Successful Treatment of Fungal Dermatitis in a Bottlenose Dolphin ().

In recent decades, many fungi have emerged as major causes of disease in marine mammals. This study reports on the detection of filamentous fungi in the subcutaneous tissue and wound surface on the tail fin of a managed bottlenose dolphin () emaciated due to severe digestive problems. Immunosuppression by chronic diseases and starvation decreased resistance against opportunistic infections.

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is superior to blow samples for the identification of fungi in the lower respiratory tract of beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas).

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) can be used to identify pathogens in the lower respiratory tract. To assess the utility of cetacean BALF in pathogen identification, we obtained 36 sets of fungal isolates from paired BALF and blow samples collected from six managed beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). In 13 sets, Candida tropicalis was isolated from BALF, whereas Candida spp.

Bronchial Tree System Analysis of Live Beluga Whale () Using Bronchoscopy.

Cetaceans, including beluga whales (), have high morbidity and mortality rates due to bacterial or fungal lower respiratory infections. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) collection by bronchoscopy is beneficial for detecting pathogenic microorganisms in the lower respiratory tract. Efficient and safe bronchoscopy requires characterizing the bronchial tree systems of beluga whales, as no reports exist on bronchial length and bifurcation.

Midazolam and butorphanol combination for sedating beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas).

Safe sedation doses for performing minor procedures such as bronchoscopy, endoscopy, and tooth extraction for beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) require elucidation. This study aimed to provide suggestions for determining appropriate midazolam and butorphanol doses to adequately sedate beluga whales to complete procedures and minimize the risk of side effects. We administered midazolam and butorphanol to six captive beluga whales (9-44 years old).