Vertical transmission of microcystins to Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) eggs

Toxicon : Official Journal of the International Society on Toxinology
Alukhethi SingoChristo J Botha

Abstract

Cyanobacteria or blue green algae are known for their extensive and highly visible blooms in eutrophic, stagnant freshwater bodies. Climate change and global warming have also contributed to a rise in toxic cyanobacterial blooms. One of the most important cyanobacteria is Microcystis aeruginosa, which can synthesize various microcystins that can affect the health of terrestrial and aquatic animals. Commercial Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) farming in South Africa is based on keeping breeders (adult males and females) in big dams on farms (captive-bred approach). Unfortunately, cyanobacterial blooms in the breeder dams are a concern to farm owners, managers and veterinarians. The main objectives of this research project were to determine if microcystins were present in the contents of crocodile eggs and the liver and yolk of dead hatchlings, and to determine if the reduced hatchability on commercial farms might be caused by these toxins. Furthermore, the concentration of microcystins in the breeder dam was monitored on a monthly basis spanning the ovulation and egg laying period. During the hatching season microcystin concentrations in unfertilised eggs, egg shell membranes and in the yolk and liver of dead hatchlings wer...Continue Reading

References

Feb 1, 2009·Environmental Microbiology Reports·Hans W Paerl, Jef Huisman

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Citations

Jul 24, 2018·Journal of the South African Veterinary Association·Christo J BothaMagda Rosemann
Sep 30, 2020·Environmental Research·Shiyu ZhangHuizhen Zhang
Jan 11, 2019·Toxicon : Official Journal of the International Society on Toxinology·Qin QiaoBenjamin Marie

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