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Fungal dermatitis in captive pinnipeds
C G Pollock1, B Rohrbach, E C Ramsay
1Department of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine of Tennessee, Knoxville 37901-1071, USA.
Summary
Fungal dermatitis in seals was linked to pool water conditions. High chlorine levels and warm temperatures in captive environments contributed to skin lesions in gray and harbor seals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Marine Mammal Health
- Mycology
Background:
- Fungal dermatitis is a significant health concern in captive marine mammals.
- Understanding environmental risk factors is crucial for preventing disease outbreaks in pinnipeds.
Observation:
- Six pinnipeds, including gray seals (Halichoerus grypus) and harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), were diagnosed with fungal dermatitis between 1992 and 1994.
- Clinical signs included erythematous, thickened, and alopecic skin lesions on the face and flippers, particularly around the nail beds.
Findings:
- Key fungal pathogens isolated were Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Malassezia spp., and Yarrowia (Candida) lipolytica.
- Excessive chlorination of pool water and elevated water temperatures were identified as the primary environmental factors contributing to the development of fungal dermatitis.
Implications:
- These findings highlight the importance of water quality management in captive seal environments.
- Recommendations for maintaining optimal water parameters are essential for preventing and managing fungal skin infections in pinnipeds.