Date of Award
Fall 12-9-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Biological Science (MBioSci)
Department
Biological Science
First Advisor
Andrei L. Barkovskii
Abstract
Climate change and anthropogenic activities have significantly contributed to the global spread and persistence of pathogens. The Vibrio harveyi clade, a group of bacteria of particular concern for both human and wildlife health, is known for its environmental adaptability. As a result of climate-induced environmental changes, pathogens are now able to thrive in regions where they were previously absent. The Southeastern United States, with its favorable environmental conditions, serves as a key habitat for members of the V. harveyi clade. In this study, quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were developed to detect specific species within the V. harveyi clade, facilitating the monitoring of their presence, abundance, and distribution in this region. Pathogens from this clade were detected at least once during the sampling period across a variety of environmental samples, including sediment, water, clams, and oysters. Overall, the results indicated that most species were present and most abundant in August. Additional findings suggest that the concentrations of V. parahaemolyticus and V. splendidus in water could serve as indicators of potential contamination or disease in mollusks. Notably, this study also identifies the presence of V. harveyi and V. campbellii in water and sediment samples—species that had not previously been reported in the Southeastern U.S. Furthermore, the study reveals that V. parahaemolyticus, V. harveyi, and V. campbellii are carriers of virulence genes (VGs), suggesting a risk for pathogenic outbreaks. Comparisons of environmental water parameters with species-specific copy numbers indicate that these parameters can potentially be used to predict the abundance of Harveyi clade pathogens in bivalves. Uneven distribution of these VG carriers also points to the possibility of specific "hot spots" for pathogenic bacteria. Together, these findings underscore the dynamic nature of pathogen distribution and the need for ongoing surveillance in regions at risk of new pathogen introductions. Continued research is crucial to understanding and mitigating the threats posed by these emerging pathogens.
Recommended Citation
Royer, Karagan X., "DISTRIBUTION & ABUNDANCE OF HARVEYI CLADE PATHOGENS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AS DRIVERS & PREDICTORS FOR THEIR CONCENTRATION DYNAMICS IN WATER, SEDIMENTS, & BIVALVES" (2024). Biology Theses. 39.
https://kb.gcsu.edu/biology/39