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OBJECTIVE: To determine the optimal protocol for acquisition of CT images of the dentition in alpacas. ANIMALS: 3 healthy adult male alpacas. PROCEDURES: Each alpaca was anesthetized with an IM injection of a combination of ketamine, xylazine, and butorphanol and positioned in sternal recumbency on the CT couch with its legs folded in a natural cush position and its head positioned within the isocenter of the gantry of a 64-slice CT scanner. Images were acquired by means of 6 protocols (sequential and helical modes at slice thicknesses of 1.25, 2.5, and 5 mm). Five images (2 molar, 2 premolar, and mandibular incisor teeth) were selected from each protocol for evaluation by 3 veterinary radiologists. For each image, tooth root visibility and sharpness and image noise artifact were subjectively evaluated on a 3-point scoring system. RESULTS: Slice thickness significantly affected tooth root visibility and tooth root sharpness but did not affect image noise artifact. Acquisition mode significantly affected tooth root visibility and tooth root sharpness as well as image noise artifact. Tooth root visibility and sharpness did not differ significantly between the helical and sequential images when the slice thickness was 1.25 mm. Image noise artifact was greater for helical images than sequential images but did not differ by slice thickness within either acquisition mode. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results indicated that for a 64-slice CT scanner, the optimal protocol for the acquisition of CT images of the dentition in alpacas was a sequential scan with a slice thickness of 1.25 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adult male Llamas ( Lama glama ) ( n = 6) were collected using a receptive female and a thermo-electric artificial vagina assembled with a polyethylene collection bag with the following objectives: (a) to develop a reliable and repeatable semen collection technique for Llama, (b) validate semen evaluation tests for Llama, and (c) to determine the effect of collection frequency and season on Llama semen characteristics. First, the semen and sperm variables were recorded and validated through their own repeatability. Semen collection intervals tested were: 1X/week for three weeks and 3X/week for another three weeks, the second collection period occurring after two weeks of sexual rest. The collection frequency of 3X/week significantly reduced ( P < 0.05) the sperm viability, motility, concentration, Total Sperm/Ejaculate, Total Motile Sperm/Ejaculate and Total Live Sperm/Ejaculate, but improved Total Sperm/Week and Total Live Sperm/Week. All recorded variables were significantly higher during the summer in comparison to the spring with the exception of morphology abnormalities, volume, and viability. Also, the 1X/week versus the 3X/week semen collection frequencies did not produce a significant difference in the percent of total motile sperm/week. Based on semen and sperm characteristics evaluated herein, Llama semen collected in the summer was better ( P < 0.05), with regard to the majority of the variables analyzed, than semen collected in the spring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on the estimated density and population size of Lama guanicoe guanacos over major environmental gradients of Santa Cruz in southern Patagonia. Topics covered include the use of road surveys and distance sampling, spatial variation in density, and high guanaco abundance in arid lands. Also mentioned are the benefits of sustainable use of guanaco populations including rural areas' socioeconomic progress and the eventual restoration of shrub-steppes.

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: Wire fences are widely used in rangelands around the world and may have a negative impact on wildlife that varies among species and habitats. The guanaco (Lama guanicoe) is the largest Patagonian ungulate and though entanglement in wire fences is frequently reported, its impact on guanaco populations has not been previously evaluated. We estimated annual mortality rate of wild guanacos due to entanglement in wire fences and evaluated whether the frequency of entanglement was age-dependent in the two wire-fence designs traditionally used in Patagonian sheep ranches. We found that annual yearling mortality on fences (5.53%) was higher than adult mortality (0.84%) and was more frequent in ovine (93cm high) than bovine (113cm) fences. Most guanacos died entangled by their legs in the highest wire when trying to jump over the fence. Our results suggest that guanacos are more likely to die due to fence entanglement than ungulates studied in other regions. Indirect effects of wire fences should also be considered as they may act as semi-permeable barriers for guanaco populations. We suggest removal of unnecessary wire fences and replacement by guanaco-friendly fences, like high-tensile electric fences that may reduce mortality and barrier-effect on guanaco populations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dicrocoelium dendriticum plays an important role in New World Camelids as infected animals may suffer from severe clinical symptoms even leading to death of the animals. Intra vitam diagnosis may be difficult as clinical signs are atypical and Dicrocoelium eggs are shed only intermittently in faeces. The aim of this paper is to present four clinical cases of dicrocoeliosis in lamas as well as three asymptomatic infected animals to support the veterinarian in practice to diagnose infections. Furthermore, it is the first time that ultrasonographic examinations are described in this context. All seven lamas had been admitted to the Clinic for Ruminants at the University for Veterinary Medicine in Vienna. None of the animals had a history of D. dendriticum infection. The ultrasonographic examination of the liver revealed in all diseased animals as well as in two asymptomatic lamas hyperechoic areas representing calcified bile ducts typical for an infection with liver flukes. These findings together with blood examination of liver enzymes and parasitological examination may lead to the intra vitam diagnosis of dicrocoeliosis in lamas and alpacas. With an early diagnosis, the therapy of Dicrocoelium spp. could become more effective and the number of animals rescued may be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the methanogenic archaeal populations in the foregut of alpacas. In the study, five male alpacas, fed a mixture of timothy, clover and rye supplemented with fresh fruits, and maintained under normal conditions at the Hespe Garden Ranch and Rescue, Washington. Library clones were grouped into operational taxonomic units (OTU), based on a 98% sequence identity cutoff.

