Seasonal variation in ecdysis process and parasitic prevalence in Indian Rock Python (Python molurus)

Abstract

The effects of feed and environmental factors have been studied in ecdysis process in Indian rock python. Ten experimental animals were observed in captivity and it was noted that ecdysis was more rapid during summer compared to winter. Furthermore, ticks and mites were recorded during both the seasons while internal parasite species belong to genus Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus were recorded from Python molurus. Higher temperature and humidity accelerated the ecdysis process.