Seroprevalence responses to RHDV variants in wild European rabbits: evidence of resilience in the Iberian Peninsula

Abstract

The emergence and spread of the main genotypes of Lagovirus europaeus (GI.1 and GI.2), the rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) have had severe consequences for the conservation of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), a keystone species within the Iberian Mediterranean ecosystem. Understanding seroprevalence in wild rabbit populations in response to RHDV outbreaks is crucial for estimating the proportion of individuals capable of surviving such events. This study investigates the serological and demographic responses to the circulation of GI.1 and GI.2 genotypes by analysing data from 18 wild rabbit populations surveyed in 2002 and 2021, approximately a decade after each strain’s emergence. Results show a significantly higher seroprevalence during the GI.2 genotypes period (0.58 vs. 0.44). However, our analysis did not reveal any significant relationship between seroprevalence and population abundance after either outbreak. These findings suggest resilience in wild rabbit populations to RHDV, with critical implications for disease management and conservation. The study stresses the need for continued monitoring to mitigate RHDV’s impact and support the preservation of rabbit populations and associated ecosystems.