Objective--To determine the pharmacokinetics after oral administration of a single dose of ponazuril to healthy llamas. Animals--6 healthy adult llamas. Procedures--Ponazuril (20 mg/kg) was administered once orally to 6 llamas (day 0). Blood samples were obtained on days 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, and 49. Serum ponazuril concentrations were determined by use of a validated reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography assay with UV absorbance detection. Pharmaco-kinetic parameters were derived by use of a standard noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Results--Mean ± SD area under the serum concentration-time curve was 7,516 ± 2,750 h⋅mg/L, maximum serum ponazuril concentration was 23.6 ± 6.0 mg/L, and the elimination half-life was 135.5 ± 16.7 hours. Serum concentration of ponazuril peaked at 84 hours (range, 48 to 120 hours) after administration and gradually decreased but remained detectable for up to 35 days after administration. No adverse effects were observed during the study period. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--The rate and extent of absorption following oral administration of a single dose of ponazuril were sufficient to result in potentially effective concentrations, and the drug was tolerated well by llamas. At this dose, ponazuril resulted in serum concentrations that were high enough to be effective against various Apicomplexans on the basis of data for other species. The effective ponazuril concentration that will induce 50% inhibition of parasite growth for Eimeria macusaniensis in camelids is currently unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective-To compare the effects of hetastarch and lactated Ringers solution (LRS) on plasma colloid osmotic pressure (pCOP) and other hematologic variables in healthy llamas. Design-Prospective crossover study. Animals-6 healthy female llamas. Procedures-Llamas were administered LRS (45 mL/kg [20.5 mL/b]l and, after a 3-day washout period, hetastarch 115 mL/kg [6.8 mL/lb]) during 60-minute IV infusions. Serum total protein, serum albumin, and hemoglobin concentrations and Hct were measured before each infusion (baseline), immediately after each infusion was completed (0 hours), and at 2, 4, 8, and 12 hours. The pCOP was measured at baseline and at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours after each infusion was completed; additional measurements of pCOP were obtained 72 and 96 hours after hetastarch infusion. Results-Hetastarch administration significantly increased mean ± SEM pCOP from 23.5 ± 0.3 mm Hg (baseline) to a peak of 28.4 ± 0.6 mm Hg (12 hours); significant increases in pCOP persisted at 96 hours after hetastarch administration. Administration of LRS significantly decreased albumin and total protein concentrations; in addition, mean ± SEM pCOP decreased from 24.1 ± 0.4 mm Hg (baseline) to 18.0 ± 0.3 mm Hg (0 hours). Hetastarch administration caused more pronounced decreases in Hct (0 hours) and concentrations of hemoglobin (0 hours), albumin (all time points), and total protein (all time points) than did LAS administration. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Hetastarch administration increased pCOP in healthy llamas for 96 hours with no clinically important complications. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2011;238:768-772) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective--To study the effect of the reproductive state of female alpacas (ie, maiden [never bred before), barren [bred but failed to conceive or maintain pregnancy in previous breeding season], or gave birth and currently lactating) on embryonic mortality rate. Animals--167 female alpacas (54 lactating, 44 barren, and 69 maiden) that ovulated following a single breeding. Procedures--During the first 45 days following breeding, female alpacas underwent periodic transrectal ultrasonography to determine the presence or absence of an embryonic vesicle. Serum progesterone concentrations were determined during the same period. Embryonic survival rate was analyzed for each group of females (lactating, barren, and maiden). Results--The presence of an embryonic vesicle or embryo was positively associated with high serum progesterone concentrations (> 2 ng/mL). The embryonic mortality rate in barren females (21/44 [47.7%]) was significantly higher than in maiden (20/69 [29.0%[) and lactating (16/54 [29.6%]) females. In females that underwent embryonic loss (n = 57), 3 patterns of events in terms of serum progesterone concentrations were identified: concomitant decrease of serum progesterone concentration and embryonic loss (24/57 [42.1%]), decrease in serum progesterone concentration before embryonic loss (12/57 [21.1%]), and persistent serum progesterone concentrations beyond embryonic loss (21/57 [36.8%]). Patterns of serum progesterone concentration and embryonic loss did not differ significantly among lactating, barren, and maiden female alpacas. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Embryonic loss in alpacas occurred without any discernible pattern in serum progesterone concentrations. Barren female alpacas had the highest embryonic mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the case of an 8-year-old female Huacaya Alpaca who was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Physical condition of the patient upon admission to the teaching hospital include signs of weakness, anorexia and hypothermia. Mentioned biochemical abnormalities included hyperglycemia, hypokalemia and hypochloremia. The differential diagnosis of DCM is discussed.

