Detection of haemoparasites in selected Australian reptiles using archived blood smears
Research article published in Parasitology research (2026)
Abstract
Haemoparasites of Australian reptiles remain poorly documented, with much of the available knowledge derived from studies conducted several decades ago. Using archived blood smears, this study examined the occurrence, morphology, and host associations of haemoprotozoans in two gecko species (Gehyra dubia and Hemidactylus frenatus), two freshwater turtle species (Emydura macquarii krefftii and Muchelys latisternum), and an associated turtle leech (Placobdelloides bancrofti) from northern Queensland, Australia. A total of 332 gecko blood smears were examined, with no blood parasites detected, suggesting that infections were absent, rare, or below the detection threshold at the time of sampling. In contrast, protistan parasites were detected in 93% of 15 freshwater turtles examined, with high prevalence of both haemogregarines and trypanosomes and frequent co-infections. Morphological characteristics and developmental stages of haemogregarines were consistent with the genus Haemogregarina, and similar with Haemogregarina clelandi, representing a new geographic record. Trypanosome infections occurred as multiple trypomastigote morphotypes consistent with previous descriptions of Trypanosoma chelodinae and related forms. All 38 leech crop smears examined were positive for Trypanosoma spp., predominantly at the epimastigote stage, supporting the role of P. bancrofti as a vector of turtle trypanosomes in Australian freshwater systems. This study highlights marked contrasts in haemoprotozoan occurrence between terrestrial and aquatic reptiles, reinforces the importance of leeches in turtle parasite transmission, and demonstrates the value of archived blood smears for establishing historical baselines and addressing knowledge gaps in Australian reptile parasitology.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Summary
Haemoparasites of Australian reptiles remain poorly documented, with much of the available knowledge derived from studies conducted several decades ago.
Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy
This study examined archived blood smears from Australian reptiles — two gecko species, two freshwater turtle species, and the turtle leech Placobdelloides bancrofti — for haemoparasites. No parasites were found in 332 gecko smears, while 93% of turtles had protistan infections (haemogregarines and trypanosomes). All 38 leech crop smears were positive for Trypanosoma spp., supporting P. bancrofti as a vector for turtle trypanosomes. This article is relevant to ASH's domain only insofar as it concerns leech biology and ecology; it documents a leech species acting as a disease vector in wildlife, not as a therapeutic agent. It has no bearing on hirudotherapy practice, safety, or the leech secretome's medicinal properties.
Citation
Detection of haemoparasites in selected Australian reptiles using archived blood smears
Bracken R et al. · Parasitology research, 2026
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