Identification and characterization of <i>Serratia nematophila</i> and <i>Acinetobacter guillouiae</i> from putrid-skin disease lesions in farmed Chinese spiny frog ( <i>Quasipaa spinosa</i> )

Frogs are among the most widely distributed amphibians globally. The Chinese spiny frog (<i>Quasipaa spinosa</i>) is a unique amphibious species endemic to China and holds significant economic value in aquaculture. Effective disease prevention and control are crucial for the sustainable development of frog breeding industries and the conservation of genetic resources. In this study, we investigated a putrid-skin disease outbreak at a frog farm in Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, Eastern China. We isolated and identified the causative pathogenic bacteria and analyzed their pathogenicity through artificial infection experiments and histopathological examinations. This research provides the first data on the pathogenic characteristics of <i>Serratia nematophila</i> and <i>Acinetobacter guillouiae</i> in <i>Q. spinosa</i>. Furthermore, we assessed the antibiotic susceptibility of these two pathogens, revealing their multidrug resistance. Our findings offer a scientific foundation for the accurate diagnosis and control of putrid-skin disease in frogs, contributing to the preservation of <i>Q. spinosa</i> genetic resources.