Rusa Deer Research Articles

Two Novel, Distantly Related Papillomaviruses Isolated from Healthy Skin of the Timor Deer (Rusa timorensis).

ABSTRACTWe report the complete genome sequences of Rusa timorensis papillomavirus 1 (RtimPV1) and Rusa timorensis papillomavirus 2 (RtimPV2), isolated from hair follicles of asymptomatic skin from the same Timor deer specimen. RtimPV1 and RtimPV2 are evolutionarily only distantly related. RtimPV1 lacks a canonical E2-binding site, and RtimPV2 does not carry an E6 gene.

The Development of Timor Deer Breeding in Tahura Wan Abdul Rachman Lampung

The presence of National Forest Park (Tahura) Wan Abdul Rachman is an opportunity to be developed into ecotourism if it is well-managed and have support from stakeholders especially the local community. The purpose of this study is to know the potential of human resource, management capabilities, community support in Tahura Wan Abdul Rachman and to formulate priority development strategy of captive breeding timor deer into ecotourism. This research was conducted during February to April 2017. Data was collected by observation and interview. The data was analyzed descriptively using SWOT analysis. The result showed that the existence of captive timor deer in Tahura Wan Abdul Rachman can be developed into ecotourism because of the support from society and other stakeholder. Management Unit in Tahura Wan Abdul Rachman was implemented the functions of management such as planning, organizing, actuating and controlling. A main priority of strategy to maintain and develop the ecotourism potential based on deer breeding is by improving coordination and cooperation between UPTD Tahura Wan Abdul Rachman as the organizer of deer breeding unit with local Goverment of Lampung Province, private party and community.Keywords: deer breeding, ecotourism, human resource, management.

Molecular detection and subtyping of Blastocystis in Javan rusa (Cervus timorensis) and sika deer (Cervus nippon) from Peninsular Malaysia

Molecular detection and subtyping of Blastocystis in Javan rusa (Cervus timorensis) and sika deer (Cervus nippon) from Peninsular Malaysia

Molecular investigation of Anaplasma spp. in domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia.

Anaplasma spp. are Gram-negative obligate intracellular, tick-borne bacteria which are of medical and veterinary importance. Little information is available on Anaplasma infection affecting domestic and wildlife animals in Malaysia. This study investigated the presence of Anaplasma spp. in the blood samples of domestic and wildlife animals in Peninsular Malaysia, using polymerase chain reaction (EHR-PCR) assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasmataceae. High detection rates (60.7% and 59.0%, respectively) of Anaplasma DNA were noted in 224 cattle (Bos taurus) and 78 deer (77 Rusa timorensis and one Rusa unicolor) investigated in this study. Of the 60 amplified fragments obtained for sequence analysis, Anaplasma marginale was exclusively detected in cattle while Anaplasma platys/Anaplasma phagocytophilum was predominantly detected in the deer. Based on sequence analyses of the longer fragment of the 16S rRNA gene (approximately 1000 bp), the occurrence of A. marginale, Anaplasma capra and Candidatus Anaplasma camelii in cattle, Candidatus A. camelii in deer and Anaplasma bovis in a goat was identified in this study. To assess whether animals were infected with more than one species of Anaplasma, nested amplification of A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and Ehrlichia chaffeensis DNA was performed for 33 animal samples initially screened positive for Anaplasmataceae. No amplification of E. chaffeensis DNA was obtained from animals investigated. BLAST analyses of the 16S rDNA sequences from three deer (R. timorensis), a buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and a cow (B. taurus) reveal similarity with that of Candidatus Anaplasma boleense strain (GenBank accession no.: KX987335). Sequence analyses of the partial gene fragments of major surface protein (msp4) gene from two deer (R. timorensis) and a monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) show the detection of a strain highly similar (99%) to that of A. phagocytophilum strain ZJ-China (EU008082). The findings in this study show the occurrence of various Anaplasma species including those newly reported species in Malaysian domestic and wildlife animals. The role of these animals as reservoirs/maintenance hosts for Anaplasma infection are yet to be determined.

