Turtle Parasites

Parasites In Turtles

Unlike other pets such as dogs, cats, birds and other reptiles, turtles are less prone to parasites, both internal and external. However, when they do occur,  parasitic infestations need to be taken seriously as they can lead to serious complications and even death when left untreated.

Pet turtles are particularly affected by internal parasites also known as endoparasites. The common internal parasites to expect in turtles and tortoises include nematodes, tapeworms, flukes, and flagellate organisms.

We will go through the symptoms to expect and the course of action to take. With proper sanitation, a nutritional diet, and regular physical exams, pet turtle keepers can keep parasitic problems to a minimum.

Also, if you suspect that your turtle has parasites contact your local herp vet as soon as possible.

Quick Reference Section

Common parasites that afflict pet turtles

Nematodes

The first parasite we will look at is nematodes. These are among the most common parasites you will find in both turtles and tortoises. Nematodes are endoparasites (meaning they are found inside the turtle).

Nematodes are more common among large communities of turtles. This parasite is comparable to the common roundworm which infects mammals including humans.

Nematodes are passed on from one turtle to another through fecal droppings. When a healthy turtle comes into contact with the fecal matter of an affected turtle, the nematode eggs can be transferred to the healthy turtle.

These eggs later hatch and develop into larvae which later develop into adult worms. These worms reside in the turtle’s digestive tract where they live and reproduce.

The eggs of this parasite leave the turtle when the turtle passes fecal matter. These deposited eggs end up in neighboring turtles thus spreading the parasitic infection.

Symptoms of a serious infestation include vomiting of worms, diarrhea, and weight loss.  If you notice these symptoms, it is best to consult your vet who will proceed to diagnose your turtle. The vet will examine a fecal sample under a microscope. This way the worms can be properly identified.

The doctor will prescribe a treatment for the turtle. The turtle is generally treated with the oral administration of an antiparasitic drug. The dosage is determined based on the weight of the turtle. A common antiparasitic drug prescribed is fenbendazole.

Tapeworms

These endoparasites are known as cestodes and affect all types of animals including mammals and reptiles. The type of tapeworms that affect reptiles including turtles is hermaphroditic and non-host specific.

Generally in turtles, tapeworms aren’t serious and infestations are uncommon since the parasite needs an intermediate host. With proper care, tapeworm infestations rarely happen.

However, they do occur. You may notice what appears to be moving grains of rice in the turtle’s fecal matter.  These are actually segments of tapeworms. Also, the turtle may show weight loss. Since infections are usually mild, you may not witness any of these physical symptoms.

Diagnosis of turtle tapeworm is tricky as tapeworm eggs aren’t shed as frequently in fecal matter. If you do notice a thin white translucent string-like worm, you can place it in a tiny container with some rubbing alcohol for the vet to examine.

As with any internal parasitic worm, tapeworms can be eradicated using dewormers. However, an overdose can lead to serious problems and even fatality.

Your herp vet will weigh the turtle and prescribe doses to it according to the weight. Praziquantel is quite effective for the treatment of tapeworm infestation in turtles.

Flukes

This is another parasite that is not uncommon among captive-bred turtles. Fluke worms are also known as trematodes and they can be found in the intestines of reptiles including turtles. They can also infect other organs including the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Except for blood flukes that are found exclusively in sea turtles, flukes rarely cause death. Flukes can be diagnosed by finding their eggs in fecal matter.

Treatments include the oral administration of dewormers such as praziquantel or fenbendazole. As with other treatments already mentioned, the dosage must match the turtle’s weight.

Flagellate organisms

These are protozoans. They are worm-like organisms that can be found in the intestinal tract of several reptiles including aquatic turtles and tortoises.

Generally when present in moderate numbers they are benign. It is only when flagellate organisms such as Trichomonas are found in large numbers, that you need to worry.

Symptoms of severe trichomonas infestation include weight loss, dehydration, diarrhea, and the passing of undigested food.

A herp vet can examine the presence of flagellated organisms in the fecal matter of the turtle and decide the course of treatment needed.

The most common treatment for severe infestation is oral administration of metronidazole. This drug, however, has the negative side effect of killing beneficial microorganisms as well.

An adverse increase in flagellate organisms may be down to dietary deficiencies. High sugar intake can also cause increased levels of flagellate organisms.

It is not advisable for fruits to be a staple in your turtle’s diet. Offer fruits only as treats. Other causes of flagellate organism infestation include overcrowding and excessive heating.

Ensure the enclosure isn’t overheated. It’s a good idea for heat lamps to be off during the night.

Symptoms of a parasitic infection

While it is true that different parasitic infections manifest in many different ways, here are some common symptoms to watch out for.

• Dehydration
• Diarrhea
• Passing undigested food
• Vomiting
• Weight loss

If you notice two or more of these symptoms, then your turtle may have a parasitic infection. Even just one of these symptoms is a cause for worry. I believe it’s always best to contact a veterinarian when unsure.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect that your pet turtle has parasites, it is best to have a herp vet examine it. Usually, the vet must examine a sample of the turtle’s fecal matter under a microscope.

This microscopic examination should help the vet to identify the culprit and prescribe the right treatment. While dewormers are prescribed for most internal parasites, it is unwise to try to deworm your turtle without consulting a vet as wrong dosages can kill the turtle. The right dosage is calculated using the turtle’s weight.

Tapeworms and flukes are generally treated with praziquantel or fenbendazole. Protozoans are generally treated with metronidazole. And nematodes are usually treated with fenbendazole.

Small worms in the tank

It is not uncommon to notice what appear to be tiny black worms in the turtle’s tank. These wriggly little worms may look nasty but they generally cause your turtle no harm.

They are most likely insect larva and can be found in stagnant puddles as well. They may also be annelids, particularly detritus worms. These tiny worms aren’t harmful and fish even feed on them. These may also resemble tiny white worms in the turtle tank.

These tiny worms in the water are generally harmless. If they wiggle a lot and are active then they may just be harmless detritus worms or planaria. You’ll most likely notice them when you clean out the filter.

They are more common in turtle tanks with river pebbles or gravel as the space between the stones allow for organic waste to build up out of sight. The worms thrive on organic waste.

It is important to remember that eventually, every large tank will have small invertebrates living in them. If you want to get rid of them, you can use a much larger filter, replace the filter media regularly, and change the water in the tank more frequently. Also, never leave uneaten food in the water.

A quick fix is to scrub down the tank with a bleach solution and clean the filter and the substrate with a bleach solution.

Conclusion

Turtles and tortoises are less susceptible to parasites as other pets are  (including mammals, birds and even other reptiles). As such, your turtle can go through its entire life without having to deal with parasitic infections.

Regardless of this, there are several internal parasites that can harm chelonians. When left untreated, these parasites can cause severe problems.

If you suspect that your turtle is dealing with parasitic problems, it is best to contact your local herp/exotic veterinarian. With the right treatment, your turtle should be parasite-free in no time at all.

If you have any questions or extra information, kindly leave a comment. We look forward to hearing from you.

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