A survey of 92 captive-animal samples at Songkhla Zoo detected Chlamydiales-related DNA in one asymptomatic giant Asian pond turtle (1.09%). The sequence matched AY845420.1 and diverged from recognized pathogenic species. This is preliminary molecular detection, not proof of viable infection, transmission, or human risk.
Key findings
- One asymptomatic giant Asian pond turtle was 16S-positive, for 1.09% detection (95% CI 0.03-5.91%). Its sequence had 100% nucleotide identity with Chlamydiales bacterium AY845420.1 and diverged from recognized pathogenic species.
Why this matters globally
Sequence data from zoo animals fill a gap for difficult-to-culture organisms and can guide cross-species surveillance, but repeated sampling and higher genomic resolution are needed for epidemiology.
Thai researcher contribution
Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya veterinary researchers and Songkhla Zoo jointly sampled and analyzed organisms in a Thai conservation setting.
Limitations to consider
This single-zoo sample was small by animal group, with one positive and a wide interval. PCR detects DNA rather than viable organisms; no culture, whole genome, serology, or longitudinal sampling was performed, and partial 16S can have limited species resolution.