Giardia infection in budgerigars.
Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) from two different breeding colonies were found to have Giardia infection. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and in-vitro and in-vivo studies confirmed the species was G psittaci. Chicks were clinically affected and showed signs of retarded growth, dehydration and diarrhoea. The faeces of adult birds treated with metronidazole in drinking water were negative for Giardia 5 days after treatment. Megabacteria were also found in adult birds but were not treated. This study extends the known host range for Giardia in Australia to include budgerigars.
Filippich
L J
LJ
School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland.
McDonnell
P A
PA
Munoz
E
E
Upcroft
J A
JA
D000818:Animals; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D001715:Bird Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000469:parasitology*; D005243:Feces / Q000469:parasitology*; D005260:Female; D005872:Giardia / Q000145:classification / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005873:Giardiasis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000469:parasitology / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010311:Parrots / Q000469:parasitology*