Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2013
Abstract
Background: Sarcocystis species are protozoan parasites with a wide host range including snakes. Although there were several reports of Sarcocytis species in snakes, their distribution and prevalence are still not fully explored. Methods: In this study, fecal specimens of several snake species in Malaysia were examined for the presence of Sarcocystis by PCR of 18S rDNA sequence. Microscopy examination of the fecal specimens for sporocysts was not carried as it was difficult to determine the species of the infecting Sarcocystis. Results: Of the 28 snake fecal specimens, 7 were positive by PCR. BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses of the amplified 18S rDNA sequences revealed the snakes were infected with either S. nesbitti, S. singaporensis, S. zuoi or undefined Sarcocystis species. Conclusion: This study is the first to report Sarcocystis infection in a cobra, and S. nesbitti in a reticulated python.
Keywords
Definitive host, Sarcocystis, Snake, 18S rDNA, Phylogenetic analysis
Divisions
fac_med
Publication Title
Parasites & Vectors
Volume
6
Publisher
BMC
Additional Information
Lau, Yee Ling Chang, Phooi Yee Subramaniam, Vellayan Ng, Yit Han Mahmud, Rohela Ahmad, Arine Fadzlun Fong, Mun Yik