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

Physalopteriasis is parasitic disease caused by nematode infection from the genus Physaloptera, in the order Spirurida and family Physalopteridae that frequently founds in the stomach or intestine of reptilian host especially snake. The present study aims to reports pathological conditions associated with Physaloptera infection in javan spitting cobra snake (Naja sputatrix). Ten adult javan spitting cobra snakes (Naja sputatrix) were rescued from poachers and kept at Wild Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Center at Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. In addition, fecal samples from all were collected and examined. Parasite identification using sedimentation method was done for egg stage in fecal samples and carmine staining method for adult stage. Necropsy method was applied in a dead snake and the internal organs especially stomach were found to be filled with nematodes Physaloptera. The worms were firmly attached to the gastric mucosa causing hemorraghic lesion, thickening and erosive inflammatory foci. Since diagnosing physalopteriasis in wild animal hosts depends on the identification of eggs in the fecal sample or on the presence of adult worms attached to the mucosa of the upper digestive tract, the parasitic disease control measures should be strengthened. Present study as the first report will alert the pet reptile owners and wildlife veterinarians worldwide especially in Indonesia to the possibility of chronic pathological conditions associated with Physaloptera parasite infection in various reptiles.