High prevalence ofspp. and nematode infections infrom Mojokerto City, Indonesia.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Wild-caught Javanese keelback water snakes () are at a significant risk of parasitic infections, including various helminths, with potential public health implications. However, comprehensive data on helminth infection prevalence and diversity in this species remain limited. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and diversity of parasitic helminths in wild-caught Javanese keelback water snakes from Mojokerto City, Indonesia. METHODS: A total of 23 snakes were collected, euthanized, and examined for parasitic helminths. The helminth stages were identified using microscopic fecal examination and carmine staining methods. RESULTS: Helminth infections were detected in 95.65% (22/23) of the examined snakes. A total of six helminth taxa were identified, including four nematode genera (spp.,spp.,spp., andspp.), one nematode order (Oxyurida), and one cestode genus (spp.). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the role of Javanese keelback water snake in parasitic disease transmission within ecosystems and underscores the importance of identifying parasite biodiversity in wild-caught reptiles to control illegal reptile trade and mitigate public health risks, including zoonotic potential.