This manuscript discusses the potentials of the approaches as mentioned below to monitor the AIVs in WMW. Molecular diagnostic platforms enable for accurate detection of the AIVs in the feces of infected birds. Similar technologies can be used to determine the bird species through DNA barcoding, enabling non-invasive research on the epidemiology of the disease. Wild migratory waterfowl (WMW) play significant role in the transmission of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) on large distances. Understanding bird migrations may therefore significantly contribute towards understanding of the disease epidemiology, however most conventional approaches to trace WMW migrations are based on capturing, tagging (mostly ringing or GPS devices) and their re-capturing to link the departure and arrival places. Stable isotope ratios in metabolically inert tissues (feathers, beaks, claws) reflect the ratios present at the point of intake (drinking or feeding), thus enabling for tracing bird origins at stopover places. Molecular diagnostic platforms such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enable for accurate detection of the AIVs in the feces of infected birds. Similar technologies (genetic sequencing) can be used to determine the bird species through DNA barcoding. Simple and easy collection of feather and fecal samples at the stopover places may generate a full information package on which species of WMW carries the AIVs (PCR+DNA barcoding on the feces), as well as the origin of these species (SI+DNA barcoding on the feathers). Therefore, such approaches enable for research on the epidemiology and the ecology of the AIVs in WMW using a non-invasive platform, which does not require capturing of WMW. This manuscript discusses the potentials of these approaches to monitor the AIVs in WMW. p>

Tracking Animal Migration with Stable Isotopes provides a consolidated overview of the current knowledge of stable isotopes in terrestrial migration research questions. It offers ecologists and conservation biologists provide a practical handbook for those considering using stable isotopes in their migration research. Presents information for readers to understand how to apply isotopic methods for tracking Critical information on areas for future research Practical guidelines and discussions of sample collection, sample preparation, and data analysis Enhanced understanding of data and statistical analysis in isotope-based studies of migratory animals

Stable isotope analysis is rapidly becoming an important method in an animal ecologist's toolbox. However, the field of isotopic ecology operates in a world of assumptions based largely on phenomenological data. It is important to test these assumptions if this field is going to continue to grow and prosper. This dissertation explores the application of stable isotopes to (1) determine the effects of temperature, metabolism, growth, and catabolism on isotopic incorporation, (2) develop new models to describe isotopic incorporation, and (3) characterize the breeding ground isotope signatures of a migratory game bird and determine if commonly used maps of isotopes in precipitation can be used to predict feather isotope values.

The 20th century has experienced environmental changes that appear to be unprecedented in their rate and magnitude during the Earth s history. For the first time, this special volume brings together a wide range of perspectives and data that speak directly to the issues of ecological change using stable isotope tracers. The information presented originates from a range of biological and geochemical sources and from research fields within biological, climatological and physical disciplines covering time-scales from days to centuries. Unlike any other reference, editors discuss where isotope data can detect, record, trace and help to interpret environmental change. * Provides researchers with groundbreaking data on how to predict the terrestrial ecosystems response to the ongoing rapid alterations * Reveals how ecosystems have responded to environmental and biotic fluctuations in the past * Includes examples from research by a wide range of biological and physical scientists who are using isotopic records to both detect and interpret environmental change"

Stable isotopes are used extensively in all areas of ecology: in studying metabolic processes, to monitor nitrogen turnover in soil, to look at pollution in rainwater, to trace elements through ecosystems, etc. This book, written by two of the leading researchers in the field, will explain the background to stable isotope methodology and discuss the use of the methods in varying ecological situations. An ideal resource for all ecologists using or seeking to use isotopes in their research. A complete guide to the methods, the theory behind them and their advantages and disadvantages. Adopts an ecosystem approach - unlike the competition.

A solid introduction to stable isotopes that can also be used as an instructive review for more experienced researchers and professionals. The book approaches the use of isotopes from the perspective of ecological and biological research, but its concepts can be applied within other disciplines. A novel, step-by-step spreadsheet modeling approach is also presented for circulating tracers in any ecological system, including any favorite system an ecologist might dream up while sitting at a computer. The author’s humorous and lighthearted style painlessly imparts the principles of isotope ecology. The online material contains color illustrations, spreadsheet models, technical appendices, and problems and answers.

The population explosion that began in the 1960s has been accompanied by a decrease in the quality of the natural environment, e.g. pollution of the air, water and soil with essential and toxic trace elements. Numerous poisonings of people and animals with highly toxic anthropogenic Hg and Cd in the 20th century prompted the creation of the abiotic environment, mainly in developed countries. However, the system is insufficient for long-term exposure to low concentrations of various substances that are mainly ingested through food and water. This problem could be addressed by the monitoring of sentinels – organisms that accumulate trace elements and as such reflect the rate and degree of environmental pollution. Usually these are long-lived vertebrates – herbivorous, omnivorous and carnivorous birds and mammals, especially game species. This book describes the responses of the sentinels most commonly used in ecotoxicological studies to 17 trace elements.