Paguma Research Articles

Dietary partitioning in sympatric Paradoxurinae civets in Borneo suggested by compound-specific nitrogen isotope analysis of amino acids

We applied stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic analyses to understand the faunivory of the four sympatric wild Paradoxurinae civet species in Borneo, which share similar ecological characteristics. We also employed compound-specific nitrogen isotope analysis of amino acids to estimate these species’ trophic positions (TPs). The bulk stable isotope analysis revealed distinctly lower nitrogen isotope ratios in binturongs than in the other three species. This suggests that binturongs exhibit the lowest degree of faunivory among the four species. Binturongs had the lowest TP estimated from the nitrogen isotope ratios of amino acids (2.0–2.1), followed by small-toothed palm civets (2.4–2.5), masked palm civets (2.7), and common palm civets (2.9). These results suggest that there is little faunivory in binturong and variations in faunivory in the other species. Although the number of samples measured for the nitrogen isotope ratios of amino acids is small (n = 2 for each species), our results suggest that the varying degree of consumption of animal food sources, such as insects, is the key mechanism of niche partitioning in these four Paradoxurinae civet species in Borneo. Such subtle but essential differences in closely related sympatric species would maintain high biodiversity in tropical regions.

A Review on Characterization of SARS-COVID-19-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) and JN.1 Variant of Concern and its Global Perspective

In this review, we summarize the researches on animal reservoirs of the SARS corona virus (SARS-CoV). Masked palm civets had been suspected because the foundation of the SARS outbreak in 2003 and turned into showed because the direct foundation of SARS instances with slight symptom in 2004. Sequence evaluation of the SARS-CoV-like virus in masked palm civets indicated that they had been exceedingly homologous to human SARS-CoV with, identification over 99.6%, indicating the virus has now no longer been circulating with inside the population of masked palm civets for a totally lengthy time. Alignment of 10 entire viral genome sequences from masked palm civets with the ones of human SARS-CoVs found out 26 conserved single- nucleotide variations (SNVs) with inside the viruses from masked palm civets. These conserved SNVs had been step by step misplaced from the genomes of viruses remoted from the early section to overdue section human sufferers of the 2003 SARS epidemic. In 2005, horseshoe bats had been recognized because the herbal reservoir of a set of corona viruses which can be distantly associated with SARS-CoV. The genome sequences of bat SARS-like corona virus had approximately 88–92% identification with that of the SARS-CoV. The incidence of antibodies and viral RNA in special bat species and the traits of the bat SARS-like corona virus had been elucidated. Apart from masked palm civets and bats, 29 different animal species were examined for the SARS-CoV, and the outcomes are summarized on this paper. Corona viruses (CoV) are a massive own circle of relatives of viruses inflicting a spectrum of sickness starting from the 22 not unusual place bloodless to greater intense illnesses as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and 23 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The current outbreak of corona virus sickness 24 2019 (COVID-19) has come to be a public fitness emergency worldwide. SARS-CoV-2, the virus 25 accountable for COVID-19, is unfolded through human- to-human transmission through droplets or direct 26contact.

Further evidence for endozoochory in a mycoheterotrophic orchid Cyrtosia septentrionalis: seed dispersal by the masked palm civet Paguma larvata.

Cyrtosia septentrionalis, an orchid species, is notable for its sausage-shaped red fleshy fruits, which can reach up to 10 cm in length. Previous research identified frugivorous and omnivorous birds, especially the brown-eared bulbul Hypsipetes amaurotis (Pycnonotidae, Passeriformes), as key seed dispersers of C. septentrionalis in natural habitats. This finding challenges conventional belief that orchid seeds are primarily wind-dispersed. Moreover, given the rarity of specialized co-evolutionary relationships between fruits and frugivores, C. septentrionalis may also rely on mammals for seed dispersal in certain regions. We aimed to explore the fruit consumption habits of animals other than birds. Motion sensor-equipped cameras were used to observe interactions with the fruits of C. septentrionalis and assess the viability of seeds post-consumption. The observations revealed three animal species consuming the fruits, with the masked palm civet Paguma larvata (Viverridae, Carnivora) identified as a dominant consumer in the investigated population. Microscopy analysis of seeds retrieved from P. larvata faeces indicated that the seeds remained intact and viable after passing through the digestive system of this carnivorous mammal. The above discovery suggests a potential role for carnivorous mammals in seed dispersal of C. septentrionalis, alongside birds, thus broadening our understanding of the complex seed dispersal strategies employed by orchids.

