Additional instances of snake mite (Ophionyssus natricis) parasitism on sleepy lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) in South Australia

The snake mite, Ophionyssus natricis (Acari: Macronyssidae) is an ectoparasite of veterinary significance because infestations can cause abnormal shedding and anaemia in its hosts. The snake mite has also been implicated in the transmission of pathogens. In this study, 59 sleepy lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) were caught at a study site in the vicinity of Mt. Mary in the Mid North region of South Australia and Hallet Cove Conservation Park in Adelaide, and examined for the presence of snake mites. About 10% of the lizards were found to be infested by snake mites. This study confirms that sleepy lizards are competent hosts of this ectoparasite and presents additional distribution records for South Australia.

Automated summary

This study identified snake mite infestations in 10% of sleepy lizards in certain areas of South Australia, confirming their competence as hosts for the ectoparasite. The findings also contributed additional distribution records for South Australia.