Investigations on the prevalence of tortoise picorna-virus in captive tortoises in Germany.

摘要: Objective: Tortoise picornavirus (ToPV) has been speculated to play an important role in the frequently seen disease pattern of juvenile shell softening. This study aimed determine ToPV prevalence among German tortoise collections. Material and methods: A total 334 animals selected from 27 different collections were included. Seven species four genera family Testudinidae (Testudo graeca, T. hermanni, marginata, horsfieldii, Centrochelys sulcata, Stigmochelys pardalis, Chelonoidis carbonarius) sampled. The tortoises clinically investigated none adults showed any signs hatchlings a ToPV-positive graeca breeding pair retarded growth progressive weakness that resulted death. Each animal was sampled by conjunctival, pharyngeal cloacal swabs (990 total) blood sampling (293 total). All three one pooled tested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for RNA. Blood samples virus neutralisation test (VNT) specific anti antibodies. titres equal or higher than log2 = 2 considered positive. Results: In total, 35 adult 11 positive serological investigation did detect antibodies against 44 juvenile. 76 either investigations, 16 both. highest number found with 32 %. No specimens C. carbonarius, S. pardalis Conclusion clinical relevance: results propose predisposition as well high whereas other only single no animals, but may function carriers.