New Bacteria Caused Mysterious Death of Wild Elephants in Zimbabwe in 2020 [Study]

Elephants in Zimbabwe mysteriously died in 2020, and scientists were baffled by their deaths. However, a new study seemingly found the reason behind their passing.

New Bacteria Caused Elephant Deaths in 2020

A species of bacterium that has never been observed in wild elephants was discovered under the carcasses of six African Savannah elephants that perished in inexplicable circumstances in Zimbabwe. In a new study, scientists believe the animals' deaths in 2020 were caused by septicemia or blood poisoning.

The investigation could offer more information about the 356 elephant deaths in neighboring Botswana that same year. When the dead elephants were found in Botswana's Okavango Panhandle, conservationists' discovery made headlines worldwide. While moving or sprinting, some animals suddenly fell and passed away.

Researchers uncovered the revelation of the abrupt deaths of 35 elephants between August and September 2020 in North-Western Zimbabwe.

Dr. Chris Foggin, a wildlife veterinarian from the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, revealed that the team had to use a helicopter to find the dead. He and his crew performed post-mortem examinations on 15 elephants while donning safety gear and working in stifling heat.

They were such big animals, Dr. Foggin noted, emphasizing their struggles in getting access to the organs where they needed samples. According to the study, thirteen of the elephants were found to have septicemia at the time of death. Importantly, they identified a possible culprit in six animals - a bacteria known as Bisgaard taxon 45. This particular kind has already been identified in tiger or lion bite swabs.

"[This type of bacteria] wasn't completely mysterious - it was known to exist," explained Prof. Falko Steinbach of the UK's Animal and Plant Health Agency, who was part of the mission. "But it had not been associated with septicemia and never been found in the African elephants."

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Stress May Have Worsened Elephants' Condition

The severe drought and food shortage that year may have also impacted the animals' health, allowing the sickness to overwhelm their immune systems. Prof. Steinbach stated that more investigation was required to determine the relationship between this infection and the strain from harsh weather conditions, such as drought, which may increase the likelihood of outbreaks.

He noted that with more research, they may be able to pinpoint what causes these epidemics and perhaps develop prevention measures or even a vaccine. He stressed that it would need to be thoroughly investigated.

Laura Rosen from US-based company Transboundary Epidemiology Analytics said the finding was "very worrying." According to her, African savannah elephants are already endangered, so it's important to investigate the deaths to ensure the species' future.

Elephants have strong memories, and they can be emotional. In India, the human-wildlife conflict worsened after elephants killed three locals this month.

Elephants are typically friendly animals, but if disturbed, they may become quite vicious predators. These enormous beasts can weigh up to 8,000 pounds, and their 700-pound lifting capacity comes from the 40,000 muscles in their trunks.

Some elephant and human encounters don't end well but result in the loss of property, livelihood, and even life. Due to this, there is fear that the species may become extinct due to defensive and retaliatory killing.