Molecular evidence of the high prevalence of Anaplasma species in camel populations in Pakistan

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Anaplasma species, impacting livestock and wildlife worldwide. Despite previous studies on the molecular epidemiology of Anaplasma in camels across various countries, limited data exist for Pakistan. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of Anaplasma species in camels from Bahawalpur, Pakistan, using molecular techniques. A total of 94 blood samples were collected from camels via jug- ular venipuncture and subjected to DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed targeting the 16S rRNA gene, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The overall prevalence of Anaplasma species was found to be 40.4%, with 38 samples testing positive. BLAST analysis revealed 17 isolates as A. capra, 14 as A. platys, 3 as A. ovis, 2 as A. marginale, and 2 as A. camelii. Phylogenetic analysis using the Maximum Likelihood method grouped the identified Anaplasma species into four distinct clades, with A. capra and A. marginale showing a close genetic relation- ship. Univariable statistical analysis revealed no significant associations between Anaplasma prevalence and host factors such as: sex (P=0.5457), age (P=0.464), body condition (P=0.3269), pregnancy status (P=0.7530), or parity (P=0.8057). The results suggest that camels could act as potential reservoirs for multiple Anaplasma species, contributing to the epidemiological complexity of anaplasmosis in Pakistan. This study provides the first molecular characterization of Anaplasma species in Pakistani camels, highlighting the need for further research on transmission dynamics and poten- tial zoonotic implications. Enhanced surveillance and preventive strategies are recommended to mitigate the impact of anaplasmosis in camel populations and associated livestock.