Search Results (19)

The nutria or coypu (Myocastor coypus M.) is endemic to South America. However, this species invaded Central Europe in the 19th century. The rapid spread of the invasive nutria across Central Europe triggered countless ecological conflicts with the local species. In the current research, we surveyed two populations in Slovakia and compared the reproductive performance of this species to its reproductive performance in other countries, where it is native. A total of 69 nutria were harvested from the wild in 2022–2024. The result of the postmortem analysis reveals no intersexual differences in the body weight and length. A visual inspection of the uterus among 25 female specimens confirmed that 16 (64%) were pregnant, including 3 individuals with the body size characteristics of young nutrias. The pregnancy rate was estimated at 90% (9 out of 10) in spring and 47% (7 out of 15) in autumn. The average number of embryos per individual was 6.94 ± 2.22 for all females, and it was 6.27 ± 2.05 in spring and 8.8 ± 1.64 in autumn, with no significant difference between seasons (p > 0.05). No clear relationship between the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the fertility of females, i.e., the number of embryos, was observed. Our results highlight the crucial need to raise public awareness about the invasive characteristics of the species and contribute to the establishment of an effective intervention techniques, including the establishment of the necessary legal framework for eradicating emerging populations across Central European habitats. Full article

West Nile fever is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease caused by West Nile virus (WNV), maintained in an enzootic cycle between avian hosts and Culex mosquitoes. While birds are the principal reservoirs, WNV also infects a wide range of mammals, including humans, horses, and wildlife species. In this study, we assessed WNV seroprevalence in wild ungulates, wild boars, golden jackals, and the invasive rodent nutria in Serbia. A total of 522 serum samples from wild animals were tested. Antibodies against WNV were detected across all tested species, with seroprevalence rates of 37% in wild boars, 11.9% in nutrias, 32.4% in golden jackals, 50.6% in red deer, and 9.1% in roe deer. Detection of antibodies in both adults and juveniles provides evidence of recent transmission during the study period. These findings confirm widespread circulation of WNV in Serbian wildlife and suggest that wild ungulates, carnivores, and invasive rodents may serve as useful sentinel species for monitoring WNV prevalence and geographic spread in natural ecosystems. Full article

The coypu (Myocastor coypus), a semi-aquatic rodent native to South America, has established invasive populations across North America, Asia, and Europe. In Greece, since its initial recording in 1965, the species has been rapidly expanding, forming sizable populations in northern continental regions. However, the extent of its invasion and the environmental drivers shaping its distribution and spatial patterns in western–central Greece remain poorly understood. Here, we address this knowledge gap, aiming to identify and map new coypu records, investigate the relationship between coypu presence and habitat characteristics, and analyze its spatial distribution. Between 2020 and 2023, we conducted 50 field surveys across the study area, documenting direct and indirect evidence of coypu presence. We integrated kernel density estimation, Getis-Ord Gi*, and Anselin local Moran’s I to identify spatial distribution patterns and hotspots of the coypu. Additionally, we analyzed environmental factors including land cover type, total productivity, and geomorphological features to determine their influence on habitat selection. Our findings reveal significant spatial clustering of coypus, with 12 identified hotspots primarily located in protected areas, and highlight tree cover density and productivity variability as key predictors of coypu presence. The suitability of western–central Greece for the coypu appears to be driven by extensive wetlands and interconnected hydrological systems, with hotspots concentrated in lowland agricultural landscapes, providing essential data to guide targeted management strategies for mitigating the ecological risks posed by this invasive species. Full article

The absence of standardized reference values for wild rodent species underscores the need for comprehensive hematological and biochemical profiles. This study established robust reference intervals (RIs) for Myocastor coypus raised in captivity, analyzing 30 nutrias (10 males, 10 females, and 10 juveniles) at a private farm in northeastern Romania. Leukocyte (WBC) counts averaged 11.85 (10³/µL) in males, 10.51 (10³/µL) in females, and 11.63 (10³/µL) in juveniles, indicating a consistent immune response. Hemoglobin was 11.81 g/dL in males, 11.97 g/dL in females, and 15.42 g/dL in juveniles, with hematocrit levels around 45%. Juveniles displayed higher MCH (38.59 pg) and MCHC (38.58 g/dL), reflecting growth-related adaptations. Platelet counts were lower in adults. Biochemical findings showed lower cholesterol (14.89 mg/dL) and higher glucose (236.26 mg/dL) in juveniles, indicating intense energy metabolism. Total proteins were significantly elevated in juveniles (33.17 g/dL). Creatinine and uric acid levels were higher in adults, although calcium exceeded reference ranges in males (12.04 mg/dL). Hepatic enzyme ALT was higher in males. These findings establish baseline health parameters for captive nutrias, aiding in monitoring and improving rearing practices. Full article