Returns from Indigenous Hunting in The Lowland Coastal Forests of West Papua, Benefits Threatened Wildlife Species

We conducted a study in eleven villages in the West Papuan Bird's Head Peninsula to determine hunting returns from indigenous hunting in lowland coastal forests. In each town three collaborative hunters were recruited and trained to complete an information sheet for each hunting trip whether or not they were successful, and if so, how many individuals per species were killed and their common names. The results indicated that hunting returns during seven months of observations were 301 animals comprising of timor deer, wild pig, dusky pademelon, grizzled tree kangaroo and common spotted cuscus. The most commonly hunted were two non-native species-wild pigs and deer with a total of 11,475 kg of dressed weight harvested and which we valued at IDR230,625,000 (US$17,435). A lowland forest ecosystem along the coast provides suitable habitats for the largest animals occurring within the sampled villages, like deer and wild pig. Hunting those species–deer and wild pig may provide conservation benefits to native species. There was little evidence of hunting native species or those of conservation concern. From ecology perspective, prey species and hunting return across the lowland coastal forest of West Papua has introduced wildlife species occurring at degraded habitat. Economically, the number of species hunted within the sampled village areas is determined by the hunter's assessment of profitability. Deer and wild pig are targeted because they provide a large amount of meat for both subsistence and sale purposes.

Selection of forages by timor deer (cervus timorensis blainville) in menjangan island, bali

This study was conducted to determine the selection of forages plants by Timor deer (Cervus timorensis) on Menjangan Island and its relation to the availability, chemical and physical properties of feed plants. The study was conducted in July-September 2016 in savanna and monsoon forest habitats. The availability of habitat feed plants in the habitat was determined by the quadrat method, and the species of plant eaten by Timor deer was determined through the microhistological analysis of the fecal sample. The food selection index is determine by the Ivlev index. Energy contents of forages plants by bomb calorimeter apparatus, crude protein analyzed by Semi-Micro Kjeldahl technique, NDF, ADF and lignin levels refer to the method of Goering and Van Soest. Mineral content of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Determination of tannin content with Folin Denish reaction. Physical properties determine are water regain capacity and water solubility. The relationship between availability with the utilization of plants by Timor deer was analyzed with the similarity index. Multiple regression statistic to test the relationship between index selection with nutritional value factor and physical characteristic of plant species. The result showed that Timor deer selected 32 plants species of graminoids, forbs and woody plants. Feeding selection of Timor deer is strongly influenced by the availability of forage plants in habitat. The feeding selection was significantly influenced by three predictor variables i.e. positive nutritional value is crude protein and negative nutritional value were lignin and tannins. Selection of forage plant Timor deer is positively correlated with the physical properties of feed plants.

<b>Observations of occurrence and daily activity patterns of ungulates in the Endau Rompin Landscape, peninsular Malaysia</b>

Camera trap data was used to study occurrence and daily activity patterns in the Endau Rompin Landscape of peninsular Malaysia during 2011, 2013 and 2015 to estimate Malayan Tiger Panthera tigris jacksoni population densities. By-catch data were also collected for seven ungulate species: Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak, Bearded Pig Sus barbatus, Wild Boar Sus scrofa, Greater Mousedeer Tragulus napu, Lesser Mousedeer Tragulus kanchil, Malayan Tapir Tapirus indicus and Sambar Deer Rusa unicolor. Of these, Bayesian single-season occupancy analysis suggested that Barking Deer were the most widespread and Mousedeer spp. the least widespread during the study period. Bearded Pig, Malayan Tapir and Wild Boar were recorded in more than half of the camera trap area (Sambar Deer was excluded due to small sample size). Daily activity patterns based on independent captures in 2015 suggest that Barking Deer, Bearded Pig and Wild Boar are mostly diurnal, mousedeer species are crepuscular and Malayan Tapir strongly nocturnal.

