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Fungal carriage in lizards
I B Enweani1, J C Uwajeh, C S Bello
1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Edo State University Ekpoma, Nigeria.
Mycoses
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Fungi, including the pathogenic Basidiobolus haptosporus, were found in the intestines of 56% of common garden lizards (Agama agama). These lizards may transmit fungal infections to humans due to their proximity.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections pose a threat to both animal and human health.
- The common garden lizard (Agama agama) is a prevalent species in Nigerian environments, living in close proximity to human populations.
- Understanding the fungal inhabitants of Agamid lizards is crucial for assessing potential zoonotic disease transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and types of fungi present in the gastrointestinal tract of Agama agama.
- To identify potentially pathogenic fungi that could pose a risk to human health.
Main Methods:
- Fungal cultures were performed on intestinal contents from 200 Agama agama specimens.
- Isolated fungi were identified to the species level.
Main Results:
- Basidiobolus haptosporus, a cause of subcutaneous zygomycosis, was the most prevalent fungus, found in 56% of lizards.
- Other fungi identified included Aspergillus spp. (12%), Candida spp. (6%), Penicillium spp. (6%), and Fusarium spp. (6%).
- Mucor spp. were found exclusively in 4% of male lizards. No external fungal infections were observed.
Conclusions:
- Agama agama harbors a variety of fungi, notably the pathogenic Basidiobolus haptosporus.
- The close proximity of these lizards to humans suggests a potential role in the transmission of fungal diseases.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific transmission dynamics and public health implications.