Work

Trouble in the Tank: A Case Report of Fatal Scuticociliate Encephalitis in a Whitetip Reef Shark ( Triaenodon obesus )

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This case report presents a recent case of scuticociliatosis in a whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), housed at a zoo (Haus des Meeres Aqua Terra Zoo, Vienna, Austria). Clinical signs such as uncoordinated swimming and body tilt were observed prior to death. Postmortem examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed significant brain lesions consistent with granulomatous or necrotising encephalitis. Histopathology and molecular diagnostics confirmed the presence of the scuticociliate Miamiensis avidus and/or Philasterides dicentrarchi in the brain, with extensive tissue invasion. This case underscores the pathogenicity of scuticociliates in elasmobranchs, highlighting the need for effective management practices in aquaria to prevent or mitigate such infections. In this study, we present the first documented infection with scuticociliates in the whitetip reef shark.

Source: Journal of Fish Diseases

DOI: 10.1111/jfd.70046

Authors: Hella Schwegler, Jeff Schreiner, Maria Prüllage, Karoline Lipnik, Astrid S. Holzer, Eva Lewisch

Institutions: University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, EcoAustria Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Schönbrunner Tiergarten-GmbH

Language: English

Topic: Aquaculture disease management and microbiota

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Life below water

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,450