ABSTRACT

Parasitic nematode infections pose a serious health threat to captive amphibian populations. This study compares the efficacy of ivermectin versus hygiene as treatments for nematode infection of the Túngara frog (Engystomops pustulosus). Each of the 24 animals was randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group received a 2 mg/kg dose of ivermectin, and the other one received daily substrate changes. The differences between the two groups were found to be negligible, suggesting that adequate habitat maintenance might be sufficient to prevent infection by Strongyloides intestinal nematodes in the Túngara frog.