Hematologic Profile and Semen Quality of Male Timor Deer (Rusa timorensis) at Various Hierarchies

The aim of this research was to observe hematologic profile i.e. erythrocyte count, hemoglobin and hematocrit and semen quality, i.e. semen volume, sperm motility and sperm abnormality of α-male, β-male and subordinate male Timor deer raised under captivity. Twelve males (51 ± 6 months old; 68.29 ± 8.41kg body weight) at similar antler stages were use in this study. Before and after 43 days of establishment of dominance hierarchy blood were sampled after sedation for erythrocyte count, hemoglobin (mg/dL), and hematocrit (%). Likewise, semen was collected using electroejaculator and were analyzed for semen volume (ml), sperm motility (%) and sperm abnormality (%) to compare male deer at various heirarchies. Wilcoxon signed ranks test and Kruskal-Wallis H test of non-parametric analysis was done. Significant difference was tested with Mann-Whitney U test. The results showed that highest count of erythrocyte shown on α and β-male (1.60 million per µL). The highest increase in hematocrit was observed in β-male (5%) and then followed by S2-male (4%). S2-male had the highest increase in hemoglobin (0.13 g/dL). The highest increase in semen volume was observed in α –male (0.75 ml). Social stress affected negatively the sperm motility and abnormality (P<0.05). The highest decrease was observed in S2-male.

Isolation and phylogenetic analysis of Bartonella species from Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) in Thailand.

The aim of the present study is to investigate the prevalence of Bartonella infection in deer in Thailand and to characterize the isolates by biochemical, morphological and genetic analysis. A total of 247 blood samples were collected from Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) in a livestock breeding facility in Thailand. Bartonella bacteria were isolated in 3.6% of the blood samples. Three out of 110 (2.7%) males and 6 of 137 (4.4%) females were positive for Bartonella. A higher prevalence of Bartonella was observed in young deer under 4 years of age compared to adults over 4 years of age, but no Bartonella was isolated from deer over 8 years of age. Phylogenetic analysis of concatenated sequences of seven loci of Bartonella indicated that all the isolates from Rusa deer in Thailand were identical and formed a distinct cluster from other known Bartonella species.

Effect of postmortem storage on shear force value and calpain/calpastatin activity in longissimus dorsi muscle of rusa deer (cervus timorensis)

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of aging period on shear force values and activities of calpain/calpastatin enzymes of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle from rusa deer (Cervus timorensis). The shear force values were measured with instron materials testing machine. Results showed that postmortem storage influenced meat tenderness with a highly significant reduction of shear force value from 9.01±0.83 kg/cm2 at day 1 to 4.34±0.10 kg/cm2 at day 21 (P&lt;0.01). Determination of the enzyme activities indicated that the μ-calpain activity decreased significantly from 1.50±0.42 to 0.19±0.28 units/g of meat (P&lt;0.01), whereas m-calpain activity (22.88±9.64 to 16.95±8.34 units/g of meat) and calpastatin activity (9.93±2.37 to 6.82±2.96 units/g of meat) slightly decreased (P&gt;0.05). Shear force values were significant correlated with higher levels of μ-calpain (r=0.915) and m-calpain (r=0.758), respectively. However, the values were not significant related to the calpastatin activity (r=0.462). Therefore, this study confirmed that in the case of rusa deer, μ-calpain is a key factor controlling postmortem meat tenderness compared to m-calpain and calpastatin. The results suggested that storage of the rusa deer meat for 7 days is enough to achieve aging of the LD muscle, which may help to reduce the cost of meat production.

