Genetic analyses of the parasitic nematode,Parelaphostrongylus tenuis, in Missouri and Kentucky reveal unexpected levels of diversity and population differentiation

Abstract

Wildlife translocations, which involve the introduction of naive hosts into new environments with novel pathogens, invariably pose an increased risk of disease. The meningeal worm Parelaphostrongylus tenuis is a nematode parasite of the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), which serves as its primary host and rarely suffers adverse effects from infection. Attempts to restore elk (Cervus canadensis) to the eastern US have been hampered by disease caused by this parasite. Using DNA sequence data from mitochondrial and nuclear genes, we examined the hypothesis that elk translocated within the eastern US could be exposed to novel genetic variants of P. tenuis by detailing the genetic structure among P. tenuis taken from white-tailed deer and elk at a source (Kentucky) and a release site (Missouri). We found high levels of diversity at both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA in Missouri and Kentucky and a high level of differentiation between states. Our results highlight the importance of considering the potential for increased disease risk from exposure to novel strains of parasites in the decision-making process of a reintroduction or restoration.

One size does not fit all: Genetic considerations from the Missouri elk restoration

“…For example, limiting translocation of cervids is a primary recommendation to limit the spread of CWD (Gillin & Mawdsley, 2018). Additionally, the geographic variation of common disease agents is only beginning to emerge (Eggert et al, 2021) suggesting unknown consequences of mixing sources. Such concerns may thus limit the feasibility of employing a high founder, multisource translocation model for cervid restoration.…”

Intraspecific genetic diversity of the fish-infecting microsporidian parasite Pseudokabatana alburnus (Microsporidia)

“…The switch of host or infected tissue represent important driving factors for genetic differentiation, even novel speciation. Meanwhile, genetic variation of pathogens is possible associated with the virulence of pathogens which directly determine the infection consequences ( Eggert et al, 2021 ; Shaw et al, 2021 ). Therefore, insights into population genetics of some microsporidia species of economic importance will benefit for the control of microsporidiosis in aquaculture.…”