Health of Antarctic birds: a review of their parasites, pathogens and diseases

Abstract

Antarctic birds are not beyond the effects of parasites or pathogens. However, potential ecological consequences of wide-spread infections for bird populations in Antarctica have received little attention. In this paper, we review the information published about disease and parasites, and their effects on Antarctic birds. The information on host species, parasites and pathogens, and geographic regions is incomplete and data on ecological effects on the populations, including how birds respond to pathogens and parasites, are almost inexistent. We conclude that more research is needed to establish general patterns of spatial and temporal variation in pathogens and parasites, and to determine how such patterns could influence hosts. This information is crucial to limit the spread of outbreaks and may aid in the decision-making process should they occur.

Seabird ticks (Ixodes uriae) distribution along the Antarctic Peninsula

“…Information about the presence and distribution of parasite and pathogens in Antarctica is scarce and fragmented (Barbosa and Palacios 2009), and there is a need to know what is normal and aberrant in relation to factors potentially aVecting the health of Antarctic wildlife (Kerry et al 1999). To know the distribution of ticks is of great importance because they cause negative eVects on seabird populations (Chastel et al 1987;Bergström et al 1999) but also for the possibility of zoonotic transmission.…”

Identification of an avian polyomavirus associated with Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae)

“…There is extremely little information about pathogens and parasites associated with Antarctic animals (Barbosa & Palacios, 2009;Kerry & Riddle, 2009). Of all Antarctic vertebrates, the penguins are possibly the best studied.…”

Environmental Monitoring around Indian Stations

“…The analysis of data do not shows the significant change in environmental indicator (heavy metal) except the increment of iron in drinking water and presence of biological indicator, which is attributed to use of old iron pipe and seepage of treated wastewater in Zub lake during summer. Presence of E-Coli and pathogens in nearby lakes of stations indicates careful examination of anthropogenic activities, however birds also acts as vector to transport organic ingredient and dropping into lake water, which may also have been attributed presence of pathogens in lake water (Barbosa and Palacios, 2009;Grimaldi et al, 2014).…”