Roundworms in Amphibians
Pseudocapillaroides xenopi Infection
The roundworm Pseudocapillaroides xenopi is parasite from the Capillariidae family that causes skin complications such as sloughing and irritation in amphibians. The parasitic infection is not fatal in and of itself, but can lower the amphibian's immunity and make it more susceptible to secondary infections, which can often be fatal.
Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Skin sores
- Blotchy, rough, and pitted skin (sometimes gray in color)
- Sloughing of the skin
Causes
The roundworm Pseudocapillaroides xenopi is shed with the skin of infected amphibians and is then transmitted in the surrounding water.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will reach a diagnosis by collecting skin scrapings from the affected amphibians and examining them under a microscope for the small, white roundworms.
Treatment
Your veterinarian may advise treatment with drugs used to destroy parasitic worms called antihelmintics. Follow the dosage and treatment schedule prescribed by your veterinarian strictly.
Prevention
Maintaining hygienic living conditions for your amphibian and frequently changing its water will ensure that the skin shedding does not promote the disease.
