Skin Fungus on Reptiles

Reptiles are covered with scales and scutes, which is a distinguishing characteristic that sets them apart from amphibians and other vertebrates. Scales are dry structures that help conserve water and protect their body from injury. The size, shape and color of reptile scales varies greatly from species to species, and while strong and resilient, reptiles scales are prone to fungal infections in captivity.

  1. Identification

    • Fungal infections on reptile skin are easy to identify and treat. Fungal infections appear in many forms on reptile scales depending on the type of scale, cause and duration of the infection. Common symptoms include small blisters on scales, disfigured scales, small growths between scales and general discoloration of reptile skin.

    Dangers

    • In addition to causing stress and affecting the vitality of infected reptiles, fungal infections can become systemic and spread to other parts of your pet's body. Wounded or weakened scales can allow secondary diseases and injuries to pass through the damaged area of skin where the fungal infection is developing. Animals with a fungal infection can also spread it to other reptile pets through contact.

    Causes

    • Fungal infections are most commonly caused by too much moisture in a reptile's environment. Humid and wet enclosures with poor ventilation are an ideal environment for fungi to develop on reptile skin. Substrate that remains moist is the most common cause of fungal infections on the ventral surface of reptile skin, according to VMS Herp.

    Treatment

    • Place your reptile in a dry enclosure and take your pet to a qualified veterinarian as soon as you recognize symptoms of a fungal infection. Veterinarians can prescribe several anti-fungal medications that will quickly treat the infection and restore your reptile's health and appearance. It is important to get a professional opinion to ensure that the fungal infection has not made its way inside your reptile and caused internal problems that are not so easy to identify.