Invasive alien species frequently encounter limited natural predation pressure in their non-native ranges, which can contribute significantly to their unchecked proliferation and adverse ecological impacts. Here, we document a novel instance of a livestock guardian dog preying upon an adult coypu (Myocastor coypus) in Lake Kerkini, Greece—a significant observation given the coypu’s status as a prominent invasive species with few natural predators in Europe. The coypu’s presence in the region, coupled with the absence of effective predation among others, has allowed it to establish a robust population and exert considerable pressure on local ecosystems. This novel observation not only highlights an unusual predator–prey interaction involving a domestic mammal traditionally used for livestock management but also provides insights into understanding how domestic animals might inadvertently influence the dynamics of invasive species, potentially serving as a complementary tool in conservation management. By demonstrating that domestic dogs could play a role in controlling invasive species populations, our findings introduce a previously unconsidered aspect of invasive species management with conservation implications. Full article

Myocastor coypus is a pest animal present in Africa, Europe, North America and Asia that causes agricultural and ecological damages. Moreover, it has to be considered as a potential risk for public health. Forty-four coypus from the “Parco Naturale La Mandria” (Piedmont region, Northwest Italy) have been analysed. A complete necropsy and a whole histological evaluation of the liver, kidney and lung have been carried out on all the animals. Moreover, the positivity to Hepatitis E Virus (HEV), Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), Francisella spp., Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum have been investigated. None of the animal were positive for HEV, EMCV, Francisella spp. or Neospora caninum. Two animals tested positive for Toxoplasma gondii. A high presence of histological lesions has been identified in different organs, suggesting that lesions could be induced by different pathogens. As previously reported, coypu can act as a host for several pathogens, including important agents for human and animal health, and surveillance is necessary to fully understand the biological role and the importance of coypu as a disease reservoir in our country. Full article

Nutria (Myocastor coypus) are semi-aquatic rodents that were introduced in South Korea for commercial farming but significantly damaged aquatic ecosystems. Understanding nutria ecological behavior is essential for developing effective control and eradication strategies to mitigate their impacts. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the home range and activity patterns of 24 nutria (12 males and 12 females) in the Macdo wetland in South Korea from 2015–2016 through radio tracking. The average minimum convex polygon home range of the nutria was 0.29 ± 0.55 km², with a 95% kernel density estimation (KDE) home range of 0.43 ± 0.85 km² and a 50% KDE home range of 0.05 ± 1.1 km². The home range of males was larger than that of females; however, the winter home range of females was as large as that of males. The home range also varied seasonally, with the smallest observed in winter. The nutria showed crepuscular and nocturnal activity patterns throughout the year, with no significant difference between sexes. The activities in spring, summer, and autumn showed no significant differences, but the activity in winter was significantly different from that in the other seasons. This study may serve as a basis for developing appropriately timed and scaled management strategies to mitigate the impacts of nutria on ecosystems. In conclusion, several environmental and biological factors contribute to the behavior of nutria in South Korea. Full article

Nutria (or coypu, Myocastor coypus), is a semi-aquatic rodent that is native to South America and has been introduced almost all over the world since the end of the 19th century. In Europe, this rodent is considered an invasive species. In this report, we analyzed nutria fecal samples in a small coastal wetland of Central Italy, using different techniques (fresh smear, direct immunofluorescence, Baermann technique, flotation, ethyl acetate sedimentation) to obtain an arrangement of eukaryote endoparasites (Protozoa and Helminths) and compare them with data available in the literature for both Italy and worldwide. We recorded five taxa, with a dominant occurrence (>70%) of nematodes of the genus Strongyloides. Moreover, we reported for the first time in nutria a bronchopulmonary strongyle nematode (Muellerius vel. Angiostrongylus) and, for the first time in Italy, protozoans of the genus Cryptosporidium. Since nutria co-occurs with humans and domestic animals in the study area, we highlighted possible sanitary and management implications. Full article

