Identifying common infections....

[abacabb]

What are the most common species of worm, parasite, and bacteria that infect tree frogs?

I wanted to research them so I can see what they might look like under the microscope.

[tgampper]

What are the most common species of worm, parasite, and bacteria that infect tree frogs?

I wanted to research them so I can see what they might look like under the microscope.

Paul is doing considerable research on frog diseases, check out his frog first aid sheet located in the Site navigation menu on the left.

[Paul Rust]

Thanks Terry, means a lot coming from you.

Abacabb, it is almost impossible for us amatures to identify the species, perticularly with bacteria because many look alike and can only be identified by the gasses that they respirate and other just as difficult things. Even when the "pros" culture bacteria they usually only identify them as Gram positive or Gram negative, Gram negative being the hardest to kill because they have a double cell wall and are resistant to antibiotics. We can do this also with a Gram's stain kit. Get a book like "Understanding Reptile Parasites" and have fun. When it comes to common parasites in our frogs the species is not important for treatment. You only need to know whether it is a worm or a protazoa.

Edit:
A word of caution. If you are serious about working with these things you need to get familiar with basic lab techniques and protocols and have the proper PPE (personal protective equipment). These are live diseases and you can get yourself in a lot of trouble really fast if you are careless.