Detection of potentially pathogenic species of the genus Mycoplasma in the conjunctiva and external ear of sheep

Abstract

Mycoplasmas are responsible for several infections in small ruminants. Potentially pathogenic mycoplasmas have already been detected in the external ear canal of Brazilian healthy goats and cattle, and in association with mites, but not in sheep. The present research aimed to evaluate the role of the conjunctiva and external ear as a silent source of micoplasmas in sheep. Ocular and external ear canal swab samples were obtained from forty-five male and female sheep. Molecular detection (PCR) and isolation of Mycoplasma spp. were performed. Minimum inhibitory concentration was performed using oxytetracycline, tylosin, chloramphenicol and nalidixic acid. We describe the isolation of Mycoplasma conjunctivae from the ocular conjunctivae of a healthy sheep, besides the molecular detection of M. agalactiae and M. mycoides subsp. capri in both anatomical sites in sheep from the State of São Paulo. Phylogenetic analysis revealed proximity and similarity with an American sheep and goat isolates. The ocular conjunctiva and the external ear of sheep are keepers of potentially pathogenic veterinary mycoplasmas which can infect vulnerable sheep.