The nutria (Myocastor coypus), an invasive alien species, is widely spread in Europe. Pursuant to regulation (EU) no. 1143/2014, the nutria is subject to management programs to reduce its spread. Surgical fertility control is considered an acceptable method, particularly in urban circumstances, avoiding euthanasia. To maintain the hormonal patterns and the social and behavioral dynamics, surgical infertilization preserving the gonads (i.e., salpingectomy and vasectomy) is recommended. Mini-invasive surgery is an eligible choice when dealing with wildlife, allowing reduced captivation time. For these reasons, 77 free-ranging nutrias, captured in urban nuclei in Italy, underwent infertilization under general anesthesia; laparoscopic salpingectomy and vasectomy were performed on 32 animals and traditional surgery on the remainder, leaving the gonads in place. A three-port technique was used, with two paramedian trocars (5 mm) for the instruments and a median one for the telescope. Ablation was obtained through Onemytis^® plasma device, allowing a rapid surgical time with no need to place visceral sutures; the skin was surgically closed. After recovery, the animals were released, and no overt complications were noted. No modification of the behavioral patterns was noted, and the population decreased during the following months. Full article

Climate and land use change can affect biodiversity in different ways, e.g., determining habitat loss, altering reproduction periods or disrupting biotic interactions. Here, we investigate the effects of climate and land use change on the spatial distribution of two semi-aquatic mammals, the Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) and the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra). We first modeled the current potential distribution of the desman and the otter in the Iberian Peninsula, considering topographic, climatic and land use variables. Second, we predicted their potential distribution in 2050 under climate and land use change scenarios. We calculated the percentage of range gain/loss and shift predicted for the two species under such scenarios and quantified the present and future spatial overlap between the two species distribution. Irrespective of the scenario, desman models show loss of suitable habitat, whereas the otter will undergo an opposite trend. Aside from a preponderant habitat loss, the desman is predicted to increase its spatial overlap with otter range under the optimistic scenarios, potentially meaning it will face an exacerbated predation by otters. The potential increase of both habitat loss and otters’ predation might represent a major threat for the desman, which may affect the long-term persistence of this endemic species in the Iberian Peninsula. Full article

Earth dams and levees often offer an attractive habitat for burrowing animals such as porcupines, nutria, badgers, etc. However, their activity may damage the earth structure, potentially leading to catastrophic failures. If the burrow system connects the waterside and the landside, water flows through the pipe and it can start concentrated erosion. This paper shows that the conditions to trigger concentrated erosion can be generated by a local instability mechanism of the landside slope in which the soil cover between the cavity and the surface is expulsed due to increasing water pressure. A simplified model based on the limit equilibrium method is proposed and compared with bi-dimensional and three-dimensional finite element analyses. This mechanism can better explain real failure cases. The results provide useful suggestions for the assessment of levee vulnerability to animal burrows and for the management of water retaining structures. Full article

A total of 249 serum samples from 13 wild animal species namely fallow deer (Dama dama, n = 1), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus, n = 80), red deer (Cervus elaphus, n = 22), chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra, n = 21), mouflon (Ovis musimon, n = 4), brown hare (Lepus europaeus, n = 2), nutria (Myocastor coypus, n = 1), red fox (Vulpes vulpes, n = 97), stone marten (Martes foina, n = 12), European badger (Meles meles, n = 2), golden jackal (Canis aureus, n = 2) Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx, n = 2) and grey wolf (Canis lupus, n = 3) were analysed for the presence of antibodies against Leptospira interrogans sensu stricto. Serum samples were examined via the microscopic agglutination test for the presence of specific antibodies against Leptospira serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae, Bratislava, Pomona, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Sejroe, Australis, Autumnalis, Canicola, Saxkoebing and Tarassovi. Antibodies to at least one of the pathogenic serovars were detected in 77 (30.9%; CI = 25–37%) sera. The proportion of positive samples varied intraspecifically and was the biggest in large carnivores (lynx, wolf and jackal; 86%), followed by mezzo predators: stone marten (67%) and red fox (34%), and large herbivores: red deer (32%), roe deer (25%), alpine chamois (10%) and mouflon (0%). Out of the 77 positive samples, 42 samples (53.8%) had positive titres against a single serovar, while 35 (45.4%) samples had positive titres against two or more serovars. The most frequently detected antibodies were those against the serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae. The present study confirmed the presence of multiple pathogenic serovars in wildlife throughout Slovenia. It can be concluded that wild animals are reservoirs for at least some of the leptospiral serovars and are a potential source of leptospirosis for other wild and domestic animals, as well as for humans. Full article