The existence of High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF) in Perum Perhutani KPH Kendal to support Implementation of FSC Certification

High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF) is the identification of High Conservation Values that are important and need to be protected. Under FSC certification mechanism, HCVF becomes one of Principles and Criteria to attain certification. In this study, we identify the existence of HCVF in Perum Perhutani KPH Kendal to support implementation process of FSC certification. Qualitative method was conducted through observation and secondary data from Perum Perhutani KPH Kendal. Data analysis showed through ecolabel certification, Perum Perhutani KPH Kendal has been identified HCVF area covering 2,715.5 hectares consists of HCV 1 until 6. Secondary Natural Forest (HAS) Subah and Kaliwungu for Ulolanang and Pagerwunung Nature Reserve buffer zone include as HCV 1.1, conservation area of leopard (Panthera pardus melas) and Pangolin (Manis javanica).for HCV 1.2, conservation area of lutung (Trachypiyhecus auratus) as endemic species for CITES App I and Critically Endangered species include as HCV 1.3, Goa kiskendo for bats species habitat include as HCV 1.4, regions of interest species for Deer (Cervus timorensis) and Kepodang (Oriolus chinensis) as HCV 2.3, Germplasm Protection Region/ KPPN area with high biodiversity include as HCV 3, river border area and water springs for HCV 4. While, utilization of firewood, grass for cattle fodder include as HCV 5 and 14 cultural sites include as HCV 6. From monitoring and evaluation of HCVF data, showed that in 2011-2015 the level of diversity for flora and fauna were increased.

Human-mediated introduction of introgressed deer across Wallace's line: Historical biogeography of Rusa unicolor and R. timorensis.

In this study we compared the phylogeographic patterns of two Rusa species, Rusa unicolor and Rusa timorensis, in order to understand what drove and maintained differentiation between these two geographically and genetically close species and investigated the route of introduction of individuals to the islands outside of the Sunda Shelf. We analyzed full mitogenomes from 56 archival samples from the distribution areas of the two species and 18 microsatellite loci in a subset of 16 individuals to generate the phylogeographic patterns of both species. Bayesian inference with fossil calibration was used to estimate the age of each species and major divergence events. Our results indicated that the split between the two species took place during the Pleistocene, ~1.8 Mya, possibly driven by adaptations of R. timorensis to the drier climate found on Java compared to the other islands of Sundaland. Although both markers identified two well‐differentiated clades, there was a largely discrepant pattern between mitochondrial and nuclear markers. While nDNA separated the individuals into the two species, largely in agreement with their museum label, mtDNA revealed that all R. timorensis sampled to the east of the Sunda shelf carried haplotypes from R. unicolor and one Rusa unicolor from South Sumatra carried a R. timorensis haplotype. Our results show that hybridization occurred between these two sister species in Sundaland during the Late Pleistocene and resulted in human‐mediated introduction of hybrid descendants in all islands outside Sundaland.

Body measurements and testosteron level of male Timor deer (Rusa timorensis) at various hierarchies

The aim of this research was to observe body (neck, chest and scrotum) circumferences and testosterone level of α-male, β-male and subordinate male Timor deer reared under captivity after establisment of the dominance hierarchy. Twelve males (51 ± 6 months old; 68.29 ± 8.41 kg body weight and in same antler stages) were used in this research. The bucks was grouped into three stall each containing four bucks. ELISA kit and tape measurements were used for plasma Testosterone assay and body measurement, respectively. Data was collected before and 43 days after establishment of the dominance hierarchy. Wilcoxon signed ranks test and Kruskal-Wallis H test of non-parametric analysis was used. Significant difference was tested with Mann-Whitney U test. The results showed no significantly different for body circumferences (neck, chest, scrotum) and testosterone level of male Timor deer before establishment of dominance hierarchy. Chest and scrotum circumferences of male Timor deer after establihment of dominance hierarchy showed no significantly different. Significantly difference shown on parameter neck circumference (P&lt;0.05; χ2 = 8.74) and testosteron level (P&lt;0.05; χ2 = 7.87) after establishment of dominance hierarchy. In conclusion, dominance hierarchy affected the testosterone level and body measurement.