The Ginkgo—Covid connection

Social Impact StatementGingko biloba is an iconic tree with a surprising connection to the SARS and Covid viruses that have impacted human health since 2003. Natural history studies on the ecology of Gingko seed dispersal by Carnivoran scavengers in Asia over the past 30 plus years have elucidated the deep evolutionary history that not only makes these animals effective at spreading seeds but also predisposes them to become intermediate hosts for spreading diseases to humans. Understanding the behavioral traits that underlie these kinds of plant–animal interactions has the potential to help people limit the spread of future spillover diseases.SummaryRaccoon dogs and masked palm civets are Carnivoran scavengers native to Eastern Asia that have been documented feeding on the malodorous sarcotesta of Ginkgo biloba seeds and effectively dispersing the hard nuts they contain. Research has shown that their immune systems are genetically enhanced to protect them from the disease‐causing organisms they might pick up from their omnivorous diets that include live and dead animals. Both species are farmed for fur and meat across China and, up until recently, were commonly sold in “wet” markets. Research has determined that the palm civet played a role in spreading the SARS virus to humans in 2003 and that the raccoon dog may have played a similar role in spreading Covid in Wuhan in 2019, although this has not been proven. In areas where Ginkgo is cultivated, there are numerous internet reports of Carnivorans feeding on its seeds indicating that its dispersal strategy of attracting scavengers by mimicking the smell of carrion is adaptive and effective.

Development of molecular sex identification method for Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and Small Indian civet (Viverricula indica): a step towards forensic identification

Civet coffee and perfume are premium products in demand worldwide. Consequently, the civet population is threatened by several factors (e.g., the rapidly growing trend of civets being removed from the wild and held in captivity), raising concerns about civet welfare and conservation. In light of this, our aim was to develop a molecular sex identification method for the Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus Hermaphroditus) and the Small Indian civet (Viverricula Indica). We collected five Asian palm civet tissue samples (two male, one female, and two of unknown sex) and one female Small Indian civet from the repository, Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC). DNA was extracted from all tissue samples using the DNeasy Blood and Tissue Kit. For sex identification, we optimized the PCR conditions to amplify partial fragments of sex-determining region Y (Sry) and the zinc finger X (Zfx) genes using DNA from two male Asian palm civet samples. The PCR amplicons were examined on a 2% agarose gel, and two male civets showed one distinct band at 250 bp (for Sry) and another at 120 bp (for Zfx). To confirm this finding, the PCR amplicons (Sry and Zfx genes) from one male sample were sequenced and % similarity and nucleotide pairwise analysis were calculated. The Sry and Zfx sequences showed 96.99% (for Sry) and 97.78% (Zfx) similarity to the masked palm civet, the only species in the families Paradoxurinae or Viverridae for which sequence data was publicly available. These results confirmed that the optimized PCR conditions are suitable for amplifying the Sry and Zfx genes in the Asian palm civet, which will be helpful for sex identification. Subsequently, we used this optimized method for the sex identification of three Asian palm civets and one Small Indian civet sample obtained from the repository, AIWC. Additionally, we used the method for identification of sex in a seized civet tissue sample received for forensic analysis. This report is the first to focus on developing a method for identifying the sex of Asian palm civets and Small Indian civets. This method will be helpful for researchers working on the ecology and conservation of civet population.

