Bacillus diphtheriae cuniculi is a specific strain or subspecies of the bacterium Bacillus diphtheriae.
Bacillus diphtheriae is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that is responsible for causing the infectious disease known as diphtheria. Diphtheria is a potentially life-threatening illness that primarily affects the respiratory system but can also infect other parts of the body. It is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected individual.
The subspecies cuniculi, or B. diphtheriae cuniculi, is specifically associated with rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). This strain of the bacterium is known to colonize the respiratory tract of rabbits and may cause respiratory disease in these animals. It is distinguished from other strains of B. diphtheriae based on genetic characteristics and its particular host preference.
In rabbits, B. diphtheriae cuniculi can cause a range of symptoms, including respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Additionally, affected rabbits may experience general signs of illness such as lethargy and loss of appetite. In severe cases, the infection can progress to cause complications such as pneumonia, sepsis, or even death.
Understanding the specific strain of Bacillus diphtheriae, such as B. diphtheriae cuniculi, is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and implementing appropriate control measures in rabbits.
