First report of Physaloptera (Nematoda: Physalopteridae) parasitizing javan spitting cobra snake (Naja sputatrix) in Indonesia

A comprehensive study on the occurrence rate and morphology characteristics of the acanthocephalan parasite in Javan spitting cobra (Naja sputatrix) in Sidoarjo, Indonesia

“…The characteristics of the head and body shape, as well as the body size of the acanthocephalan parasite, were meticulously identified following established methodologies outlined by Bolette (1997), Goldberg and Bursey (2004), and Yudhana et al (2023). Therefore, to gather precise measurements, 30 acanthocephalans were strategically selected and evenly distributed among various anatomical regions, including muscles, viscera, and subcutaneous tissues (10 in each category).…”

“…Notably, a study conducted in Mojokerto city reported the identification of the cystacanth stage in the body cavity of painted bronze back tree snakes (D. pictus) and Asian vine snakes (A. prasina). Those studies' results highlighted predilection for various body cavities, including subcutaneous tissues, resulting in nodules as a pathological sign (Yudhana et al 2019;Yudhana et al 2023). A separate research effort in Sidoarjo city detailed the occurrence of acanthocephalans in X. piscator snakes, underscoring the potential for parasite transmission in snakes exhibiting similar body size and feeding behaviors (Audini et al 2017).…”

“…Some foods act as risk factors for acanthocephalan in the wild, known for their diverse diet encompassing rats, frogs, toads, lizards, and smaller non-venomous snakes (Edila et al 2023). This dietary diversity raises intriguing questions about the interplay between the snake's feeding habits and its susceptibility to acanthocephalan infections.…”

“…The increased prevalence of Javan spitting cobra snakes (Naja sputatrix F. Boie, 1827) being captured from the wild and frequently consumed in Indonesia highlights a critical concern regarding potential parasitic infections within this reptile species (Yudhana et al 2020;Edila et al 2023). Javan spitting cobra snakes are known for their wide distribution, commonly found in Java Island, Indonesia, from western to eastern regions, constituting their native habitat (Kurniawan et al 2021).…”

“…This pattern of acanthocephalan infestation has been documented in wild-caught snakes in Indonesia, encompassing Checkered keelback water snakes (Xenochropis piscator), Asian vine snakes (Ahaetulla prasina), and Painted bronzeback snakes (Dendrelaphis pictus). The presence of acanthocephalan cystacanths in these diverse snake species highlights the pervasiveness of this parasitic threat in the region (Audini et al 2017;Yudhana et al 2019;Yudhana et al 2023).…”