Specific PCR assay for a tannin-tolerant selenomonas ruminantium isolate, derived from helicase coding sequences.

Sequences from a tannin-tolerant Selenomonas ruminantium isolate (EAT2) that hydrolyzes gallic acid were identified. Two exhibited identity to helicases with a wide phylogenetic distribution. PCR amplification by using primers from one helicase gene detected 2000 to 5000 EAT2 genome equivalents but did not amplify total gastrointestinal microbial DNA of nine other ungulate species.

Phylogenetic analysis of the microbial populations in the wild herbivore gastrointestinal tract: insights into an unexplored niche.

At present, there is little information on the phylogenetic diversity of microbial species that inhabit the gastrointestinal tracts of wildlife. To increase understanding in this area, we initiated a characterization of the bacterial diversity in the digestive tracts of three wild African ruminant species namely eland (Taurotragus oryx), Thompson's gazelle (Gazella rufifrons) and Grant's gazelle (Gazella granti), together with a domesticated ruminant species, zebu cattle (Bos indicus), and a non-ruminant species, zebra (Equus quagga). Bacterial diversity was analysed by PCR amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences.

Influence of diet on the rumen protozoal fauna of indigenous African wild ruminants.

A study was carried out to determine if the protozoal fauna of indigenous African wild ruminants was different from that found in their domestic counterparts and if the animal's diet influenced the number and types of protozoa. Samples of rumen contents were collected in 1997 and 2001 from various indigenous African wild ruminants in Kenya. All three ruminant feeding types were sampled: browsers or concentrate selectors (giraffe and Guenther's dik-dik); intermediate or adaptable mixed feeders (impala, Thomson's gazelle, Grant's gazelle and eland); grass or roughage eaters (hartebeest and wildebeest).