The article discusses a research study about the extinction of the Camelidae genera Lama (Vicugna) gracilis in South America, particularly in the low plains of Argentina and Uruguay. A previous study suggests the relation of the distribution of L. vicugna to that of microthermal grammineae groups. Record shows that an unfavorable competence with the subgenus Lama guanicoe in the exploitation on similar niches was the caused of the extinction of L. gracilis. Analysis reveal that both guanacos and vicuña feed on the same food resources and that competition may be the outcome of shared scarce resources. The reduced populations of L. gracilis leading to its extinction is also attributed to the pressure of hunting by paleoindian groups.

The article offers information about wild guanacos (Lama guanicoe) including its social structure, density, and management in southern Neuquén Province, Argentina. It notes that guanacos are the most abundant wild South American ungulate. However, it mentions that its number has been declining in the last century. It adds that wildlife agencies are encouraging live-shearing of wild guanacos to help conserve its population. It reveals that population density between winter 2004 and summer 2005 was the same in both seasons but the male group declined during spring. It states that foraging was the most common activity in both seasons.

The aim of this study was to determine if any correlation exists between melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) polymorphisms and skin and fibre colour in alpacas. Primers capable of amplifying the entire alpaca MC1R gene were designed from a comparative alignment of Bos taurus and Mus musculus MC1R gene sequences. The complete MC1R gene of 41 alpacas exhibiting a range of fibre colours, and which were sourced from farms across Australia, was sequenced from PCR products. Twenty-one single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified within MC1R. Two of these polymorphisms (A82G and C901T) have the potential to reduce eumelanin production by disrupting the activity of MC1R. No agreement was observed between fibre colour alone and MC1R genotype in the 41 animals in this study. However, when the animals were assigned to groups based on the presence or absence of eumelanin in their fibre and skin, only animals that had at least one allele with the A82/C901 combination expressed eumelanin. We propose that A82/C901 is the wild-type dominant 'E' MC1R allele, while alpacas with either G82/T901 or G82/Y901 are homozygous for the recessive 'e' MC1R allele and are therefore unable to produce eumelanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic sequences highly related to Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) were detected in fecal samples from Peruvian 1–3 week old alpaca crias located on six farms in Puno department, some of which shared pastures with cattle. A total of 60 samples were screened for coronavirus using a nested PCR amplification of a fragment of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene. Sequences from 11 positive samples were highly similar to the Kakegawa, Quebec and Mebus BCoV strains (99.5–100.0%) and 99.2% identical to an alpaca Coronavirus (CoV) previously detected in the USA. The detection of genetic sequences related to BCoV from Peruvian alpaca crias suggests possible role of this virus on enteric disorders etiology in the High Andes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulins from animals of the Camelidae family boast unique forms that do not incorporate light chains. Antigen binding in these unconventional heavy-chain homodimers is mediated through a single variable domain. When expressed recombinantly these variable domains are termed single domain antibodies (sdAb) and are among the smallest naturally IgG-derived antigen binding units. SdAb possess good solubility, thermostability, and can refold after heat and chemical denaturation making them promising alternative recognition elements. We have constructed a library of phage-displayed sdAb from a llama immunized with a cocktail of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) complex toxoids and panned the library for binders for BoNTA complex toxoid. Six unique binders were isolated and found to specifically bind BoNT A complex in toxoid and untoxoided forms and when