Search Results (25)

The European mink Mustela lutreola is one of the most threatened carnivores in Europe, having suffered dramatic range contractions and severe population fragmentation. Accurate knowledge of its genetic diversity is crucial for conservation planning, yet earlier studies based on partial mitochondrial markers offered limited resolution and often underestimated haplotype richness. In this study, complete mitochondrial genomes from four extant populations (Russia, n = 11; Romania, n = 16; Germany, n = 24; France–Spain, n = 15) were analysed using a suite of non-parametric and asymptotic estimators (Fisher’s α, ACE, Jackknife1, Bootstrap, Chao1-based iNEXT) together with negative binomial modelling. A total of 41 haplotypes were detected, but extrapolated estimates indicated substantially higher richness, particularly in populations dominated by singletons. Rarefaction and extrapolation analyses revealed that sample sizes of 70–130 individuals per population are needed to approach complete haplotype detection. The France–Spain and Romania populations harboured the highest predicted richness, whereas Germany and Russia, both represented by ex situ stocks, showed lower diversity. These results refine earlier assumptions of extreme homogeneity in the Western population and demonstrate that significant mitochondrial variation persists at the continental scale. The study provides quantitative benchmarks for sampling design and genetic management, supporting preservation of evolutionary potential in this critically endangered species. Full article

Amdoparvoviruses, encompassing the well-characterized Aleutian mink disease viruses (AMDV) as well as less investigated viruses infecting both captive and wild animals, are important carnivoran viruses that are significant pathogens in the mink farming industry. We investigated the molecular epidemiology of amdoparvoviruses among Danish wildlife. Spleen samples from 118 animals of seven carnivoran species were screened with a pan-amdoparvovirus PCR, and the identified viruses were molecularly characterized. In one of five European badgers (Meles meles), we identified an AMDV-3 strain whose ancestors were likely of farmed mink origin. This virus was last reported on a mink farm in 2002, demonstrating how farm-derived viruses have established themselves among wildlife. We also discovered and fully characterized a novel virus found in five of 81 (6.2%) foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and one of five badgers (20.0%), which we named fox and badger amdoparvovirus 1 (FBAV-1). FBAV-1 fulfills the criteria for classification as a novel species and phylogenetically is positioned as an intermediate between the North American and Eurasian amdoparvoviral clades. This study provides baseline data and expands our understanding of amdoparvoviral ecology. Further studies including more animals across diverse geographic areas are warranted to clarify amdoparvovirus epidemiology, spread, cross-species transmission, epidemic potential, and evolutionary paths. Full article

We examined three decades of changes in the mammal fauna of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in the context of climate variability, land use transformation, and anthropogenic pressures. We compiled distributional, abundance, and status data from publications, atlases, official game statistics, and long-term monitoring programs, and we evaluated trends using compound annual growth rates or temporal indices. Our review identified losses such as regional extinctions of garden dormice and European mink, declines in small insectivores (e.g., pond bats and shrews) and herbivores (e.g., Microtus voles), and the contraction of boreal specialists (e.g., Siberian flying squirrels). However, we also identified gains, including increases in ungulate numbers (e.g., roe deer, red deer, fallow deer, moose, and wild boars before African swine fewer outbreak) and the recovery of large carnivores (e.g., wolves and lynxes). Invasions by non-native species (e.g., American mink, raccoon dog, and raccoon) and episodic disturbances, such as African swine fever and the “anthropause” caused by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, have further reshaped community composition. The drivers encompass climatic warming, post-socialist forest succession, intensified hunting management, and rewilding policies, with dispersal capacity mediating the responses of species. Our results underscore the dual legacy of historical land use and contemporary climate forcing in structuring the fauna dynamics of Baltic mammal communities in the face of declining specialists and invasive taxa. Full article

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affects a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Domestic and wild felines serve as definitive hosts, excreting oocysts that contaminate the environment. Intermediate hosts, such as the endangered European mink (Mustela lutreola) and the non-native American mink (Neogale vison), can become infected primarily through the ingestion of tissue cysts present in prey, while the ingestion of oocysts from contaminated soil or water plays a secondary role. This study analyzed the seroprevalence of T. gondii in 179 mink specimens (137 American mink and 42 European mink) collected in northern Spain from 2014 to 2020. Using an optimized indirect immunofluorescence assay, antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 47 samples (37 American mink and 10 European mink). Seroprevalence was higher in the Ebro basin than in the Cantabrian region, although the difference was not statistically significant. No significant associations were observed between seropositivity and species, sex, or habitat. These findings suggest environmental contamination by T. gondii oocysts in northern Spain and underscore the potential value of invasive American mink as sentinel species for monitoring public health risks associated with this parasite. The study also highlights the importance of wildlife surveillance in assessing environmental contamination and understanding transmission dynamics of infectious diseases in ecosystems. Full article

