October 2021: The fungus Nannizziopsis barbatae was detected in two wild freshwater turtles with skin disease found earlier this year in the Sydney region.
This fungus has previously been identified in lizards in Australia, but this is the first reported detection of this fungus in turtles, globally. Investigators are working in collaboration with government biosecurity and environment authorities in NSW in response to this detection.
To help us understand the significance of these findings, we ask that you look out for unusual skin lesions in wild or captive freshwater turtles and report to:
Remember that the care of any sick or injured wildlife must be referred to an authorised wildlife rehabilitation organisation or veterinarian. For more information, go to the WHA Contact Details page, expand the tab for your state/territory, and click on the link to 'Injured Wildlife' under details of the Environment Representative.