Survey of Malassezia sp and dermatophytes in the cutaneous microbiome of free-ranging golden-headed lion tamarins (Leontopithecus chrysomelas - Kuhl, 1820).

Background: Data about the presence of fungi on the cutaneous surface of wild animals are scarce. The aim of this study was to survey dermatophytes and Malassezia sp in the external ear canal and haircoat of Leontopithecus chrysomelas.

Methods: A total of 928 clinical samples were collected from 232 animals: For Malassezia screening 696 samples were studied, 464 of cerumen and 232 of haircoat; another 232 haircoat samples were studied for dermatophyte analysis.