Molecular detection of novel herpesviruses and adenoviruses in two species of Australian freshwater turtles

Abstract Cutaneous lesions were observed in a wild population of freshwater turtles during routine disease surveillance at Alligator Creek, Townsville, Australia. Previous attempts to identify the causative agent these unsuccessful; however, existing evidence suggests viral etiology. To further investigate events, blood samples and lesion, oral cloacal swabs collected from 128 two locations (Alligator Creek Ross River) screened for herpesvirus, adenovirus, poxvirus papillomavirus by polymerase chain reaction. We detected three novel herpesviruses (chelid herpesvirus 1–3) as well adenoviruses (saw-shelled turtle adenovirus 1–3). Phylogenetic analyses showed that formed distinct clade with tumour-associated chelonid alphaherpesvirus 5 ( Scutavirus chelonidalpha5 ) within subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae . The clustered members genus Testadenovirus Although could not be linked occurrence cutaneous lesions, characterisation will help provide better insights into their clinical, epidemiological conservation significance.