What is planned for the project in 2022?

Hi everyone,

To start, thank you to @ninjajuju , @gilliematthew , @petersimple for your observations this week, and as our newest members I would like to welcome to the Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome project!

This week I would like to fill you all in as to what new developments we have in action for the project this year. Along with all the data you are creating on what lorikeets are feeding on in the LPS affected area, we have teamed up with Rachele at Griffith University. Rachele has developed a screening tool to identify the DNA from the plants that flying-foxes have ingested by testing their faeces. We have done a preliminary ‘proof-of-concept’ study to determine if we can use the same technology to identify the plants rainbow lorikeets have been feeding on just prior to the onset of LPS.

Our preliminary findings show that this tool does work with samples from rainbow lorikeets and suggests that lorikeets with LPS feed on figs (Ficus spp.) and possibly other fruits prior to the onset of LPS. This has made us consider the possibly that a bacterium or a fungus may grow on or in these fruits and may produce the toxin causing LPS, as figs are not thought to be toxic themselves. Another possibility is that a venomous insect inside the fruit (possibly a wasp) might be ingested or sting or bite the lorikeet causing LPS.

The next step will be to run more samples from lorikeets with LPS and control lorikeets that present at the same time, but do not have LPS. We are also examining the possibility that we can use similar technology to screen the droppings of these birds for fungal, insect and arachnid DNA.

We look forward to keeping you updated on this additional aspect of the project, and providing you with analysis of your contributions thus far in the coming months.

Stay safe, and happy Rainbow Lorikeet spotting!

Kind regards,
Lauren, David, Maya

Posted on February 10, 2022 03:47 AM by lozb97