used in optimal combinations in buffer and milk could detect 100 pg/mL untoxoided complex. All sdAb retained their ability to specifically bind target after heating to 85 °C for 1 h, in contrast to conventional polyclonal sera. All of the sdAb were highly specific for subtype Al rather than A2 and demonstrated binding to the 33 kDa hemagglutinin, potentially to a somewhat overlapping linear epitope. The unique properties of these sdAb may provide advantages for many diagnostic applications where long-term storage and in-line monitoring require very rugged yet highly specific recognition elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace sequences from the 2X alpaca genome sequencing effort were examined to identify simple sequence repeats (microsatellites) for genetic studies. A total of 6,685 repeat-containing sequences were downloaded from GenBank, processed, and assembled into contigs representing an estimated 4,278 distinct sequences. This sequence set contained 2,290 sequences of length > 100 nucleotides that contained microsatellites of length ≥ 14 dinucleotide or 10 trinucleotide repeats with purity equal to 100%. An additional 13 sequences contained a GC microsatellite of length ≥ 12 repeats (purity = 100%) were also obtained. Primer pairs for amplification of 1,516 putative loci are presented. Amplification of genomic DNA from alpaca and llama by PCR was demonstrated for 14 primer sets including one from each of the microsatellite repeat types. Comparative chromosomal location for the alpaca markers was predicted in the bovine genome by BLAT searches against assembly 4.0 of the bovine whole genome sequence. A total of 634 markers (41.8%) returned BLAT hits with score > 100 and Identity > 85%, with the majority assignable to unique locations. We show that microsatellites are abundant and easily identified within the alpaca genome sequence. These markers will provide a valuable resource for further genetic studies of the alpaca and related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bodyweight (Bw), thoracic circumference, length and height of ii llamas were recorded weekly from birth for 27 weeks. Their mean (sd) birth weight was 11.60 (2.35) kg and their weight increased in curvilinear fashion reaching 61.05 (13.75) kg after 27 weeks. Their average daily gains reached the highest value three weeks after birth and then decreased, reaching the lowest value of 262 g per day at 27 weeks. On a metabolic Bw0.83 basis, the growth of the llamas when their dams were at peak lactation was comparable with that of calves, fawns and lambs. All the measurements were significantly affected by the age, but not by the sex of the young or the parity of the dam. The regression models chosen to predict the bodyweight and weight gain of the llamas yielded R² ranging from 0.97 to 0.99. Correlations between bodyweight and other single body measurements were between r=0.68 and 0.77. Single or combined body measurements were good predictors of bodyweight, but additional body measurements added little to the already good fit provided by a single measurement (R² ranging from 0.93 to 0.98). The thoracic circumference (R²=0.98) and length (R²=0.96) were good predictors of the bodyweight of the llamas between birth and 27 weeks old. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case Description—A 13-year-old llama was examined because of lethargy, inappetence, and syncope. Clinical Findings—Physical examination revealed muffled heart and lung sounds and peripheral edema. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included lymphopenia, hyperglycemia, prerenal azotemia, mild hyponatremia, mild hypoalbuminemia, and high γ-glutamyltransferase and creatine kinase activities. On ultrasonography, the liver appeared hyperechoic and ascites and pleural effusion were seen. Echocardiography revealed severe dilatation of the right atrium, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery; severe tricuspid regurgitation; and high right ventricular systolic pressure consistent with right-sided heart failure secondary to pulmonary hypertension. Treatment and Outcome—Treatment with furosemide was attempted, but because of failing health, the llama was euthanized 4 weeks later. Macronodular cirrhosis of the liver, glomerulonephritis, and intimal fibrosis and medial hypertrophy of muscular pulmonary arteries were seen on histologic examination of postmortem specimens. Clinical Relevance—Findings in this case were similar to those reported for human patients with portopulmonary hypertension secondary to hepatic cirrhosis. Pulmonary hypertension secondary to hepatic disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of right-sided heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The members of the two leading British camelid breeders associations were surveyed by means of a postal questionnaire between December 2000 and January 2001; 696 questionnaires were posted and 218 usable responses were returned. A