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Detection of Ophidiomyces ophidiicola in a Wild Burmese Python (Python bivittatus) in Hong Kong SAR, China

Abstract Ophidiomycosis (also referred to as snake fungal disease) is an emerging infectious disease caused by Ophidiomyces ophidiicola (Oo). PCR was used to detect Oo in a Burmese python (Python bivittatus) with skin lesions submitted to a rescue center in Hong Kong. This is the first report of this disease in this species. More research is needed in Asia to determine the prevalence of this fungus, its relationship with other species, and its ecological importance. These findings also highlight the significant role wildlife rescue centers play in monitoring wildlife diseases and ecosystem health.