ARS | Publication request: DARKLING BEETLES AS A RESERVOIR FOR CAMPYLOBACTER IN NEW ZEALAND POULTRY FLOCKS

Submitted to: World Veterinary Poultry Association
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: January 5, 2004
Publication Date: March 31, 2004
Citation: Bates, C., Stern, N.J., Hiett, K.L. 2004. Darkling beetles as a reservoir for Campylobacter in New Zealand poultry flocks [Abstract]. Avian Diseases. 48:138-147.

Technical Abstract: The highest rate of human Campylobacteriosis in the developed world is found in New Zealand. An important factor in human Campylobacteriosis in New Zealand may be chicken consumption. This study considers the transmission of Campylobacter to poultry through darkling beetles. Campylobacter has been isolated from darkling beetles and they are known vectors of other microbial pathogens. The present study sought to investigate the relationship between beetle infestation and the flock Campylobacter status. A trapping method was used to determine beetle infestation in poultry production. A breeder flock and its progeny broiler flock were included in the study. Samples of collected beetles and intestinal excreta from the birds were cultured for the presence of Campylobacter spp. Campylobacter isolates were subtyping by DNA sequencing. DNA sequencing was used to assess common links between isolates. Various Campylobacter types were isolated, indicating that the problem of Campylobacter colonization of poultry is likely to arise from a number of different reservoirs. A genetically distinct isolate was found common to the broiler flock and beetles. This research establishes that Alphitobius diaperinus can contribute to the carriage of Campylobacter in poultry.