Aleutian Mink Disease Virus (AMDV) is the causative agent of Aleutian disease (AD). This progressive and chronic disorder significantly impacts the mink breeding industry, affecting farmed and free-ranging American and European mink. This study investigated AMDV variants isolated from free-ranging American mink in northeastern Poland. Between 2018 and 2019, 26 spleen samples were collected from mink in Narew National Park (NNP) and Biebrza National Park (BNP). DNA was extracted and subjected to PCR to amplify the NS1 gene, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The NS1 gene was detected in 50% of samples from NNP minks and in 30% of samples from BNP minks, with an overall prevalence of 42.31%; these findings align with global data and indicate serious ecological and health concerns. Ten closely related AMDV variants and one distinct variant were identified. The grouped variants exhibited high genetic homogeneity, closely related to strains found in mink from the USA, Germany, Greece, Latvia, and Poland; meanwhile, the distinct variant showed similarities to strains found in mink from Finland, Denmark, China, Poland, and Latvia, suggesting multiple infection sources. These findings, consistent with data from Polish mink farms, indicate significant genetic similarity between farmed and wild mink strains, suggesting potential bidirectional transmission. This underscores the importance of a One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Continuous surveillance and genetic studies are crucial for understanding AMDV dynamics and mitigating their impacts. Measures to reduce transmission between farmed and wild mink populations are vital for maintaining mink health and ecosystem stability. Full article

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is recognised worldwide as an important pathogen in both domestic and wild carnivores. Few data are available on its impact and spread on the wildlife/wildlife–domestic animal–environment interface. This study, aimed at developing a conservation-oriented control strategy, analysed 89 sick or deceased animals from 2019 to 2023 at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Torreferrussa. RT-PCR and sequencing of the partial H gene were used to detect and analyse CDV in tissues. The total positive percentage was 20.22% (18/89), comprising 13 red foxes (44.8%), 4 European badgers (28.6%), and 1 American mink (4.5%), while 24 Eurasian otters tested negative. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that all of the CDV strains belong to the European lineage. Geographically distant individuals and different species shared the same viral strain, suggesting a strong capacity of CDV for interspecies and long-distance transmission. This calls for further research, particularly focusing on potential impacts of CDV on endangered carnivores. Full article

The presence of bocaparvoviruses (BoVs) and bufaviruses (BuVs) in the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) was investigated by screening duodenal and liver samples collected from 183 carcasses, delivered to wildlife rescue centers located in northwestern Italy. BoV DNA was detected in 15 animals (8.2%), with prevalences of 7.1% (13/183) and 2.7% (5/183) in intestine and liver samples, respectively. Upon the sequence analyses of the NS1 gene, two highly divergent BoVs (65.5–67.8% nt identities) were identified. Fourteen strains showed the highest identity (98.3–99.4% nt) to the hedgehog BoV strains recently detected in China in Amur hedgehogs (Erinaceus amurensis), whilst four strains were genetically related (98.9–99.4% nt identities) to the porcine BoVs identified in pigs and classified in the species Bocaparvovirus ungulate 4, which included related viruses also found in rats, minks, shrews, and mice. BuV DNA was detected in the duodenal samples of two hedgehogs, with a prevalence rate of 1.1%. The nearly full-length genome of two BuV strains, Hedgehog/331DU-2022/ITA and Hedgehog/1278DU/2019/ITA, was reconstructed. Upon phylogenetic analysis based on the NS and VP aa sequences, the Italian hedgehog BuVs tightly clustered with the BuVs recently identified in the Chinese Amur hedgehogs, within a potential novel candidate species of the genus Protoparvovirus. Full article

