Molecular Identification of Entamoeba spp. From Captive Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus) in Indonesia.

BACKGROUND

Infection of Entamoeba (amoebiasis) in the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus), a Bornean endemic and endangered species of non-human primates (NHPs), has not been reported in Indonesia.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify Entamoeba from captive proboscis monkeys at Surabaya Zoo, Indonesia.

METHOD: Twenty fecal samples were collected from captive proboscis monkeys in the study area. Fecal samples were examined through coprological and molecular methods.

FINDINGS: The prevalence of Entamoeba spp. by coprological and molecular techniques was 90% (18/20) and 100% (20/20), respectively, with two species identified: E. coli and E. moshkovskii. Molecular analysis confirmed Entamoeba spp. and E. coli infection, which have high genetic similarity to isolates previously reported in European countries and Asia.

CONCLUSION

This study provides the first documentation of Entamoeba spp., E. coli, and E. moshkovskii from the captive proboscis monkeys in Indonesia. This data supports ex situ health management and assesses potential cross-species transmission risks.