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Since our founding in 1948, Morris Animal Foundation has funded hundreds of health research studies to protect, treat and cure the world's companion animals and wildlife.
Our studies have led to major advances in veterinary care, including vaccines and other preventions, diagnostic tools and new therapies for the diseases and health conditions that threaten the lives of the animals we love. Search our completed study database by species and/or disease to learn more about how our work has given animals longer, healthier lives.
Category
D05ZO-609: Lurking in the Wings: Investigation of Avian Hemoparasites and Their Insect Vectors at the Fort Worth Zoo
principal investigator: Veronica Flores, student, Texas A&M University
Project Mentor: Karen Snowden, DVM, PhD
completed
Year: 1 of 1. $0
The Fort Worth Zoo has suffered multiple exotic bird losses due to the blood borne parasites Haemoproteus and Plasmodium. This project used light traps to catch biting flies, midges, and mosquitoes. DNA was then extracted to determine if these pests carried either of the parasites. They also sampled birds in the zoo collection to determine if they were asymptomatic parasite carriers. The investigator found that 12% of mosquitoes were positive for Plasmodium parasites and one zoo bird was a carrier of Plasmodium as well. This study identified potential insect vectors and avian carriers of blood borne parasites, and the investigator states that by controlling insect vector populations and minimizing contact between at-risk birds and carrier birds, risk of infection will be reduced.
Veronica says, "During the course of the summer program, I was exposed to careers that combine research and clinical medicine. I am currently interested in pursuing laboratory animal medicine, which would incorporate clinical medicine into a research setting."
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