total of 3520 camelids were recorded, of which 2719 (77.2 per cent) were alpacas (Lama pacos) and 726 (20.6 per cent) were llamas (Lama glama). Ninety-four per cent of the camelid herds were of one species, and 70 per cent of the animals were kept for more than one purpose. Camelids imported from South America were present on 45 per cent of the units surveyed. Husbandry procedures and preventive health measures were uniform; 92.2 per cent of the animals were kept on pasture all year round, 99 per cent were supplemented with hay and 97.7 per cent with concentrate feed; 88.1 per cent were vaccinated against clostridial disease with a multivalent vaccine licensed for sheep, and 96.3 per cent were treated periodically with anthelmintic drugs. During 2000, ill health, other than dermatological conditions, was reported by 24.3 of respondents, and 32 different conditions were described. Skin disease was reported by 51 per cent of breeders. Zinc deficiency was diagnosed presumptively as the cause of skin disease by 31.9 per cent of the respondents, and ectoparasitism by 26.4 per cent Of those who treated a skin condition, 71.9 per cent reported an improvement, but less than half of them considered the improvement to have been permanent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 1. Guarded hot plate technique was used to measure thermal conductance of winter, summer and sheared pelts of Lama guanicoe. 2. Mean thermal conductance of winter and summer pelage was 1.64W/m2 °C and 1.79W/m2 °C, respectively. 3. Mean heat loss in natural pelage, in free convection conditions was 1.74W/m2 °C and 2.3W/m2 °C in sheared pelts. 4. From our results, there is seasonal moult in guanacos. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An experiment based on males from 20 llama and 40 alpaca reared in Peru evaluated the carcass characteristics from animals slaughtered at 25 months of age, at a final body weight of 46.1kg for alpaca and 63.2kg for llama. Warm carcass weight was significantly higher in llama carcasses compared with alpaca, while dressing percentage was higher in alpacas. In the llama carcasses, leg, thorax and chops were heavier compared with the same cuts taken from the alpaca carcasses (P &#60;0.05). In contrast, the shoulder and neck were proportionately heavier in the alpaca compared with the llama carcasses. Full digestive tract was the heaviest component found in the carcasses. In the llama carcasses, both full digestive tract and digestive content were significantly heavier than in the alpaca carcasses. Significant differences were observed in the proportion of muscle and bone in the shoulder and in the leg of the llama and alpaca carcasses. Llama and alpaca slaughtered at similar age showed different carcass characteristics; considering the results of this study, llama can be more easily bred as animal for meat production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study was designed to investigate Toxoplasma gondii infection in adult llamas (Lama glama) and vicunas (Vicugna vicugna) in the Peruvian Andean region, for which to date no information has been available. Serum samples from 43 llamas (L. glama) and 200 vicunas were tested by IFAT detecting titres of 1:50 or higher in 55.8% (33.9–70.9%) and 5.5% (2.8–9.6%), respectively. IFAT titres ranged from 1:50 to 1:6400. In order to avoid cross reactions with closely related coccidian parasites and to confirm the existence of T. gondii specific antibodies, IFAT positive sera from both ruminant species were also analysed by western blot. T. gondii specific antigens were recognised by IFAT positive sera, although different IFAT cut-off points could be selected for llamas (1:200) and vicunas (1:50) meaning seroprevalence of 44.2% (29.1–60.1%) and 5.5% (2.8–9.6%), respectively. Based on the frequency and intensity of tachyzoite antigen recognition, at least three immunodominant antigens with apparent molecular weights of 22–24, 30, and 38–40kDa were detected, together with other minor protein fractions located in the 18–73kDa range. This study documents for the first time the presence of T. gondii infection and reports the target T. gondii antigens in adult llamas and vicunas in Peru. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sera of an experimentally Neospora caninum infected llama and a non-infected control llama were used to establish an immunoblot, an ELISA and an IFAT to detect antibodies against N. caninum tachyzoites. Subsequently, serum samples collected from a total of 871 South American Camelids (SAC: Lama glama, Lama pacos, Lama vicugna) of two farms in Peru and from 32 SAC of a farm in central Germany were examined for antibodies against N. caninum and Toxoplasma gondii. Based on the recognition of specific bands in the immunoblot, sera of SAC from Peru were differentiated into N. caninum-positive (n =18) and T. gondii-positive (n =30) samples and into samples negative or inconclusive for both parasites. Using the immunoblot