PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

Bacterial community associated with the surface and inside of centipede forcipules: Identification and characterization

by Yasutaka Tanaka, Daiki Mizushima, Yoshimitsu Izawa, Tomohiro Matsumura, Chikara Yonekawa, Hirotomo Kato, Takashi Mato

Background

In tropical to subtropical regions, centipede bites may prompt medical attention, with manifestations largely reflecting venom-related discomfort, although infections, including rare fatal necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI), have been reported. However, no reports are available on the commensal bacteria on centipede forcipules.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate bacterial species residing on and in centipede forcipules and their potential role in post-bite infections.

Methods

Nine Scolopendra mutilans, three Scolopendra japonica, and two Bothropolys rugosus were collected from three regions in Japan. The bacterial composition of their forcipules was analyzed using 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene sequencing and microbiome analysis.

Findings

A diverse bacterial community was observed on the centipede forcipules. Among the NSTI-associated genera examined (Escherichia, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus), only Staphylococcus was identified as a minor population.

Conclusion

This study provides the first evidence that some bacteria found on centipede forcipules have been previously isolated from centipede bite infections. The risk of infection from bacteria on centipede forcipules during a centipede bite appears low. However, the presence of diverse bacterial species emphasizes the importance of thoroughly cleaning centipede bite wounds to prevent secondary infection.