Parasitic Fauna of Captive Snakes (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Northeastern Argentina

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the status of parasitic infections of colubrid snakes living in serpentariums in northeastern Argentina. Specimens were analyzed through clinical examination and coproparasitological surveys. In cases of death, specimens were necropsied, and histopathological exams were performed to determine its cause(s). Out of 30 specimens examined from 12 different species, parasites were found in 25 of them (83%). Nematodes were most common, with rhabdiasid and ascaridid helminths accounting for 57% and 40% of all infections, respectively. Further, the ascarid Hexametra boddaertii was identified in a specimen of Erythrolamprus aesculapii. Coccidian, digenean, and pentastomid parasites were also found less frequently. We identified the pentastomids Raillietiella furcocerca and Cephalobaena tetrapoda in specimens of Pseudablabes patagoniensis. We revealed systemic lesions induced by endoparasites, including enteritis and detachment of the gut mucosa by ascarids, tissue granulomas by rhabdiasids, and pulmonary microhemorrhages by pentastomids. Additionally, rhabdiasid-induced lesions in Duvernoy's gland were shown for the first time. Regarding ectoparasites, we identified the tick Amblyomma dissimile in a specimen of P. patagoniensis. On the whole, this study provides relevant information about the prevalence and pathophysiological effects of parasites on captive colubrids and paves the way for treatment strategies of such infections.