Crossing the (Wallace) line: local abundance and distribution of mammals across biogeographic barriers

AbstractPast and ongoing vertebrate introductions threaten to rearrange ecological communities in the Indo‐Malay Archipelago, one of Earth's most biodiverse regions. But the consequences of these translocations are difficult to predict. We compared local abundance and distributions in four tropical mammal lineages that have crossed from Asia to Wallacea or New Guinea. The local abundance of macaques (Macaca spp.), which naturally crossed Wallace's Line, was higher in Sulawesi (east of the line; mean = 3.7 individuals per camera station, 95% CI = 2.2: 5.1) than in Borneo (west of the line; mean = 1.1, CI = 0.8: 1.4), but the local abundance of Malay civets (Viverra tangalunga), Rusa deer, and Sus pigs was similar in their native ranges and where they had been introduced by humans east of Wallace's Line. Proximity to rivers increased Malay Civet local abundance and decreased the local abundance of pigs in parts of their introduced ranges (Maluku and New Guinea, respectively), while having no effect on local abundance in their native ranges (Borneo) or other areas where they have been introduced (Sulawesi). That local abundance was higher east of Wallace's Line in just one of four mammal lineages is consistent with findings from plant invasions, where most species have similar abundance in their native and introduced ranges. However, species’ ecology may change as they enter new communities, for example, their patterns of abundance at local scales. This could make it difficult to predict community structure in the face of ongoing species introductions.

Ecological preferences of large carnivores in remote, high-altitude protected areas: insights from Buxa Tiger Reserve, India

AbstractDifficult terrain and inclement weather limit our knowledge of large predators, such as the tigerPanthera tigris, in the Himalayas. A lack of empirical data on large carnivores can lead to mismanagement of protected areas and population declines. We used non-invasive genetic and remote sensing data to inform the management of such high-altitude protected areas. We used the tiger as a focal species to investigate prey preference and habitat suitability in India's Buxa Tiger Reserve, which encompasses several eco-geographical regions in the Himalayan and subtropical zones. During 2010–2013, 909 faecal samples were collected, of which 372 were confirmed, using genetic analysis, to be of tiger origin. Fourteen prey species/groups were identified in 240 tiger faecal samples, largely dominated by goatsCapraspp. (26.59%), rhesus macaquesMacaca mulatta(22.22%) and cattleBosspp. (20.63%). Considering only the wild prey species for which survey data are available, however, and frequency of occurrence of prey in faecal samples, hog deerAxis porcinus, sambar deerRusa unicolorand spotted deerAxis axiswere the most preferred prey species. Using faecal sample locations to examine the relationship between tiger presence and environmental features indicated that the niche for tigers is narrower than the available protected area: c. 62% of core protected area is suitable, of which only 17% is highly suitable for tigers. Tigers prefer dense vegetation, open forests, riverine vegetation and areas close to water sources. Faecal sample-based studies have the potential to generate data that can help us understand the ecology of elusive carnivore species inhabiting high-altitude landscapes.

Semen characteristics, extension, and cryopreservation of Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis).

Aim:The objective of this research is to report parameters for breeding soundness evaluation, semen extension, and cryopreservation in Rusa timorensis.Materials and Methods:Seven healthy stags were chosen for semen collection using an electroejaculator. The collections were performed twice in a breeding season between February and June 2016. Samples were collected between 2 and 3 weeks interval, collected twice for each animal. Semen was evaluated, extended, and cryopreserved using four different extenders; Andromed®, BioXcell®, Triladyl®, and a modified Tris-egg yolk combined with Eurycoma longifolia Jack.Results:R. timorensis semen characteristics according to volume (ml), color, sperm concentration (106/ml), general motility (%), progressive motility (%), and % morphology of normal spermatozoa are 0.86±0.18 ml, thin milky to milky, 1194.2±346.1 106/ml, 82.9±2.8%, 76.1±4.8%, and 83.9±4.8%, respectively.Conclusion:Semen characteristics of R. timorensis collected by electroejaculation is good allowing for cryopreservation and future artificial insemination work. The most suitable extender for Rusa deer semen is Andromed®.

