| Congresso Brasileiro de Microbiologia 2023 | Resumo: 973-2 | ||||
Resumo:Snakes in captivity require appropriate handling, adequate sanitary conditions, and a balanced diet. However, they are exposed to daily stress caused by confinement, leading to an imbalance in their immune system, which can result in signs and symptoms of bacterial infections. This study aimed to analyze the isolated microbiota from the oral cavity of non-venomous snakes of the Boidae family kept in captivity at the Zoobotanical Park of Teresina. For the collection of salivary secretions, six specimens were used, including three Boa constrictor species, one Epicrates maurus, one Epicrates crassus, and one Epicrates cenchria. The samples were obtained using swabs inserted into the oral cavities, then placed in saline solution and taken to the Microbiology laboratory at UESPI. They were later inoculated into MacConck, Salmonella Shiguella, and TSA (Tryptone Soya Broth + Agar) media. The samples were also subjected to a biochemical test for catalase production to investigate the presence of Gram-positive cocci. It was found that 16 isolates tested positive for the catalase test, and only 6 were negative. Based on the catalase test and the cellular and morphological description of the colonies, the following Gram-negative bacteria were identified: Proteus spp. (4%), Escherichia coli (32%), Pseudomonas spp. (18%), and Salmonella Shigella (14%). The isolated Gram-positive bacteria were Staphylococcus spp. (4%) and Gram-positive cocci (9%). The genus of only 4 colonies (18%) could not be identified due to insufficient testing. The observed stomatitis was correlated with the presence of bacteria belonging to the genera Salmonella Shigella and Pseudomonas spp. This finding highlights the importance of this study in understanding the oral microbiota of captive boas to aid in the prophylaxis and treatment of these wild animals. It is crucial to emphasize the high mortality rate among captive snakes due to frequently highly infectious and contagious diseases, affecting both other animals and their handlers. Professionals dealing with wild animals must adopt appropriate protective measures, such as the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), during the handling of these species. Additionally, the maintenance of the environments in which the animals are housed should meet hygienic conditions close to ideal and be free from factors that may cause stress. Palavras-chave: Boidae, Oral microbiota, Microorganisms, Snakes, Captivity | |||||