Serratospiculiasis in Captive Falcons in the Middle East: A Review

Authors:
  • JSJaime H. Samour
    Jaime H. Samour
  • JNJesus Naldo
    Jesus Naldo
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Abstract
Serratospiculiasis is a parasitic disease produced by filarial nematodes of the genus Serratospiculum in the subfamily Dicheilonematinae. This genus comprises at least 9 different species grouped according to the length of the spicules. In the Middle East, S seurati has been the only species of this genus positively identified to date in captive falcons. Serratospiculum seurati has an indirect life cycle, like other filarioids. In a previous study, the larval life cycle of S seurati was replicated in 5 different species of beetles. More recently, 2 additional invertebrate species (a beetle and a wood louse) that occur where falcons are maintained were added. Serratospiculum seurati is transmitted in captivity by ingestion of infected beetles. After beetle ingestion, the L3 larvae are released from their capsule and penetrate the wall of the proventriculus and ventriculus. Histopathologic evidence suggests that the migration to the air sac system is direct. After reaching the air sacs, the L3 larv...