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Avian DNA Sexing + PBFD + Polyoma
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| We performed sex determination tests on more than 650 species click
here to see the species we have tested |
Avian DNA Sexing
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Description |
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The DNA technique of sexing developed by LABOKLIN is extremely accurate and capable of testing most common species. We have tested more than 650 different species. The technique is based on a molecular method that includes a PCR reaction. This DNA test creates fast and reliable results within a short period of time. Additional to PCR reaction, the PCR product is digested with two different restriction enzymes. These enzymes recognize short nucleotid sequences in DNA molecules and cut them at specific points within the so-called recognition sequences. While a particular sex is verified, the other sex can be excluded. Because the amplification is based on two highly conserved genomic regions, it is possible to analyse many different breeds.
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Sample Requirements |
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either a blood sample or feathers. Few drops of blood are sufficient for the test; it should either be send in a EDTA-tube or dropped onto a filter paper card and air-dried (both the tubes and the filter paper cards are available from us). Two to three feathers are also sufficient for the test (only quills are required); they must be freshly plucked. Lost or down feathers are not suitable, as they do not contain sufficient utilisable DNA. All sample material from one bird needs to be packed individually (to avoid contamination between birds) and labelled clearly with species, ring number etc.
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Notes |
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If you choose to send blood samples, please dont spike the blood sample with ethanole or other buffers!!
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PBFD (Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease)
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Description |
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PBFD is caused by a circovirus which kills the cells of feathers and the beak. It is a naturally occurring infection in Australian cockatoos but it is found in all types of parrots as well as lovebirds, cockatiels, budgies and parakeets. African greys are particularly badly affected. PBFD is a dreadful disease which normally results in the death of affected birds and the decimation of young birds in infected collections. Chronically affected birds become immunosuppressed and may succumb to other diseases due to their depressed immune system. A positive result from a bird with no feather problems or other clinical signs may mean either that the bird is a carrier or that it has been recently exposed to the virus. In these cases we recommend isolating the bird and re-testing in about 90 days. We also recommend that the second sample is collected directly from a vein by venipuncture to avoid contamination. The majority of birds which are merely exposed will develop an immune response and eliminate the infection. Those still positive at the second test should be considered as carriers. One day they are likely to show the disease, and become potential source of infection to other birds.
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Sample Requirements |
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1-2 drops of blood in EDTA tube and, if the bird¿s feather looks abnormal, we also need an ill looking quill including its pulp.
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Avian Polyoma
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Description |
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Avian Polyoma (also known as Budgerigar Fledgling Disease) is most prevalent in macaws, conures, eclectus parrots, ring-necked parrots, lovebirds, cockatiels and budgies although it occurs in all psittacine species. It is most commonly recognised in chicks in the nest. Swollen bellies, tremors, weak wobbly chicks, or abnormal feathers may be seen. Larger psittacine species may live longer and show diarrhoea or regurgitation. Classical infections seem to affect larger species at around 7 weeks of age and can kill within a few hours of the first signs with chicks showing large bruise-like haemorrhages under the skin. Adult birds are also affected. Signs resemble those of septicaemia and hepatitis. Some infected adult birds may not show any signs but may become carriers shedding the virus Embryonic death or decreased hatchability can also be caused by Polyomavirus. Polyoma is transmitted primarily bird to bird but it is also thought to be transmitted via the egg.
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Sample Requirements |
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1-2 freshly plucked feathers from the birds chest or tail (no discarded feathers or downs) or 1-2 drops of EDTA whole blood should be sent. You can also send post mortem material or cloacal swab
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Turnaround for the above 3 tests |
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withing 7 working days
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Price
for the above 3 tests
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| Number of
birds |
Price (incl
VAT) |
| From
1
to
3
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£65.00 per sample
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| From
4
to
40
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£39.95 per sample
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