Avian Haemosporidian Parasites in Three Wild Columbids from Germany
Birds are hosts to a diverse assemblage of vector-transmitted haemosporidian parasites. However, the true genetic diversity and many host–parasite interactions are still unknown, particularly in under-represented species groups such as wild doves and pigeons (Columbiformes). In this study, we examin...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Microorganisms |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/6/1305 |
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| Summary: | Birds are hosts to a diverse assemblage of vector-transmitted haemosporidian parasites. However, the true genetic diversity and many host–parasite interactions are still unknown, particularly in under-represented species groups such as wild doves and pigeons (Columbiformes). In this study, we examined the prevalence and lineage diversity of haemosporidian genera <i>Plasmodium</i>, <i>Leucocytozoon</i>, and <i>Haemoproteus</i> in three species of wild columbids, sampled in Germany. Examinations were performed by applying molecular methods (nested PCR and one-step multiplex PCR) and blood smear examination, and their respective advantages and disadvantages are discussed. In the case of the European Turtle Dove <i>Streptopelia turtur</i>, samples were collected along a west–east gradient throughout Germany, covering migratory birds from the Western and Central-Eastern flyway of this species. Although no infection was detected in the Stock Dove <i>Columba oenas</i> samples, 53% of Turtle Dove and 86% of Common Woodpigeon <i>Columba palumbus</i> harbored a parasite of at least one haemosporidian genus, revealing previously unknown lineage–host interactions. We were not able to demonstrate a correlation between infection status (presence or absence of infection based on PCR results) and parasitemia with condition based on the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (H/L ratio). Neither lineage occurrence nor prevalence of infection followed any geographically specific patterns. Thus, haemosporidian lineages found in Turtle Doves could not be used as a marker of geographic origin that would allow the tracking of their nonbreeding distribution. |
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| ISSN: | 2076-2607 |