results as the reference, a modified version of the p38-ELISA and the IFAT were evaluated for detecting N. caninum antibodies in SAC sera. Applying a cut-off as determined by two graph-receiver operating characteristic analysis both, the ELISA and the IFAT, exhibited a sensitivity and specificity of about 95% in the SAC sera from Peru. Serological testing confirmed that SAC may become infected with N. caninum under field conditions in Peru. In addition to alpacas and llamas also 114 wild living vicuñas had been examined for antibodies against N. caninum. However, only the alpacas and llamas but no vicuñas were found N. caninum-positive. In contrast, T. gondii-seropositive animals were detected in all three SAC species. The lack of N. caninum-seropositive vicuñas indicates that in the study area in Peru wild canids might not serve as definitive hosts of N. caninum while for T. gondii a life cycle including wild felids is likely. On the German farm no N. caninum- but only T. gondii-seropositive SAC (n =14) were detected. The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was significantly higher in adult SAC (alpacas in Peru, llamas in Germany) than in crias (i.e. &#60;12 months old foals) indicating that the predominant route of infection is post natal. Since the present study was restricted to a few farms, the seroprevalences determined are not representative. However, our results confirm natural infections with N. caninum and T. gondii in SAC. Whether these infections are linked to any disease, e.g. reproductive losses, has to be clarified in further studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sixteen intact male alpaca consisting of four age groups (AG1, 16±4.4 months, 44.3±9.2kg; AG2, 25±1.8 months, 51.7±2.3kg; AG3, 35±1.1 months, 64.7±15.6kg; and AG4, 60±12.0 months, 67.0±8.2kg) were housed in metabolism crates (20°C with 12:12h on:off light cycle). Three forages, straw (ST), grass hay (GH) and alfalfa (ALF) were fed to each alpaca in random order. The forages were fed at 12h intervals with water provided ad libitum. Treatment periods were 14 days, with blood samples collected over a 24h period on day 14 to determine temporal patterns of plasma metabolite and electrolytes. Dry matter intake was lower (P&#60;0.002) for ST at 212g/day, while GH and ALF were 678 and 715g/day, respectively. Nitrogen intake was 2.2, 14.7 and 23.9g/day (P&#60;0.002), respectively. Fecal N was 1.5 for ST, 4.8 for GH, and 5.1g/day for ALF (P&#60;0.002). Urine N excretion was 6.3 and 6.2g/day for ST and GH, increasing to 13.6g/day for ALF (P&#60;0.02). Nitrogen retained was -5.4, 3.7 and 5.2g/day for ST, GH and ALF, respectively, with an age and diet×age response (P&#60;0.01 and 0.05, respectively). Plasma glucose was not different for forage or age, averaging 7.6mmol/L. Lactate was lowest for GH (0.70mmol/L), with ST and ALF having similar concentrations (0.87 and 0.96mmol/L; P&#60;0.07). NEFA concentrations were highest for ST (398¿mol/L) and similar for GH and ALF (204 and 201¿mol/L; P&#60;0.003). Plasma urea N concentrations were similar for ST and GH (4.3 and 4.9mmol/L) increasing to 8.1mmol/L for ALF (P&#60;0.001). Plasma creatinine was higher for ST (250¿mol/L) than GH and ALF (214 and 205¿mol/L; P&#60;0.0001). Sodium and calcium concentrations were lower for ST than GH and ALF (P&#60;0.06 and 0.002, respectively), while potassium and chloride were not different across forages. Metabolite temporal patterns fluctuated over the 24h period with glucose, lactate, and ¿-amino N increasing and NEFA concentration decreasing postprandially. Crude N maintenance requirement was calculated to be 0.84, 0.63, 0.80 and 0.51g/W0.75 for AG1, AG2, AG3 and AG4, respectively. Overall N requirement was calculated to be 0.60g/W0.75. These data demonstrate the effects of feeding forages of varying quality on whole-body N utilization, temporal blood metabolite and electrolyte patterns and a possible age effect on maintenance N requirements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fifteen alpaca kids, comprising 10 huacaya and 5 suri, and 10 llama kids of chaku type, born on January 1998 at the “Alpaquero” Developing Centre of Toccra, located in the Arequipa Plateau, Caylloma Province (Peru), were chosen for determining the age at which all the secondary follicles reach the maturity, as well as for comparing the skin follicular structure and activity among these different types of Peruvian camelids. Skin biopsies were taken at 2, 4, 6, and 10 months of age in order to monitor four follicular parameters: i) follicular density (FD), ii) ratio of secondary to primary follicles (S/P), iii) percentage of medullated secondary fibres (PMS); and iv) percentage of active secondary follicles (PAS). As a general trend, three parameters, i.e., FD, PMS, and PAS, reached maximum values at the 2nd month, minimum values at the 6th month (i.e., during the winter season) and increased again until observations stopped at month 10. A slightly