Exploring Aeromonas dhakensis in Aldabra giant tortoises: a debut report and genetic characterization

Aeromonas dhakensis (A. dhakensis), an emerging pathogen with global significance, has been identified for the first time in Aldabra giant tortoises, expanding its known host spectrum. The study, led by Zhao et al., isolated a strain (HN-1) from a deceased tortoise and characterized it using clinical observation, MALDI-TOF/MS, and gene sequencing. The strain exhibited seven virulence genes and caused severe hemorrhage in mice, with an LD50 of 2.05 × 10^7 CFU/mL. It also showed resistance to multiple antibiotics, including amoxicillin and penicillin. These findings highlight the potential threat of A. dhakensis to both wildlife and human health, underscoring the need for One Health surveillance and further research to mitigate its spread across environments.

Zhao, C., Qin, P., Li, S., Chen, Z., Wang, T., Liang, Q., He, W., Peng, Z., Yang, Y., Peng, Z., & Li, Y. (2024). Exploring Aeromonas dhakensis in Aldabra giant tortoises: a debut report and genetic characterization. BMC Microbiology, 24(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12866-024-03203-w