Estimating the Population Size of Masked Palm Civets Using Hair-Snaring in Southwest China

Estimating the Population Size of Masked Palm Civets Using Hair-Snaring in Southwest China

New host record of Thelazia callipaeda (Nematoda: Spirurida) with a notably wide host range and shared zoonotic lineage in Japan

Thelazia callipaeda (Nematoda: Spirurida: Thelaziidae) parasitizes the eyes of dogs, cats, humans, and various wild mammals, and is transmitted by drosophilid flies. In Japan, T. callipaeda is considered an emerging parasite that has expanded its endemic region northward. However, reports of its detection in mammals other than domestic animals and humans are scarce. This study reports the detection of T. callipaeda in Japanese red fox (Vulpes vulpes japonica), masked palm civet (Paguma larvata), Japanese badger (Meles anakuma), Japanese black bear (Ursus thibetanus japonicus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes viverrinus), domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris), domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus), and human. Of these, the Japanese red fox, masked palm civet, Japanese badger, and Japanese black bear have been reported as novel host records. Sequence analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene of T. callipaeda revealed two unique lineages specific to Japan, with no regional or host species differences. These results suggest a wide host range for T. callipaeda, highlighting the significant role of wildlife as a reservoir for this parasite in Japan.

Effectiveness of the trap-neuter-return method for free-roaming dog management in an urban protected area: Wildlife cannot wait

Free-roaming dogs (Canis familiaris) are invasive species that pose serious threats to wildlife, and this necessitates active management. In Taiwan, resistance to euthanizing shelter dogs has led to overcrowded shelters, which prompted a shift to trap-neuter-return (TNR) as the primary method for managing free-roaming dogs. Shoushan National Nature Park in Kaohsiung, Taiwan has experienced this problem and, therefore, implemented a high-intensity TNR program in 2018–2020. We evaluated effectiveness of TNR in dog population management and its applicability to wildlife conservation in this urban protected area. We conducted camera trapping surveys during 2014–2022 to estimate the population dynamics of dogs and wildlife. The camera traps collected 21,884 trap nights of data and 30,396 trap events of invasive and native mammals. The dog population increased significantly from 2014 to 2017 (relative abundance index (RAI): +318%; occupancy: +17%), which was probably attributed to the implementation of a no-kill policy. Afterwards, the population declined marginally from 2018 to 2021 following the TNR that was conducted (RAI: −29%; occupancy: −9%). In contrast, Reeves' muntjacs (Muntiacus reevesi) decreased significantly from its peak in 2014 to a low in 2022 (RAI: −96%; occupancy: −41%). Similarly, masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) also experienced a decline (RAI: −60%; occupancy: −25%). Population viability analysis predicted that maintaining a sterilization rate of > 75% for female dogs could theoretically control the dog population, but the 50–100 immigrants that entered the population each year would disrupt the effectiveness of the TNR treatment severely. We concluded that TNR was not sufficient in areas with conservation concerns. In addition to neutering, strategies to reduce immigration and to increase the number of dogs removed were crucial for effective management.

Food habits of invasive masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) in northern Japan

Abstract We examined the feeding habits and seasonal changes in invasive masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) in northern Japan, to understand their feeding strategies. Between 2020 and 2022, we collected 98 fecal samples from masked palm civets and analyzed their content. The civets fed mainly on fruits (78 % in terms of the point-frame method) and arthropods (15 %); fruits were consumed throughout the year, but increased in winter when arthropods were not available. The feeding plasticity of masked palm civets, in addition to their physical and behavioral adaptations, enables them to expand their distribution in introduced habitats in temperate regions.

Pesticide Contamination Levels in the Stomach Contents of Wild Raccoons (Procyon lotor) and Masked Palm Civets (Paguma larvata) in Japan.

