Search for parasites of exotic turtles in Hungary

Abstract

In Hungary, only one native chelonian is found–the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis orbicularis). It is widely distributed across the country, inhabiting most stagnant and slowflowing water habitats (Farkas, 2000). However, due to a high increase in the animal pet trade and lack of regulations, exotic turtles have started to invade the Hungarian waterbodies –mainly the pond sliders (Trachemys). The disappearance of wetlands and fragmentation of habitats already poses a threat to the nativepond turtles of Hungary, and having extra competition from alien invasive species could have a major impact on conservation projects (Farkas et al., 2013).