concerns. We assess the decline suffered by Iberian hare populations on the Iberian Peninsula and discuss the association between the effect of myxomatosis and the average abundance index, which we estimated by using hunting bags.

Temporal activity and detection rates of chilla (Lycalopex griseus) in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina.

Designing mitigation strategies for invasive species requires a clear understanding of their ecology and behaviour. Chilla (or grey fox; Lycalopex griseus) were introduced to Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego (Tierra del Fuego Island) in 1951 to control European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) populations. Although this management strategy was unsuccessful, the chilla spread across the island and are now considered invasive. Despite this, there is a lack of research concerning their ecology and behavioural patterns, particularly on the Argentinian side of the island. We assessed the detection rates and temporal activity patterns of chillas using camera traps in the Argentinian region of Tierra del Fuego Island. Chilla had average detection rates of 61.7 (SD ± 33.3, range = 13.5-105.7) per 100 trap nights. Although analysis by clock time suggested cathemeral activity patterns, when analysed by sun time the chillas exhibited distinct nocturnal activity patterns. These findings offer the first information on the detection rates of chilla on the Argentinian side of Tierra del Fuego Island and reveal new insights into their temporal activity patterns, providing an important basis for future research that may aid the development of more effective management and conservation strategies.

WILDbase: towards a common database to improve wildlife disease surveillance in Europe.

BackgroundTo be better prepared for emerging wildlife-borne zoonoses, we need to strengthen wildlife disease surveillance.AimThe aim of this study was to create a topical overview of zoonotic pathogens in wildlife species to identify knowledge gaps and opportunities for improvement of wildlife disease surveillance.MethodsWe created a database, which is based on a systematic literature review in Embase focused on zoonotic pathogens in 10 common urban wildlife mammals in Europe, namely brown rats, house mice, wood mice, common voles, red squirrels, European rabbits, European hedgehogs, European moles, stone martens and red foxes. In total, we retrieved 6,305 unique articles of which 882 were included.ResultsIn total, 186 zoonotic pathogen species were described, including 90 bacteria, 42 helminths, 19 protozoa, 22 viruses and 15 fungi. Most of these pathogens were only studied in one single animal species. Even considering that some pathogens are relatively species-specific, many European countries have no (accessible) data on zoonotic pathogens in these relevant animal species. We used the Netherlands as an example to show how this database can be used by other countries to identify wildlife disease surveillance gaps on a national level. Only 4% of all potential host-pathogen combinations have been studied in the Netherlands.ConclusionsThis database comprises a comprehensive overview that can guide future research on wildlife-borne zoonotic diseases both on a European and national scale. Sharing and expanding this database provides a solid starting point for future European-wide collaborations to improve wildlife disease surveillance.

Post-mortem intervals estimation by determination of insect diversity

ABSTRACT Dipteran flies have been employed to measure the post-mortem period examination with the help of decomposition of the carcasses. The current study attempted to update the baseline data of the insects to determine the post-mortem interval. Five decomposition stages were observed but the complete decomposition of (Oryctolagus cuniculus) rabbits in winter took place in 21 days and in spring in 12 to 15 days. Decomposition period in both trials varied due to temperature fluctuations. Odours were released at different stages of decay and blow flies were the first insect to come on carcasses. The species that identified were the blowfly (Calliphoridae) (34.4% | 49.12%), blue fly (Calliphora) (17.24% | 41.22%), flesh fly Sarcophagidae (20.68% | 5.26%), and house fly (Muscidae) (27.58% | 4.38%) in the first trial and second trial respectively. The timing of the various arthropod species’ arrivals and their correlation with various decompositional phases throughout both trials suggested that they could be useful for determining the PMI (post-mortem interval) in forensic investigations. This study showed that insect fauna on the corpse is a tool for estimating post-mortem interval and plays an important role in forensic entomology to analyse the suspicious suspect.

Is the Iberian lynx a hunters’ ally? a case study from a reintroduced population in Portugal

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is one of the most endangered felids in the world, and a high proportion of its populations occur in hunting grounds managed for red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), both game species of high socio-economic value and the latter a key prey species for the lynx. In this case study from south-eastern Portugal, we evaluated the game management practices, the abundance of partridges and rabbits (expressed as Kilometric Abundance Index), and the occurrence of mesocarnivores in four hunting grounds, two with and two without breeding lynx. In all grounds game management was conducted but in those where lynx occurred, full-time gamekeepers were employed and hunting was the major source of income. The results showed that grounds with breeding lynx had higher KAI values for partridges and rabbits, together with reduced mesocarnivores occurrence (particularly red fox Vulpes vulpes and stone marten Martes foina), compared to those without breeding lynx. Our results confirm that lynx occurrence fits within the management traits of those hunting grounds in Iberia aiming to increase partridges and rabbits for sustainable hunting, as they act as ‘natural’ gamekeepers. This could be considered as a ‘win-win’ situation; successful for lynx’s establishment and small game conservation.