Pesticides, which are vital for agriculture, pose a significant threat to wildlife in transformed Japanese landscapes. Despite global reports of pesticide poisoning in animals, limited studies have examined current wildlife exposure in croplands or metropolitan areas in the region. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), our study aimed to assess the contamination status of 368 commonly used pesticides. The stomach contents of raccoons living in croplands contained 13 pesticides, including six herbicides and 11 fungicides. Neonicotinoid insecticides, some fungicides, and previously banned insecticides (benzene hexachloride and dichlofenthion) were most frequently detected and found at the highest concentrations, suggesting direct soil-plant transfer and direct consumption by crop-eating species. In masked palm civets living in metropolitan areas, four insecticides and six fungicides were detected, indicating urban wildlife exposure from raided dustbins, urban gardens, and lumber from houses. Although the maximum measured concentrations of all pesticides were lower than the acceptable daily intake for humans, it remains unclear whether these concentrations may have toxic or adverse health effects on the species evaluated in these transformed landscapes. Our study is the first to examine recent pesticide exposures in wild mammals in Japan. Application of the method we developed will lay the foundation for the examination of pesticides in other wildlife species to assist conservation management efforts in the region. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:943-951. © 2024 SETAC.

Predicting potential SARS-CoV-2 spillover and spillback in animals

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic is spreading rapidly around the world, causing countries to impose lockdowns and efforts to develop vaccines on a global scale. However, human-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission cannot be ignored, as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can spread rapidly in farmed and wild animals. This could create a worrying cycle of SARS-CoV-2 spillover from humans to animals and spillback of new strains back into humans, rendering vaccines ineffective. MethodThis study provides a key indicator of animals that may be potential susceptible hosts for SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus infections by analysing the phylogenetic distance between host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and the coronavirus spike protein. Crucially, our analysis identifies animals that are at elevated risk from a spillover and spillback incident. ResultsOne group of animals has been identified as potentially susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 by harbouring a parasitic coronavirus spike protein similar to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. These animals may serve as amplification hosts in spillover events from zoonotic reservoirs. This group consists of a mixture of animals infected internally and naturally: minks, dogs, cats, tigers. Additionally, no internal or natural infections have been found in masked palm civet. ConclusionTracing interspecies transmission in multi-host environments based solely on in vitro and in vivo examinations of animal susceptibility or serology is a time-consuming task. This approach allows rapid identification of high-risk animals to prioritize research and assessment of the risk of zoonotic disease transmission in the environment. It is a tool to rapidly identify zoonotic species that may cause outbreaks or participate in expansion cycles of coexistence with their hosts. This prevents the spread of coronavirus infections between species, preventing spillover and spillback incidents from occurring.

The use of seismically isolated buildings by urban wildlife in Japan.

Some wildlife species that have expanded their range into urban areas use various anthropogenic structures for breeding and resting. We investigated the use of seismically isolated buildings, with gaps between the structures and ground surface, by urban wildlife in Japan. Camera traps set in a building revealed that masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) continued to use the building for approximately 3 years. Civet feces and footprints were found in two buildings during field sign surveys. To ensure public health, civets should be prevented from invading seismically isolated buildings by covering gaps with elastic materials and avoiding placing pipes that could be used by the animals near these gaps.

Phylogenetic status and diet of red fox (Vulpes vulpes griffithii) inhabiting Ayubia National Park, Pakistan

Abstract The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a medium-sized carnivore that occurs in different regions of Pakistan, however, still lacks scientific data on its ecology and distribution. The current study investigated the phylogenetic status and diet of the red fox (V.v. griffithii) occurring in Ayubia National Park, Pakistan. Through camera trapping and molecular analysis, we confirmed the occurrence of red fox in the study area. Based on mitochondrial cytochrome B (304 bp) and limited sampling, nearly all red foxes of Ayubia National Park and surrounding Himalayan ranges fall within Holarctic maternal lineage, whereas red foxes found in plains of Pakistan are part of the basal Palearctic maternal lineage. Using 32 scats, we found that red fox diet comprises of 80% animal-based prey species (both wild and domestic) and 19% plant matter. The wild animal prey species included Cape hare (Lepus capensis) and flying squirrel (Pteromyini sp.), which constituted 17% and 15% of diet, respectively. Red foxes infrequently consumed House mouse (Mus musculus), Himalayan Palm civet (Paguma larvata) and sheep (Ovis aries), each comprising around 6% to 9% of red fox diet. The fox species also scavenged on domestic donkey opportunistically. Based on our sampling, our study suggests that the red fox (V.v. griffithii) that occurs in Ayubia National Park and across the lesser Himalayan ranges belongs to Holarctic maternal lineage. The study also highlights consumption of plant seeds by red foxes, indicating it may play an important ecological role in seed dispersal in Ayubia National Park.

