What are probiotics?

The word probiotic literally means "for life" and is often used interchangeably with the term direct-fed-microbial, DFM, which simply means a microbial (preferably a live microorganism) that is fed directly to the reptile to benefit the intestinal environment of that particular species being fed.

These microorganisms should be non-pathogenic in nature and comprised of many different organisms geared toward the well-being of the particular species. They should create an environment in the intestinal tract of a reptile that is favorable to the animal, yet hostile to pathogens (disease-causing agents).

Why do reptiles need probiotics or DFMs?

Antibiotics have been a valuable tool against certain diseases. Unfortunately, some pathogens, such as Salmonella, are resistant to their capabilities to prevent or cure disease. Because of the indiscriminate nature of some antibiotics they will destroy both "bad" and "good" bacteria. Since the bacteria "war" is a numbers game, it is important that the "good" bacteria always outnumber the "bad" bacteria.

Feeding a probiotic or DFM specially formulated for reptiles can help insure this replenishing of "good" bacteria. Since all animals can experience stress and pathogens take advantage of stressful situations it is crucial that there are fewer numbers of these potential pathogens in the gut of the animal.

What research has proven the value of probiotics in reptiles?

Green Iguanas (Iguana iguana) that were positive for Salmonella when their fecal samples were tested were divided into a control and treatment groups. The control group was fed commercial iguana food. The treatment groups were also fed commercial iguana food with different levels of NutriBAC df hand-mixed into it.

The treatment groups were also given water with the NutriBAC df supplement sprinkled in it. The trial lasted over one year with monthly fecal samples tested for Salmonella. After only four months, iguanas being fed a high concentration of NutriBAC df began testing negative for Salmonella. After nine months further enrichment tests of the intestine of some of the iguanas showed there was no Salmonella growth. Other iguanas in the NutriBAC df treatment groups also became Salmonella-negative after being fed the specially-formulated supplement.

Subsequent testing on other treated iguanas continued to prove that iguanas being fed the NutriBAC df supplement were shedding Salmonella (through the feces) less frequently than control group iguanas. Enrichment procedures were still showing no Salmonella growth on the iguanas fed the NutriBAC df. To further substantiate the findings, a strict protocol was followed to determine if the direct-fed-microbials in NutriBAC df were attaching and living within the intestinal walls of the iguanas.

The results showed a range from 484,000,000 to 1,000,000,000 colony-forming units per gram of iguana intestine! Iguanas not fed the supplement still showed Salmonella residing in the intestine, colon, and cecum.

What is a zoonosis?

A Zoonosis is a disease which can be transmitted from animals to humans. The most recognized zoonosis is salmonellosis. The ever-increasing popularity of exotic pets, such as reptiles, has brought to the forefront the zoonotic concern.

Can the right probiotic or DFM prevent zoonoses?

It can help. It has been shown that a single DFM, such as the bacillus found in yogurt, is not as effective as a combination of "good" bacteria such as is found in NutriBAC df.

NutriBAC df can be considered a management tool to help the herpetoculturist or collector in assisting the well-being of their reptile. A concentrated effort on the part of the reptile owner must be made to maintain hygiene and it is important to include both the internal and external environment of the animal.

The internal environment of the animal can include the flora of the digestive tract. Even though seemingly healthy animals may harbor potential pathogens, the key to a healthy animal is a healthy gut. The more disease-free an animal's environment, the less likely of zoonoses to occur.