different trend was shown by the S/P parameter which, after having gained its maximum value at month 4, progressively decreased until the end of the observations. It is concluded that the South American camelids here investigated, gained a complete and mature skin follicle apparatus at an early age and, hence, producers should practice an anticipated first shearing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Immature stages of Microthoracius mazzai Werneck are described and illustrated from samples collected on Lama glama L, in the Jujenean puna (Jujuy, Argentina). Characteristics that allow identification of the nymph stages are established, of which head length is the most relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formicine ant Polyrhachis lama is a social parasite, exploiting its ponerine host ant species Diacamma sp. In most social parasitic associations, the parasitic species are closely related to their host species group, evolving directly from independent ancestors of the host species. However, in the Polyrhachis lama? Diacamma sp. association, the associated species belong to different ant subfamilies. Based on preliminary field surveys, we had presumed that P. lama might have given up its reproductive division of labour, i.e. workers would be able to produce males as well as workers and females parthenogenetically. In this study, this hypothesis was disproved: Polyrhachis lama workers cannot be fertilized and are only able to produce males. In the host?parasite association originating from nests possessing a P. lama queen, workers penetrate surrounding Diacamma sp. nests, carrying brood for rearing within these satellite nests. In this peculiar way, a single P. lama colony is able to exploit several Diacamma sp. colonies simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyses the manner in which trophoblast cells adhere to uterine epithelium and the subsequent interactions that contribute to the establishment of epitheliochorial placentation in the alpaca Lama pacos. Specimens at the luteal and follicular phases and at 22, 26, 30 and 45 days of pregnancy (op) were processed for morphological studies. On day 15 op, the blastocysts are completely free within the uterine lumen, with implantation starting around day 20. On days 22 and 26 of gestation, the trophoblast is apposed to the epithelial surface of the uterus, with areas of contact and adhesion by means of complex interdigitation. Implantation sites occur prevalently in the left uterine horn, but an expanded trophoblast also occupies large extensions of the right horn, where the maternofetal interaction shows peculiar areas of apposition. As development continues, attachment areas become more extensive. On days 30 and 45, many secretory granules can be seen in the uterine epithelium, while giant multinucleate cells appear interposed between the remaining trophoblast cells, showing intense alkaline phosphatase activity, deposits containing iron and PAS-positive granules. Placental lactogen hormone is not present within the cytoplasm of the binucleate or multinucleate trophoblast cells. By day 30 of gestation, the trophoblast layer is lined by an extraembryonic connective tissue that by day 45 is well vascularized, thus indicating the starting point of placental formation. Fetal and maternal capillaries indent the epithelium and the trophoblast, narrowing the specialized areas of exchange, which occur along the entire maternofetal interface, characterizing the diffuse nature of this placenta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined adult-juvenile conflict in the guanaco (Lama guanicoe). During spring, territorial males become increasingly aggressive toward all juveniles born the previous year and begin expelling them from family groups. In an apparent effort to reduce aggression, juveniles display submissive crouches when being observed, approached, or attacked by the territorial male. Therefore, we assessed the influence of juvenile submissive behavior on the timing of dispersal and also examined if dispersal time was related to survival and reproductive performance as adults. We also evaluated hypotheses regarding the evolution of juvenile mammalian dispersal in the context of if and how each may favor the forced dispersal of juvenile guanacos by territorial males. Juveniles generally dispersed in late spring and early summer, and a nearly equal proportion of females (n=46; 48%) and males (n=49; 52%) dispersed. More-submissive animals generally dispersed later than less-submissive animals. Juvenile sex and dispersal time were not related to survival. In contrast, juvenile sex and dispersal time were related to reproductive performance. The probability of reproducing was highest when juveniles dispersed early and decreased with increasing time in family groups prior to dispersal. The largest proportion of juveniles was forced to disperse during a 2-week interval following the peak of the breeding season. Competition