Treatment of myiasis in Lombok civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) at ex-situ conservation institutions

Lombok Wildlife Park is an ex-situ conservation institution in the form of a wildlife park that supports the safety of wild animal species. The Lombok civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) is a wild animal kept in the same cage as the female moon civet (Paguma larvata). The Lombok civet was found to have a vulnus at the base of its tail and continued with myiasis. The Lombok civet was treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs for wound healing. Myiasis was treated by administering larvicide, and larvae were manually removed. After five days of treatment, the vulnus was still not completely healed, fly larvae were no longer visible, and appetite was still poor.

Multiomics and bioinformatics identify differentially expressed effectors in the brain of Toxoplasma gondii infected masked palm civet.

The masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) serves as a reservoir in transmitting pathogens, such as Toxoplasma gondii, to humans. However, the pathogenesis of T. gondii infection in masked palm civets has not been explored. We studied the molecular changes in the brain tissue of masked palm civets chronically infected with T. gondii ME49. The differentially expressed proteins in the brain tissue were investigated using iTRAQ and bioinformatics. A total of 268 differential proteins were identified, of which 111 were upregulated and 157 were downregulated. KEGG analysis identified pathways including PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, proteoglycans in cancer, carbon metabolism, T-cell receptor signaling pathway. Combing transcriptomic and proteomics data, we identified 24 genes that were differentially expressed on both mRNA and protein levels. The top four upregulated proteins were REEP3, REEP4, TEP1, and EEPD1, which was confirmed by western blot and immunohistochemistry. KEGG analysis of these 24 genes identified signaling cascades that were associated with small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathways among others. To understand the mechanism of the observed alteration, we conducted immune infiltration analysis using TIMER databases which identified immune cells that are associated with the upregulation of these proteins. Protein network analysis identified 44 proteins that were in close relation to all four proteins. These proteins were significantly enriched in immunoregulation and cancer pathways including PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Notch signaling pathway, chemokine signaling pathway, cell cycle, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Bioinformatics utilizing two cancer databases (TCGA and GEPIA) revealed that the four genes were upregulated in many cancer types including glioblastoma (GBM). In addition, higher expression of REEP3 and EEPD1 was associated with better prognosis, while higher expression of REEP4 and TEP1 was associated with poor prognosis in GBM patients. We identified the differentially expressed genes in the brain of T. gondii infected masked palm civets. These genes were associated with various cellular signaling pathways including those that are immune- and cancer-related.

First Report on the Movements Related to Feeding Behavior and Potential Importance as a Seed Disperser of the Masked Palm Civet Paguma larvata in Borneo

First Report on the Movements Related to Feeding Behavior and Potential Importance as a Seed Disperser of the Masked Palm Civet Paguma larvata in Borneo

Breeding records, urban habitat, and threats to the masked palm civet in Taiwan

AbstractAn increasing number of mammalian species worldwide have adapted to urban environments following the alteration and fragmentation of natural habitats. In recent years, the masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) has increased in several highly populated cities in Taiwan. Twelve‐years (2010–2021) of civet records in Taichung (the largest city in central Taiwan) from the rescue center of Taichung Wildlife Conservation Group report the population of civets has grown steadily since 2017, with the number of records in 2020 (n = 58) and 2021 (n = 55) approximately 5 times of that in 2010–2014 (mean ± SD = 5.0 ± 2.6). Our objective was to use the records from the rescue center to evaluate the potential sexual dimorphism of urban civets, explore temporal variation of civet activity and age structure, identify major threats to civets inhabiting urban areas, and investigate the environmental characteristics surrounding civet nesting sites in urban environments. The civet breeding season lasts from spring to autumn, with primary mating season in spring. The main cause of mortality in adults was dog attack followed by car accident, while the main rescue reason for young civets was because they were considered orphans following human interferences. Many civets in urban areas inhabit locations where >90% of the land cover is covered by buildings and man‐made structures, and even nest inside buildings. Our results demonstrated the need for new civet conservation and management policies to minimize dog attacks on civets to enhance co‐existence between wildlife and humans.

