Characterization and Causal Investigations of an Alopecia Syndrome in Australian Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus)

A distinctive alopecia syndrome was observed in a colony of Australian fur seals, particularly affecting juvenile females, characterized by symmetrical hair loss due to hair shaft fractures. Investigations showed no infections or skin pathology differences between affected and unaffected seals. However, affected seals had significantly lower tyrosine and zinc levels, potentially increasing hair brittleness, and higher levels of heavy metals and pollutants, suggesting they foraged in more contaminated environments.