Publications by authors named "Amber K Gillett"
Genetic characterisation of spp. (Nematoda: Gnathostomatidae) from marine hosts in Australia.
Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl
April 2022
Article Synopsis
- The study focused on genetically characterizing larval and adult nematode specimens from the genus Molin, 1858 (Gnathostomatidae) found in various Australian marine hosts, including stingrays and sea snakes.
- Specimens were identified morphologically and genetically through small subunit nuclear ribosomal DNA (SSU) analysis, revealing some unresolved morphological differences from prior studies.
- Molecular analyses indicated strong genetic similarities between Australian larvae and those from fish species in Egypt, highlighting the expanded host range of these nematodes and the need for improved taxonomy in the genus.
Article Synopsis
- The koala is a vulnerable marsupial species due to habitat loss and disease, which led to the sequencing of its complete genome.
- The study found that the koala's ability to detoxify eucalyptus leaves is linked to expansions in certain gene families related to smell and taste, as well as identified protective proteins for young koalas.
- Recommendations for koala conservation include creating habitat corridors and initiating translocation programs to support genetically diverse populations.
There is limited published information about disease in wild sea snakes and no standardized guideline for postmortem examination of sea snakes. Identifying causes of morbidity and mortality of marine vertebrate species has been pivotal to understanding disease factors implicated in stranding events and assisting with the formulation of conservation plans. Additionally, postmortem findings can provide valuable information on life history traits and the ecology of these reclusive species.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFFour sea snakes (two Hydrophis major, one Hydrophis platurus, one Hydrophis elegans) were found washed ashore on different beaches in the Sunshine Coast region and Fraser Island in Queensland, Australia between 2007-2013. Each snake had multiple granulomas and locally extensive regions of pallor evident in the hypaxial and intercostal musculature along the body. Lesions in two individuals were also associated with vertebral and rib fractures.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis study presents the first set of comprehensive reference intervals (RIs) for plasma biochemistry and haematology for three species of sea snakes common to the Indo-Pacific waters of Australia. In total 98 snakes, composed of Hydrophis curtus (n= 60), H. elegans (n = 27) and H.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAn antemortem guide for the assessment of stranded Australian sea snakes (Hydrophiinae).
J Zoo Wildl Med
December 2014
Marine snakes of the subfamily Hydrophiinae are obligate ocean dwellers, unlike their amphibious counterparts, the sea kraits (Laticaudinae), and as such they are often referred to as 'true' sea snakes. This specialization means that the presence of a true sea snake on a beach is atypical and likely indicates disease or injury. Traumatic injuries such as eye, jaw, and spinal lesions have been observed in stranded sea snakes and may present as acute injury or progress to chronic debilitation.
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