Den site selection and seasonal changes in use patterns by the masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) in urban areas of Morioka City, Japan

Den site selection and seasonal changes in use patterns by the masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) in urban areas of Morioka City, Japan

Conflicting selection pressures on seed size and germination caused by carnivorous seed dispersers.

Plants produce nutritious, fleshy fruits that attract various animals to facilitate seed dispersal and recruitment dynamic. Species-specific differential selection of seed size by multiple frugivorous disperser assemblages may affect the subsequent germination of the ingested seeds. However, there is little empirical evidence supporting this association. In the present study, we documented conflicting selection pressures exerted on seed size and germination by five frugivorous carnivores on a mammal-dispersed pioneer tree, the date-plum persimmon (Diospyros lotus), in a subtropical forest. Fecal analyses revealed that these carnivores acted as primary seed dispersers of D. lotus. We also observed that seed sizes were selected based on body mass and were species-specific, confirming the "gape limitation" hypothesis; three small carnivores (the masked palm civet Paguma larvata, yellow-throated marten Martes flavigula, and Chinese ferret-badger Melogale moschata) significantly preferred to disperse smaller seeds in comparison with control seeds obtained directly from wild plants whereas the largest Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) ingested larger seeds. Seeds dispersed by medium-sized hog badgers (Arctonyx albogularis) were not significantly different from control seeds. However, regarding the influence of gut passage on seed germination, three arboreal dispersal agents (martens, civets, and bears) enhanced germination success whereas terrestrial species (ferret-badgers and hog badgers) inhibited the germination process compared with undigested control seeds. These conflicting selection pressures on seed size and germination may enhance the heterogeneity of germination dynamics and thus increase species fitness through diversification of the regeneration niche. Our results advance our understanding of seed dispersal mechanisms and have important implications for forest recruitment and ecosystem dynamics.

Small carnivores contribute surrogate seed dispersers for a megafaunal-fruited liana in subtropical Asia

The megafaunal seed dispersal hypothesis posits that mega-fruits co-evolved for seed dispersal by extremely large mammals, such as elephant-like gomphotheres, which became extinct during the Pleistocene. Nevertheless, various plants in subtropical Asia still produce oversized fruits as a seed dispersal syndrome anachronism. Here, we investigated how a mega-fruited perennial woody liana, Akebia trifoliata achieves the consumption of its large, sweet, edible fruits to disperse its seeds in a subtropical region on China where the mega frugivores are absent nowadays. We hypothesized that some other surrogate species may be fulfilling this dispersal function. From 2926 fecal samples from 13 species of mammal and various unidentified birds, collected over two years, we identified A. trifoliata seeds in only 13 feces from the masked palm civet (Paguma larvata). Our systematic sampling allowed us to eliminate any role being played by all other plausible dispersal mutualists; not least, these fruits rarely fall to the ground and deteriorate quickly, and so must be picked from the vine by species able to reach 2–5m above the ground. Of 338 masked palm civet feces examined during the August to September fruiting season only 3.85% (frequency of occurrence) contained A. trifoliata seeds, although when seeds were present, they were abundant (c. 600/feces). All seeds passing through the gut of masked palm civets were intact. Moreover, masked palm civets mainly dispersed A. trifoliata seeds in degraded habitats (i.e., the logged, and selectively logged forests). These results showed that although masked palm civets dispersed A. trifoliata seeds in low proportion, they could play a surrogate seed dispersal role for this mega-fruit vine species, especially in degraded forests. Our findings highlight that, in subtopical Asia, small frugivorous carnivores can act as surrogate seed dispersers for oversized fruit plants, advancing knowledge on how past species interactions and defaunation underlie modern plant distributions.