for food resources is likely very intense at this juncture and territorial males may force older juveniles to disperse in order to divert food resources to younger neonates. Additionally, juveniles may be forced to disperse after territorial males mate their mothers to prevent lost mating opportunities, because females leave territories when their offspring disperse and possibly prior to mating with males. We conclude that the forced dispersal of juvenile guanacos by territorial males is ultimately driven by competition for food resources on territories. The timing of dispersal, however, may be tempered by the chronology of matings between territorial males and particular adult females, and/or genetic relatedness between territorial males and juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guanacos (Lama guanicoe) are the only wild ungulate species widely distributed across the Patagonian steppe and have undergone a precipitous population decline since the introduction of domestic sheep (Ovis aries) 100 years ago. There has been speculation that sheep ranching may have played a major role in guanaco population decline after monopolising the most productive land because of competition for forage plants. Our aim in this work was to estimate guanaco abundance and account for its variation across nine different sites, two seasons and two years. We conducted over 100 ground surveys of both guanacos and sheep and estimated the availability of the preferred plant species both animal species might select in their diet. We found that (1) sheep densities were up to 23 times higher than guanaco densities in sympatric conditions, (2) at a protected site without sheep, guanaco density was one order of magnitude higher than at the rest of the sites, (3) across nine different sites, sheep densities alone accounted for around 60% of the variation in guanaco abundance, (4) guanaco densities were negatively related to both total plant cover and availability of the preferred plant species in their diet, which were both positively associated with sheep density, and (5) within-site changes in guanaco densities between seasons and years were negatively related to changes in sheep densities. Our results are consistent with predictions on interspecific competition for food resources, although we cannot rule out possible effects of other human-related activities influencing guanaco abundance. We conclude that sheep compete with guanacos for forage in arid Patagonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the study which examines the literature concerning the lamoids in South America. The study is in two perspective that include survey of text and other references materials available to elementary school students and a research for current data about the range in some cases of individual species. As a result of study, it shows that it is possible to formulate teaching questions based on the ecological, economic and cultural niche of an animals.

Describes the pharmacokinetics of topical doramectin in llamas and alpacas. Mean plasmaconcentrations of the drugs; data showing that New World camelids may need to be treated more frequently or with a higher dose of topical doramectin than that approved in the U.S. for cattle.

To evaluate the potential impact of our research activities on guanacos (Lamaguanicoe), we tested for effects of radiocollaring on juvenile (≤1 year of age) survival in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile during 1992–1996. The survival of collared (40.1%) and uncollared (38.2%) juveniles was not significantly different (G=0.08; P=0.77). Our results suggest that radiocollaring does not adversely affect the survival of juvenile guanacos. Although we observed no effect of radiocollaring, we still underline the importance of testing for effects of radiocollars in other wildlife investigations when feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Slaughter by puntilla followed by neck sticking was examined in 20 recumbent llamas. Repeat stabbing was needed to penetrate the foramen ovale in 45% of the llamas, and two animals attempted to stand after the first stab. Puntilla was found to be ineffective, as all animals showed rhythmic breathing movements at the flank following puntilla and before sticking, and 95% had a positive palpebral reflex at the same time. The findings indicated that it is difficult in practice to penetrate the spinal cord with a single puntilla stab. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a short communication that describes a case of coccidiosis in a 16-month-old alpaca in Great Britain. This animal had been purchased at an auction four weeks previously and was reported to have been found dead after a short period of restlessness. Based on the examination, severe necrotising enteritis was observed. Histological examination of the small intestine detected multiple clumps of eosinophilic material on the mucosal surface and others has been conducted.