Work

Evidence of a highly divergent novel parvovirus in Australia's critically endangered western ground parrot/kyloring (Pezoporus flaviventris)

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Detecting pathogens in endangered animal populations is vital for understanding and mitigating threats to their survival. The critically endangered western ground parrot (Pezoporus flaviventris, WGP), with a population as low as 150 individuals in Australia, faces an imminent risk of extinction. Despite this urgency, research on viral pathogens in this species remains limited. This study aimed to identify and characterise viruses present in faecal samples from seven individual WGP using a viral metagenomic approach. Analysis of the sequenced datasets revealed the presence of a novel virus belonging to the Parvoviridae family, named psittaciform chaphamaparvovirus 7 (PsChPV-7). The genome of PsChPV-7 contains typical structural and functional gene sequences found in Parvoviridae but is highly divergent, indicating its classification as a distinct species. Phylogenetic analysis placed PsChPV-7 within a unique sub-clade of the Chaphamaparvovirus genus, suggesting its evolutionary significance as an ancient lineage within this group. These findings may contribute to the development of strategic management and biosecurity plans aimed at conserving this endangered WGP.

Source: Australian Veterinary Journal

DOI: 10.1111/avj.13378

Authors: S Sarker, N Klukowski, S Talukder, SD Gupta, R Vaughan‐Higgins

Institutions: La Trobe University, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Charles Sturt University

Language: English

Topic: Animal Virus Infections Studies

Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400

Funders: Australian Government, La Trobe University