Serum vitamin D concentrations in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are more affected by UVB irradiation of food than irradiation of animals

Rabbits kept under ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiation respond with increasing serum vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, but it is unknown whether irradiation of the animals or their feed contributes more. Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups for a four-week period: the control group (C) received no UVB-exposure and non-irradiated hay (ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) concentration 2.22 µg/100 g dry matter). The direct exposure group (D) was provided with 12 h of UVB-irradiation daily and fed the same hay as group C in shaded areas to prevent UVB-irradiation thereof. The indirect exposure group (I) did not receive direct UVB-irradiation but was fed hay of the same batch that was exposed to 12 h of UVB-irradiation (vitamin D2 6.06 µg/100 g dry matter). Serum 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, ionised calcium, total calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium concentrations were measured weekly. There was no systematic effect on serum mineral concentrations. The serum 25(OH)D2 concentrations were significantly higher in group I compared to groups C and D from the second week onwards. 25(OH)D3 concentrations increased only in group D, with significant differences to both other groups from the third week onwards, yet at lower magnitudes than the noted increase of 25(OH)D2 in group I. Total 25(OH)D concentrations were highest in group I, intermediate in group D and lowest in group C. Serum total 25(OH)D concentration was more affected by UVB-irradiation of rabbits’ feed than by direct irradiation of the animals themselves. If rabbit serum total 25(OH)D concentrations should be managed, diet manipulation rather than animal UVB-exposure appears to be more effective.

Serological effects of cypermethrin on the kidneys of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Serological effects of cypermethrin on the kidneys of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Occurrence of Coxiella burnetii in wild lagomorphs and their ticks in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems.

Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is a zoonotic multi-host vector-borne pathogen of major public health importance. Although the European Food Safety Authority has recently made the monitoring of this bacterium in wildlife a priority, the role of wild lagomorphs in the transmission and maintenance of C. burnetii is poorly understood. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii circulation in European wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis) and to assess the presence of this pathogen in ticks that feed on them in Mediterranean ecosystems in Spain, the country with the highest number of reported cases of Q fever in Europe. A total of 574 spleen samples were collected from 453 wild rabbits and 121 Iberian hares, and 513 ticks (processed in 120 pools) between the 2017/2018 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons. C. burnetii DNA was detected in 103 (17.9%; 95% CI: 14.8-21.1) of the 574 wild lagomorphs tested. By species, prevalence was 16.3% (74/453; 95% CI: 12.9-19.7) in the European wild rabbit and 24.0% (29/121; 95% CI: 16.4-31.6) in the Iberian hare. At least one positive lagomorph was found on 47.9% of the 96 hunting estates sampled and in every hunting season since 2018/2019. Two risk factors associated with C. burnetii infection were as follows: outbreak of myxomatosis on the hunting estate in the month prior to sampling and high tick abundance observed by gamekeepers on the hunting estate. C. burnetii DNA was also found in 33 of the 120 (27.5%; 95% CI: 19.5-35.5) tick pools tested. The pathogen was detected in 66.7% (4/6), 29.2% (26/89) and 21.4% (3/14) of Haemaphysalis hispanica, Rhipicephalus pusillus and Hyalomma lusitanicum pools respectively. This study provides new epidemiological data on C. burnetii in European wild rabbits and is the first survey on this zoonotic pathogen performed in Iberian hares. Our results indicate widespread endemic circulation of C. burnetii and highlight the importance of both wild lagomorph species as natural reservoirs of this zoonotic bacterium in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain, which may be of public and animal health concern. The high prevalence and wide diversity of positive tick species suggest the possible role of ticks in the epidemiological cycle of C. burnetii, with the potential risk of transmission to sympatric species, including humans.

Epidemiological surveillance of Leishmania infantum in wild lagomorphs in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems

Wild lagomorphs play a key epidemiological role as reservoirs of Leishmania infantum, causative agent of the largest outbreak of human leishmaniosis in Europe to date. A large-scale survey study was conducted on wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems to evaluate the exposure of L. infantum and investigate potential risk factors associated with exposure to this zoonotic parasite. Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 631 wild lagomorphs (471 wild rabbits and 160 Iberian hares) were collected in Andalusia (southern Spain) and tested for antibodies against L. infantum using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Spleen samples from 563 of the wild lagomorphs sampled (441 wild rabbits and 122 Iberian hares) were also evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for detection of Leishmania kDNA. Exposure to L. infantum (positive by IFAT and/or qPCR) was detected in 56.4 % (356/631; 95 %CI: 52.3–60.3) of the lagomorphs analyzed. Anti-Leishmania antibodies were found in 12.8 % (81/631; 95 %CI: 10.2–15.5) of the animals, and L. infantum kDNA was detected in 59.0 % (332/563; 95 %CI: 54.9–63.0) of the spleen samples tested. Phylogenetic analysis revealed high homology (99.9–100 %) between L. infantum sequences obtained and strains previously isolated from humans in Spain. While apparent seroprevalence was significantly higher in Iberian hares (19.4 %; 95 %CI: 13.3–25.5) compared to wild rabbits (10.6 %; 95 %CI: 7.9–13.4), no significant differences in prevalence were found between wild rabbits (61.0 %; 95 %CI: 56.5–65.6) and Iberian hares (51.6 %; 95 %CI: 42.8–60.5). At least one positive animal was found on 64.8 % (70/108) of the hunting grounds sampled, and a high-risk spatial cluster (P < 0.001) was also identified in central Andalusia. The multivariable analysis identified bioclimatic level (meso-Mediterranean climate) and the presence of goats on hunting grounds as risk factors potentially associated with L. infantum exposure in wild lagomorphs. This study shows high, widespread exposure, but heterogeneous distribution of L. infantum in wild lagomorph populations in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain. The results point to the need to promote integrated surveillance programs for the detection of Leishmania spp. in wild lagomorphs in order to establish effective control measures against human leishmaniosis under a One Health approach.

