M. Klaassen

Long distance avian migrants fail to bring 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1 into Australia for a second year in a row

The paper reports the continued absence of HPAI H5N1 lineage 2.3.4.4b and antibodies against it in migratory birds in Australia during October-December 2023.

Fending for oneself or partnering up: Competition between mixo- and heterotrophic ciliates under dynamic resource supply

This study examines how mixotrophic and heterotrophic ciliates compete under varying resource supply conditions, showing that population dynamics depend on species-specific traits and resource regimes.

Pervasive morphological responses to climate change in bird body and appendage size

This study analyzes morphological changes in bird body and appendage size across 5013 museum specimens to assess adaptive responses to climate change, finding widespread trends in size and shape shifts.

Wild birds' plight and role in the current bird flu panzootic

The paper estimates that millions of wild birds have died in the current bird flu panzootic, highlighting underreported mortality and its conservation implications.

Interplay between pollution and avian influenza virus infection risk in shorebirds and waterfowl

The paper investigates the effect of PFAS pollution on AIV infection risk in three bird species, finding no significant association but suggesting further research is needed.

Assessment of contaminants, health and survival of migratory shorebirds in natural versus artificial wetlands - the potential of wastewater treatment plants as alternative habitats

This study compares pollutant exposure, health, and survival of migratory shorebirds in natural and artificial wetlands, finding negligible differences and suggesting wastewater treatment plants could serve as viable habitats.

No evidence for HPAI H5N1 2.3.4.4b incursion into Australia in 2022

The paper reports no evidence of HPAI H5N1 2.3.4.4b in Australia from September to December 2022 in migratory birds.

Strong phylogenetic and ecological effects on host competency for avian influenza in Australian wild birds

The paper examines host phylogeny and ecological factors influencing avian influenza susceptibility in Australian wild birds, finding phylogeny is a key driver of susceptibility.

Australia as a global sink for the genetic diversity of avian influenza A virus

This study shows Australia acts as a global sink for avian influenza A virus diversity, with isolated circulation and high reassortment, distinct from Northern Hemisphere patterns.

Host age shapes virome abundance and diversity in birds

The paper examines how host age affects virome abundance and diversity in birds, finding higher viral diversity and abundance in juveniles compared to adults.

High levels of antibiotic resistance gene expression among birds living in a wastewater treatment plant

The paper assesses antibiotic resistance gene expression in birds across different habitats, finding higher levels in wastewater treatment plant birds.

Virome heterogeneity and connectivity in waterfowl and shorebird communities

The paper characterizes viromes of waterfowl and shorebirds, revealing 27 viral species, 24 novel, and highlighting virome connectivity and heterogeneity across host species.