Distribution of Pseudomonas and Aeromonas species isolated from different snake species and determination of antibiotic resistance profiles

Snakes have held symbolic significance for humans since ancient times and are indispensable parts of the ecosystem. However, in recent years, viewing reptiles and snakes as companion animals has brought about some potential risks. Pathogens of a zoonotic nature, such as Pseudomonas and Aeromonas, can be present in the normal microflora of snakes and may spread to the surrounding environment. The aim of this study is to determine the isolation rates of Pseudomonas and Aeromonas agents in snakes housed in indoor facilities and to evaluate their antibiotic resistance profiles. For this purpose, cloacal swab samples were collected from 13 different species of 100 snakes in zoos located in Istanbul and its surroundings. These samples were then examined for Pseudomonas and Aeromonas pathogens at the Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Microbiology. Among the examined samples, a total of 47 isolates belonging to the Pseudomonas genus and 7 isolates belonging to the Aeromonas genus were identified. The isolates from the Pseudomonas genus were further classified as 22 (46.8%) P. aeruginosa, 23 (48.9%) P. putida, and 2 (4.2%) Pseudomonas spp. The isolates from the Aeromonas genus were identified as 3 (42.8%) A. caviae, 3 (42.8%) A. veronii, and 1 (14.2%) A. hydrophila. The sensitivity of the isolates was tested for 21 antibiotics, and none of the isolates were found to be resistant to these antibiotics. However, a total of 21 isolates were identified as moderately sensitive to enrofloxacin [9 (40.9%) P. aeruginosa, 10 (43.4%) P. putida, 2 (66.6%) A. caviae]. Additionally, 9 isolates [8 (34.7%) P. putida, 1 (4.3%) P. aeruginosa] were determined to be moderately sensitive to meropenem. Worldwide, studies on Pseudomonas and Aeromonas species in snakes are limited. However, the zoonotic characteristics and antibiotic resistance of these pathogens should not be overlooked.