A severe, proliferative, fungal skin disease, caused by Nannizziopsis barbatae, was first detected in free-living reptiles in Qld, NSW and WA in 2020. The disease has been confirmed in focal outbreaks, for example Eastern water dragon populations in Brisbane City parklands. Diagnosis is based on skin changes and confirmed by PCR and culture. Until recently, reports of infection with Nannizziopsis barbatae have been restricted to captive reptiles. Further information is available via the WHA Fact Sheet: Pathogenic skin fungi in Australian reptiles.
Nannizziopsis is known to cause fatal disease in a wide range of reptiles. The infection is contagious through physical contact and through the environment, therefore best practice biosecurity measures are recommended.
How you can help: If you come across any suspect cases, we encourage you to contact your State/Territory WHA Coordinator and Environment Representative.
University of Queensland researchers are encouraging the public to provide photos or videos of water dragons with skin lesions via . See the for more information.
Peterson NR et al (2020). Cross-continental emergence of Nannizziopsis barbatae disease may threaten wild Australian lizards. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 1-12.