&lt;b&gt;Wildlife hunting by indigenous people in a Philippine protected area: a perspective from Mt. Apo National Park, Mindanao Island&lt;/b&gt;

Indigenous people play a major role in the conservation of wildlife species in protected areas. This paper provides an insight on the involvement of indigenous people in protecting and hunting of wildlife species in Mt. Apo National Park, Mindanao Island, Philippines. Here, I assessed indigenous knowledge and practices towards wildlife hunting from three villages from Mt. Apo through immersions, interviews, and focus group discussion between May 2014 and January 2015. The majority of wildlife hunters I encountered were male and married between the ages of 35–60 years old. Commonly hunted wildlife species from the national park included large wildlife species such as the endemic and threatened Philippine Warty Pig Sus philippensis, Philippine Brown Deer Rusa marianna, Common Palm Civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, Reticulated Python Malayopython reticulatus, Common Monitor Lizard Varanus salvator and other large birds such as Rufous Hornbills Buceros hydrocorax, large dove species (i.e., Dacula spp.). In the past, wildlife hunting was most commonly done for sustenance and culture. But, poverty and the lack of alternative livelihoods have become a recent motivation to hunt wildlife. This current findings in this study suggest that wildlife are essential for indigenous people in protected areas, however, hunting practices should be monitored and provide alternative livelihood options to reduce threats. This study introduced the vital links between local communities and wildlife in protected areas. Thus, engaging and empowering indigenous people and local communities in wildlife protection combined with appropriate conservation planning are the first steps forward in attaining sustainable and effective local conservation in protected areas.

Study of testicular immunolocalization of inhibin subunits and epididymal histological structures among different antler status in rusa deer (Rusa timorensis)

Study of testicular immunolocalization of inhibin subunits and epididymal histological structures among different antler status in rusa deer (Rusa timorensis)

Free-ranging livestock influence species richness, occupancy, and daily behaviour of wild mammalian species in Baluran National Park, Indonesia

In some developing countries, human activities in protected areas threaten wildlife populations and their habitats. This study was conducted to understand the influences of free-range livestock on the wild mammalian population in Baluran National Park, Indonesia. There were 3852 and 1156 cows and goats, respectively, and livestock occupied an area of approximately 55.96km2. The species richness and probability of occupancy in areas with and without livestock were assessed, and the spatial co-occurrence and overlap of daily activity patterns among mammalian species and livestock were measured. A total of 39 camera traps were installed from August 2015 to January 2016, collecting 23,021 independent photographs. In areas with livestock, the number of mammal species (eight) was lower than in areas without livestock (11 species). The most affected species were the large herbivores Bubalus bubalis and Bos javanicus, and a large carnivore Panthera pardus, all of which were absent in areas with livestock. Regardless of the feeding guild, the probability of occupancy of almost all species declined in areas with livestock, except the medium herbivores Paradoxurus hermaphroditus and Hystrix javanica that showed a higher probability of occupancy. The species whose probability of occupancy declined were the carnivores Cuon alpinus and Prionailurus bengalensis; the herbivores Rusa timorensis, Tracypithecus auratus and Muntiacus muntjak; and the omnivore Sus scrofa. In the presence of livestock, R. timorensis and S. scrofa changed their activities from diurnal to nocturnal. Livestock affected most wild mammals in several ways, including by reducing the species richness, lessening the probability of occupancy and changing the daily activity patterns of many animals. This research recommends a significant reduction in the size of the range area for domestic livestock.

Sequencing characterization and expression analysis of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) and Thai cervidae

Sequencing characterization and expression analysis of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) and Thai cervidae