The European mink Mustela lutreola (Mustelidae) ranks among the most endangered mammalian species globally, experiencing a rapid and severe decline in population size, density, and distribution. Given the critical need for effective conservation strategies, understanding its genomic characteristics becomes paramount. To address this challenge, the platinum-quality, chromosome-level reference genome assembly for the European mink was successfully generated under the project of the European Mink Centre consortium. Leveraging PacBio HiFi long reads, we obtained a 2586.3 Mbp genome comprising 25 scaffolds, with an N50 length of 154.1 Mbp. Through Hi-C data, we clustered and ordered the majority of the assembly (>99.9%) into 20 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including heterosomes, ranging from 6.8 to 290.1 Mbp. The newly sequenced genome displays a GC base content of 41.9%. Additionally, we successfully assembled the complete mitochondrial genome, spanning 16.6 kbp in length. The assembly achieved a BUSCO (Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs) completeness score of 98.2%. This high-quality reference genome serves as a valuable genomic resource for future population genomics studies concerning the European mink and related taxa. Furthermore, the newly assembled genome holds significant potential in addressing key conservation challenges faced by M. lutreola. Its applications encompass potential revision of management units, assessment of captive breeding impacts, resolution of phylogeographic questions, and facilitation of monitoring and evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of dedicated conservation strategies for the European mink. This species serves as an example that highlights the paramount importance of prioritizing endangered species in genome sequencing projects due to the race against time, which necessitates the comprehensive exploration and characterization of their genomic resources before their populations face extinction. Full article

The genus Sarcocystis is a group of numerous protozoan parasites having a two-host life cycle. Based on laboratory experiments and/or phylogenetic analysis results it was shown that seven Sarcocystis spp. producing sarcocsyts in bird tissues are transmitted via predatory placental mammals. To date the role of small mammals of the family Mustelidae in the distribution of avian Sarcocystis spp. have not been studied. During the current investigation, intestinal mucosa scrapings of 115 mustelids belonging to five species were tested for S. albifronsi, S. anasi, S. rileyi, and S. wenzeli infecting anseriforms and chickens. Microscopically, free sporocysts, sporulating oocysts, and loose oocysts were found in 61 samples (53.0%). Using nested PCR targeting the ITS1 region and sequencing, S. rileyi was confirmed in eight American minks, two European polecats and single European badger. Sarcocystis sp. was identified in one American mink and one European pine marten. Based on the partial ITS1 region this parasite showed that 100% identity to pathogenic Sarcocystis sp. caused a fatal infection in backyard chickens from Brazil. Phylogenetically, the Sarcocystis sp. identified in our study was most closely related to S. wenzeli parasitising domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus). Full article

Mesocarnivores are small- or mid-sized carnivore species that display a variety of ecologies and behaviours. In Europe, wild mesocarnivores are represented by the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), the golden jackal (Canis aureus), the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), the Mustelidae of the genera Meles, Martes, Mustela, Lutra, the invasive species of raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and American mink (Neogale vison). These abundant animals thrive in various habitats and often develop their activity close to human settlements. Thus, they may play an important role in the introduction, maintenance, and transmission of major parasitic zoonoses and promote bridging infections with domestic animals. Against this background, this article reports and discusses some of the most important endoparasites of wild mesocarnivores living in Europe, on the basis of their actual role as reservoirs, spreaders, or sentinels. The data derived from epizootiological studies in different European countries, and the proven or speculated implications of the detected endoparasites in human and domestic animals’ health, are discussed. Through older and recent literature review, the state-of-the-art knowledge on the occurrence and prevalence of the parasites under consideration is presented, showing further, warranted investigations and the need for surveillance and vigilance. Full article

The European mink (Mustela lutreola) is one of Europe’s most endangered species, and it is on the brink of extinction in the Iberian Peninsula. The species’ precarious situation requires the application of new ex situ conservation methodologies that complement the existing ex situ and in situ conservation measures. Here, we report for the first time the establishment of a biobank for European mink mesenchymal stem cells (emMSC) and oocytes from specimens found dead in the Iberian Peninsula, either free or in captivity. New emMSC lines were isolated from different tissues: bone marrow (emBM-MSC), oral mucosa (emOM-MSc), dermal skin (emDS-MSC), oviduct (emO-MSc), endometrium (emE-MSC), testicular (emT-MSC), and adipose tissue from two different adipose depots: subcutaneous (emSCA-MSC) and ovarian (emOA-MSC). All eight emMSC lines showed plastic adhesion, a detectable expression of characteristic markers of MSCs, and, when cultured under osteogenic and adipogenic conditions, differentiation capacity to these lineages. Additionally, we were able to keep 227 Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in the biobank, 97 of which are grade I or II. The European mink MSC and oocyte biobank will allow for the conservation of the species’ genetic variability, the application of assisted reproduction techniques, and the development of in vitro models for studying the molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases that threaten the species’ precarious situation. Full article

The impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on wildlife is largely unevaluated, and extended surveillance of animal species is needed to reach a consensus on the role of animals in the emergence and maintenance of SARS-CoV-2. This infection has been detected in farmed and domestic animals and wild animals, mainly in captivity. The interactions or shared resources with wildlife could represent a potential transmission pathway for the SARS-CoV-2 spill over to other wild species and could lead to health consequences or the establishment of new reservoirs in susceptible hosts. This study evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in European mink (Mustela lutreola) and American mink (Neogale vison) in Spain by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Spike antigen in serum samples and/or by RT-qPCR assays in oropharyngeal and rectal swabs. From January 2020 to February 2022, a total of 162 animals (127 European mink and 35 American mink) with no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection were included in the study. Antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 were not found in the serum samples analysed (n = 126), nor was the virus amplified by RT-qPCR (n = 160 swabs). Our results suggest that the potential role of wild mink and the European mink bred in captivity and released to the wild as dispersers of SARS-CoV-2 is so far low. However, wildlife surveillance for early detection of human and animal risks should be continued. In this sense, epidemiological monitoring measures, including serology and molecular analysis, are necessary. Full article

We previously showed that registration efforts and traffic intensity explain 90% of variation in mammal roadkill numbers, 70% of variation in the numbers of recorded species and 40% of diversity variation. Here we analyze semiaquatic mammal roadkill in Lithuania in 2002–2021, relating these to the monitoring effort. From 39,936 analyzed roadkill, the European beaver (Castor fiber) was registered 60 times, American mink (Neovison vison) 26 times, otter (Lutra lutra) 22 times and muskrat (Ondatra zibethica) 3 times. The average roadkill indexes were 0.000065, 0.00076, 0.00061 and 0.00010 ind./km/day, and the extrapolated annual roadkill for the country was 44–357, 36–456, 49–464 and 89–144 individuals, respectively. Beaver roadkill numbers correlated with the registration effort and traffic intensity, otter roadkill with registration effort only and mink with hunting bag (number of hunted individuals per year). Roadkill was not always related to proximity to water, with 38–54% of roadkill occurring over 200 m from the nearest water source. With American mink and muskrat being invasive species in the EU and otter protected in many countries, it is valuable to enhance the registrations of their roadkill (using targeted efforts by drivers, hunters or other citizen scientists) to obtain the extrapolated amount of roadkill and to use this knowledge in species management. Full article

Previously, we showed that registration effort and traffic intensity explain 90% of variation in roadkill numbers, 70% of variation in numbers of recorded species and 40% of diversity variation. Here we analysed the comparatively rare roadkills of semi-aquatic mammals in Lithuania, northern Europe, covering the period of 2007–2021, relating these to monitoring effort. From over 30,000 roadkills, European beaver was registered 43 times, American mink 26 times, otter 22 times and muskrat two times, with the average roadkill indexes being 0.000065, 0.00076, 0.00061 and 0.00010 ind./km/day, and the maximum indexes being 0.067, 0.028, 0.048 and 0.016 ind./km/day, respectively. These data show the roadkills are not common events. Their occurrences did not correspond to population numbers (beaver over 40,000, American mink about 8–10,000 and otter about 3–5000 individuals in 2020–2021) nor to traffic intensity. However, for all these species, registration effort (number of times the route was driven, this being 300–400 on the most investigated routes) was the main factor, with more registrations being on the small number of best-sampled main roads. As two of these species, American mink and muskrat, are invasive species in EU, while otter is protected in most of the countries, registrations of their roadkills should be enhanced (using targeted efforts by hunters or citizen scientists for example) in order to obtain a better approximation of the roadkilled numbers of these species and thus be able to use this knowledge in species management. Full article

Like most structures, the brachial plexus is subject to species variation. Analysing this structure over a wide spectrum of species, we can obtain a complex view of the changes–in a given group of animals. The aim of this study was to describe the brachial plexus anatomy of species from two families of Caniformia. We analysed the brachial plexus structure of five species from two families of Caniformia: Canidae and Mustelidae. The cadavers were obtained from breeders and hunters. All were fixed by being kept in a 10% formaldehyde solution for two weeks. This study allows us to present the similarities as well as the differences between species and families. Our study reveals different trends in the course of the individual nerves and innervations of the thoracic limb. A species-specific feature is the extent of the brachial plexus, as each species has a specific number of ventral branches of the spinal nerves in the brachial plexus. However, a characteristic of the family Mustelidae is the course of the median nerve through the epicondylar foramen. Within the Canidae, two species are characterised by a very long branch for the coracobrachialis muscle. The general conclusion is that the brachial plexus of species belonging to the Caniformia is subject to variation within families and species, as well as individual variation while maintaining a general schematic for the group. Full article