Development and utility of a gene transcription panel for desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni)
Respiratory disease is a key factor impacting the success of the ongoing conservation and recovery of wild sheep populations (WAFWA 2017). Although the primary pathogens involved in the bighorn sheep pneumonia complex have been identified, the wide variability in herd response following infection is not well understood (Cassirer et al. 2018). The response of populations infected with Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae has been variable, from minimal to extensive herd mortality followed by years to decades of either poor lamb recruitment or little expression of disease and minimal impact on lamb survival (Coggins and Mathews 1992, Jorgenson et al. 1997, Cassirer et al. 2018). This variation is thought to be caused by differences in pathogen virulence, intrinsic or extrinsic factors that impact individual or herd immunity, including lungworm (Protostrongylus spp.) or mite (Psoroptes ovis) infections, malnutrition, inbreeding, harsh weather conditions, or stress associated with overcrowding (Risenhoover et al. 1988, Bailey 1990, Jones and Worley 1994, Monello et al. 2001). Although substantial management strategies have been implemented, they have been ineffective in halting the spread of the epizootic (Cassirer et al. 2018).
Citation Information
| Publication Year | 2018 |
|---|---|
| Title | Development and utility of a gene transcription panel for desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) |
| Authors | Lizabeth Bowen, Kathleen Longshore, Peregrine Wolff, Shannon C. Waters, A. Keith Miles, Mike Cox, Sarah Bullock |
| Publication Type | Conference Paper |
| Publication Subtype | Conference Paper |
| Index ID | 70240324 |
| Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
| USGS Organization | Western Ecological Research Center |
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Lizabeth Bowen
Research Ecologist
Kathleen Longshore
Research Wildlife Biologist
A. Keith Miles
Center Director
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Lizabeth Bowen
Research EcologistEmailPhoneKathleen Longshore
Research Wildlife BiologistEmailPhoneA. Keith Miles
Center DirectorEmail