Prevalence of bovine TB in Kruger Park lions could be dire

THE high prevalence of animal tuberculosis (TB) in lion populations of the Kruger National Park (KNP) could have severe biodiversity and economic implications for the region.

This is according to research by the SA Research Chair (SARChI) in animal TB research, based on a newly-developed molecular technique which found that more than half of the lions in the southern regions of the park may be infected with a form of animal TB.

“According to our research the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is estimated to be 54% in the southern KNP lion population, with decreasing numbers in the central areas,” said doctoral student at Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) Tashnica Sylvester.

Sylvester’s work has been highlighted in the institution’s award-winning publication, Research at Stellenbosch University, which this year focuses on the core strategic themes: research for impact.

The new edition of the publication was officially launched by the Division for Research Development recently.

Sylvester is a member of the research group that developed a new diagnostic test to detect BTB infection in lions using a single blood sample.

Previously, lions had to be captured twice in three days to perform a TB skin test, but with the new method,

“Bovine TB is estimated at 54% in the lion population Tashnica Sylvester Doctoral student

called gene expression assay, they will only have to be captured once.

A recent study by the Animal TB Research Group also suggests that lions may transmit bacteria between themselves through respiratory secretions (droplets transmitted through sneezing or coughing).

These findings still have to be confirmed, according to the university.

Lions are apex predators that determine the balance of species.

The health of lion populations, therefore, impacts on the biodiversity of an ecosystem.

“In a park such as the KNP, which is South Africa’s largest wildlife refuge and a critical biodiversity resource, the loss of lions could have significant effects on the ecosystem,” Sylvester said. Although lions infected with BTB do not pose a direct threat to humans, sick lions may be too weak to hunt their normal prey and may roam closer to areas inhabited by humans and their livestock.

“Increased awareness of TB in wildlife is the first step in addressing the ecological, conservation, socio-economic and public health issues associated with this disease.

“Since BTB affects a wide diversity of species, including domestic animals, wildlife and humans, research is crucial to understanding the origin, prevalence and risk factors associated with intra- and interspecies transmission,” Sylvester said.