Detection of a Mycoplasma sp. in a Python (Morelia spilota) with Stomatitis

Stomatitis was observed in three carpet pythons (Morelia spilota) from a large mixed collection in Germany. All affected animals were euthanized and one was submitted for diagnostic testing. No viruses were detected in tissues from this animal, but a novel Mycoplasma sp. related to mycoplasmas previously described in tortoises in Europe was detected in the oral mucosa. While the role of Mycoplasma spp. in disease in squamates is unknown, this is the third report of a Mycoplasma sp. related to respiratory disease in a snake.