Avian malariaAvian malaria parasites are a widespread group of vector-transmitted blood parasites (Haemosporida; transmitted to birds primarily by mosquitoes and biting midges). As is the case with human malaria, these parasites can cause severe problems for infected birds. However, avian malaria parasites are not well studied in Australia, so we don't have a good understanding of how common they are or which bird species are important carriers. Using recently developed DNA techniques to identify infections, along with traditional parasitology methods (microscopy of blood smears), my PhD work involved several projects to describe the diversity, distribution and ecological impacts of avian malaria parasites in Australian and south Pacific birds. This work was generously funded by BirdLife Australia and Birds Queensland. Check out my Publications for details on some of my projects and see here for my top-cited global review of avian malaria genetic diversity. |
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Microfilaria wormsFilarial nematodes are also vector-transmitted parasites that can co-infect birds alongside malaria. These worms cause anemia and can cause strong immune responses in birds, but they have been less well-studied compared to malaria parasites. My research uses DNA techniques to identify malaria / microfilaria co-infections in island birds and blood smears to test for affects on host immune responses (get the PDF here). This work mostly focuses on birds in New Caledonia, where microfilaria infections are unusually common. This work was funded by a National Geographic grant to Dr. Sonya Clegg. |
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