Mucor ramosissimus associated with feather loss in Canaries (Serinus canarius)

Abstract

Three canaries showing feather loss on legs, dorsum, neck, and head, and hyperkeratosis on the feet were sacrificed because of their poor corporal condition and submitted to the Unit of Histology and Anatomic Pathology at the Veterinary School of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Histologically, skin revealed pronounced epidermal and follicular infundibular hyperplasia associated with orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis. Numerous fungal spores were observed on the stratum corneum of the epidermis and within feather follicles, associated with destruction of the feathers. This fungus was identified as Mucor ramosissimus. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first report of dermatitis and feather loss associated with Mucor ramosissimus, not only in canaries but also in birds.