Screening, pathogenicity and molecular characterization of bacterial isolates from droppings of Pavo cristatus (Indian Peafowl)

Abstract

The Indian Peafowl, Pavo cristatus, an avian species renowned for its stunning plumage and mating rituals, frequently coexists in habitats with human populations and domestic animals. In particular, these birds can carry and spread pathogenic bacteria, and such intimate encounters raise questions regarding possible disease transmission. In this regard, the present study has discussed the bacterial pathogens associated with infections in Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus). These bacterial pathogens associated with infections in Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) were screened from faecal samples. Bacterial colonies were isolated using nutrient agar plates. The bacterial pathogen was identified as Bacillus anthracis, and Alcaligenes faecalis. Alcaligenes faecalis showed a maximum zone of inhibition of 11.5 ± 1 for Meropenum, and the minimum zone was 8.5 ± 0.57 for Clarithromycin. Bacillus anthracis showed a maximum zone of inhibition of 10.5 ± 0.57 for Meropenum and a minimum zone of 1.25 ± 0.5 for Penicillin. The optimum pH & temperature for all bacterial isolates were 7 and 37° C respectively. In conclusion, it was observed that different bacterial pathogens are causing infections in peafowls, resulting in death & decline in their populations.