Oxyurid Infection in Indian Star Tortoises (Geochelone elegans)

Abstract

The Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans) is a vulnerable terrestrial chelonian endemic to the Indian subcontinent and increasingly encountered in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facilities due to illegal trade and habitat disturbance. Parasitic infections, particularly gastrointestinal nematodes, represent an important but often overlooked health concern in both captive and rescued tortoises. The present study reports the detection of oxyurid infection in Indian Star Tortoises during routine health surveillance conducted at the Wildlife Research and Training Centre, Gorewada, Nagpur, Maharashtra, between April 2023 and March 2025. A total of fifteen tortoises were examined, comprising individuals rescued from illegal trade, urban conflict situations, and temporary shelters. Fresh faecal samples were collected non-invasively and examined using standard faecal flotation techniques with saturated sodium chloride solution. Oxyurid eggs were detected in six out of fifteen samples (40%). The eggs were oval to ellipsoidal, thick-shelled, operculated, and morphologically consistent with Tachygonetria or Pharyngodon species. All infected tortoises were clinically asymptomatic, showing normal appetite, activity, and body condition, suggesting low to moderate parasitic burden. The findings highlight the endemic occurrence of oxyurid infections in captive Indian Star Tortoises and underscore the importance of routine parasitological screening, enclosure hygiene, and preventive veterinary care. Regular surveillance is essential to prevent parasite persistence, reduce reinfection risk, and ensure the health and conservation management of this threatened species.