First characterization of the bacteriological profile of the Mediterranean Pond Turtle <Mauremys leprosa> (Schweigger, 1812) in Reghaïa Lake, Algeria

The Mediterranean Pond Turtle Mauremys leprosa, a ‘Near Threatened’ species, is poorly studied in Algeria and no data exists on its bacteriological carriage. However, knowledge about the microbiota of wildlife species is essential to develop holistic conservation approaches that integrate microbial health, habitat preservation, and species-specific needs. Recent concerns regarding the potential transmission of zoonotic pathogens by turtles have been highlighted in several studies. In this context, the current study analyzed the aerobic cloacal/fecal bacteria associated with the Mediterranean Pond Turtles, which were collected from Reghaïa Lake. Samples collected from 24 turtles allowed the identification of 11 bacterial genera. Salmonella was the most frequent isolated genus with a percentage of 22 of the total isolates, followed by Escherichia and Enterobacter. The diversity of genera isolated from juveniles is relatively low compared with adults. Turtle-bacterial genera relationships were tested by logistic regressions and redundancy analysis (RDA). Results of RDA indicate a statistically significant association (p-value <0.01) between morphological features and bacterial genera frequency. Our results confirm the reputation of freshwater turtles as a reservoir of several zoonotic bacterial pathogens. This microbiota analysis offers a non-invasive, multi-faceted approach to conserving endangered species by linking health, habitat, reproduction, and ecological dynamics. This highlights the importance of establishing an epidemiological surveillance system and an awareness program must be carried out to reduce the health risks associated with owning pet turtles.