Development of Highly Efficient Universal Pneumocystis Primers and Their Application in Investigating the Prevalence and Genetic Diversity of Pneumocystis in Wild Hares and Rabbits.

Despite its ubiquitous infectivity to mammals with strong host specificity, our current knowledge about Pneumocystis has originated from studies of merely 4% of extant mammalian species. Further studies of Pneumocystis epidemiology across a broader range of animal species require the use of assays with high sensitivity and specificity. To this end, we have developed multiple universal Pneumocystis primers targeting different genetic loci with high amplification efficiency. Application of these primers to PCR investigation of Pneumocystis in free-living hares (Lepus townsendii, n = 130) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, n = 8) in Canada revealed a prevalence of 81% (105/130) and 25% (2/8), respectively. Genotyping analysis identified five and two variants of Pneumocystis from hares and rabbits, respectively, with significant sequence divergence between the variants from hares. Based on phylogenetic analysis using nearly full-length sequences of the mitochondrial genome, nuclear rRNA operon and dihydropteroate synthase gene for the two most common variants, Pneumocystis in hares and rabbits are more closely related to each other than either are to Pneumocystis in other mammals. Furthermore, Pneumocystis in both hares and rabbits are more closely related to Pneumocystis in primates and dogs than to Pneumocystis in rodents. The high prevalence of Pneumocystis in hares (P. sp. 'townsendii') suggests its widespread transmissibility in the natural environment, similar to P. oryctolagi in rabbits. The presence of multiple distinct Pneumocystis populations in hares contrasts with the lack of apparent intra-species heterogeneity in P. oryctolagi, implying a unique evolution history of P. sp. 'townsendii' in hares.

Characterisation of Lagovirus europaeus GI-RHDVs (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Viruses) in Terms of Their Pathogenicity and Immunogenicity.

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease viruses (RHDV) belong to the family Caliciviridae, genus Lagovirus europaeus, genogroup GI, comprising four genotypes GI.1-GI.4, of which the genotypes GI.1 and GI.2 are pathogenic RHD viruses, while the genotypes GI.3 and GI.4 are non-pathogenic RCV (Rabbit calicivirus) viruses. Among the pathogenic genotypes GI.1 and GI.2 of RHD viruses, an antigenic variant of RHDV, named RHDVa-now GI.1a-RHDVa, was distinguished in 1996; and in 2010, a variant of RHDV-named RHDVb, later RHDV2 and now GI.2-RHDV2/b-was described; and recombinants of these viruses were registered. Pathogenic viruses of the genotype GI.1 were the cause of a disease described in 1984 in China in domestic (Oryctolagus (O.) cuniculus domesticus) and wild (O. cuniculus) rabbits, characterised by a very rapid course and a mortality rate of 90-100%, which spread in countries all over the world and which has been defined since 1989 as rabbit haemorrhagic disease. It is now accepted that GI.1-RHDV, including GI.1a-RHDVa, cause the predetermined primary haemorrhagic disease in domestic and wild rabbits, while GI.2-RHDV2/b cause it not only in rabbits, including domestic rabbits' young up to 4 weeks and rabbits immunised with rabbit haemorrhagic disease vaccine, but also in five various species of wild rabbits and seven different species of hares, as well as wild ruminants: mountain muskoxen and European badger. Among these viruses, haemagglutination-positive, doubtful and harmful viruses have been recorded and described and have been shown to form phylogenogroups, immunotypes, haematotypes and pathotypes, which, together with traits that alter and expand their infectious spectrum (rabbit, hare, wild ruminant, badger and various rabbit and hare species), are the determinants of their pathogenicity (infectivity) and immunogenicity and thus shape their virulence. These relationships are the aim of our consideration in this article.

Cornigamasus pseudocliferius n. sp., new species of mite from China based on adults and deutonymphs (Parasitiformes: Parasitidae)

A new species, Cornigamasus pseudocliferius Yao and Jin n. sp., is described based on deutonymph and adult specimens, collected from the nest of Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.) and cow dung in China. An identification key to the known species of Cornigamasus in China is provided.