Pathogenicity of Strains of the IJKNQR Group of Avian Mycoplasmas for Turkey Embryos and Poults

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Abstract
Strains of mycoplasmas isolated from turkey embryos and identified as belonging to the IJKNQR group of avian mycoplasmas produced lethal infections in experimentally exposed turkey embryos. Some strains produced exudative airsacculitis in experimentally exposed poults. Of 4 strains used to inoculate poults, 2 produced moderate airsacculitis, 1 produced a slight airsacculitis and 1 had little or no effect on turkey poult air sacs. Microscopic examination revealed that the air-sac lesions resulting from infection with these mycoplasmas were similar to those resulting from infections with Mycoplasma gallisepticum, M. meleagridis and M. synoviae. Apparently some strains of the IJKNQR group of avian mycoplasmas are pathogenic for turkeys.