Calcium deficiency during child growth leads to osteoporosis in later stages of life. Finger millet is one of the calcium dense foods, with three times the level of calcium than milk, and the only cereal that contains high calcium content which is consistent across different varieties (364 ± 58 mg/100 g). Thus, finger millet has potential for addressing calcium deficiency naturally. This study aimed to determine the retention and impact of finger millet calcium on bone turnover through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Three human studies were eligible for systematic review. Of these, only two were eligible for meta-analysis to assess the retention of calcium in children of 9 to 12 years. One study on bone turnover markers was not used in the meta-analysis as at least two studies are required to conduct meta-analysis. Due to the lack of complete data only four studies were eligible for meta-analysis to assess the in vitro bioavailability of calcium from unprocessed and a range of different types of processed finger millet. The result shows that there was significant retention (p < 0.05) of 23.4 ± 2.9% calcium from finger-millet-based diet which could help bone accretion during child growth if finger-millet-based diet is consumed. The bone turnover marker study shows that the resorption of calcium reduced by 28% and 47% among peri and post-menopausal women respectively after feeding the nutria mixed grain ball. However, there is no significant change in bone formation marker. Depending on the type of processing, calcium bioavailability either increased or decreased. One in vitro study showed that calcium bioavailability from finger millet was 28.6% when boiled, whereas three studies on processing show that certain processing can double the calcium bioavailability to 61.4%. Irrespective of the type of processing, finger millets contribute to high calcium retention and extremely high bioavailable calcium and could be useful for healthy growth and in dealing with complications related to calcium deficiency. Full article

Nutrias (Myocastor coypus) were imported to South Korea for farming in 1985; individuals escaped captivity and established wild populations in natural ecosystems in the late 1990s. Numerous studies have focused on their monitoring and management; however, information on the continuous movement of individuals is not available. In this study, telemetry data from field conditions were used to identify the nearest-neighbor distances of individuals in association with environmental factors, including plant type, land cover, and biological parameters. The minimum nearest-neighbor distances for the different sexes were, overall, according to the minimum distances for the same sex. Local co-occurrences of individuals, either of the same or different sex, were seasonal. Tall grasslands, followed by herbaceous vegetation, were associated with the co-occurrence of different sexes. Conversely, floating-leaved hydrophytes, followed by xeric herbaceous vegetation, were correlated with the co-occurrence of the same sex. Local female–male co-occurrences were negatively associated with male–male co-occurrences but not with female–female co-occurrences, suggesting male dominance in group formations. Movement and co-occurrence information extracted using Geo-self-organizing maps furthers our understanding of population dispersal and helps formulate management strategies for nutria populations. Full article

Cryptosporidium spp., common parasites of vertebrates, remain poorly studied in wildlife. This study describes the novel Cryptosporidium species adapted to nutrias (Myocastor coypus). A total of 150 faecal samples of feral nutria were collected from locations in the Czech Republic and Slovakia and examined for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and specific DNA at the SSU, actin, HSP70, and gp60 loci. Molecular analyses revealed the presence of C. parvum (n = 1), C. ubiquitum subtype family XIId (n = 5) and Cryptosporidium myocastoris n. sp. XXIIa (n = 2), and XXIIb (n = 3). Only nutrias positive for C. myocastoris shed microscopically detectable oocysts, which measured 4.8–5.2 × 4.7–5.0 µm, and oocysts were infectious for experimentally infected nutrias with a prepatent period of 5–6 days, although not for mice, gerbils, or chickens. The infection was localised in jejunum and ileum without observable macroscopic changes. The microvilli adjacent to attached stages responded by elongating. Clinical signs were not observed in naturally or experimentally infected nutrias. Phylogenetic analyses at SSU, actin, and HSP70 loci demonstrated that C. myocastoris n. sp. is distinct from other valid Cryptosporidium species. Full article