Saving Florida’s Iconic Pygmy Rattlesnake

SUMMARY: Researchers will study a new parasite decimating Florida pygmy rattlesnakes as a step toward control.

THE PROBLEM: Raillietiella orientalis (Ro) is an invasive crustacean parasite that is believed to be a major culprit responsible for the marked decline in Florida’s pygmy rattlesnake population. Snake fungal disease (SFD) is also a serious illness affecting snakes throughout the United States including pygmy rattlesnakes. Understanding more about Ro, including infection risk and disease susceptibility, could help wildlife managers and conservationists slow or stop the disease and save this iconic species.

THE PROJECT: The team will study both Ro and SFD in pygmy rattlesnakes. The project has two objectives: 
•    Determine if Ro is the primary cause of the rapid decline in pygmy rattlesnake populations in Florida
•    Study the genetics of the immune systems of pygmy rattlesnakes to learn more about those individuals that are resistant to Ro and SFD

POTENTIAL IMPACT: If successful, the team’s findings will help wildlife managers and conservationists mitigate the effects of Ro and keep it from spreading. The study’s results could also shed light on genetic adaptation and resistance to disease that could have broader implications for other reptile diseases.