Molecular and phylogenetic characterization of Cryptosporidium species in the saffron finch Sicalis flaveola

Background: Cryptosporidium is the most common protozoan that can infect a wide variety of animals, including mammals and birds. Fecal samples of six saffron finches, Sicalis flaveola, from a commercial establishment were screened for the presence of Cryptosporidium by the modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique and nested PCR of the 18S rRNA gene followed by sequencing of the amplified fragments. Results: The species Cryptosporidium galli was identified in all six saffron fiches, in addition to Cryptosporidium andersoni in one of the birds, indicating a mixed infection. Only two birds had feathers that were ruffled and dirty with feces. Concomitant infection with Isospora spp. was observed in all birds. Conclusions: Saffron finches are a possible host of C. andersoni and this is the first report of this species in a captive bird and the third report of parasitism by C. galli in Sicalis flaveola.

Automated summary

Screening of fecal samples from saffron finches in a commercial establishment identified the potential host role of these birds for C. andersoni, with this being the first reported occurrence in a captive bird. Additionally, parasitism by C. galli was observed, marking the third reported case in Sicalis flaveola.