One Health monitoring reveals invasive freshwater snail species, new records, and undescribed parasite diversity in Zimbabwe

Parasites & Vectors, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 17(1)

Published: May 22, 2024

Abstract Background Snail-borne trematodes afflict humans, livestock, and wildlife. Recognizing their zoonotic potential possible hybridization, a One Health approach is essential for effective control. Given the dearth of knowledge on African trematodes, this study aimed to map snail trematode diversity, focusing (i) characterizing gastropod species parasites, (ii) determining infection rates as intermediate hosts medically, veterinary, ecologically significant (iii) comparing diversity across endemic regions. Methods A cross-sectional conducted in 2021 Chiredzi Wedza districts Zimbabwe, known high human schistosomiasis prevalence, involved malacological surveys at 56 sites. Trematode infections snails were detected through shedding experiments multiplex rapid diagnostic polymerase chain reactions (RD-PCRs). Morphological molecular analyses employed identify species. Results Among 3209 collected specimens, 11 identified, including schistosome fasciolid competent We report first time invasive exotic Tarebia granifera which was highly abundant, mainly Chiredzi, occurring 29 out 35 Shedding 1303 revealed 2.24% rate, with 15 identified genotyping. Five exclusive Chiredzi: Bolbophorus sp., Schistosoma mansoni , mattheei, Calicophoron Uvulifer sp. Eight Wedza, Trichobilharzia Stephanoprora amurensis Spirorchid Echinostoma well an unidentified Plagiorchioidea superfamily. species, Tylodelphys mashonensis common both The RD-PCR screening 976 non-shedding indicated 35.7% presence schistosomes (1.1%) Fasciola nyanzae (0.6%). In Radix natalensis had highest prevalence (33.3%), while R. (55.4%) Bulinus tropicus (53.2%) prevalence. Conclusions Our xenomonitoring unveiled nine new records Zimbabwe. persists region despite six mass deworming rounds. parasite that can impact biomedically important underscores need increased monitoring. Graphical

Language: Английский

Effects of river regulation on aquatic invertebrate community composition: A comparative analysis in two southern African rivers

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 14(2)

Published: Feb. 1, 2024

While natural floods play a crucial role in shaping the composition of aquatic communities, most rivers worldwide are regulated or dammed for anthropogenic purposes, resulting alterations to biological and chemical these ecosystems. Studies have demonstrated various negative effects river regulation on invertebrate communities globally. However, there is scarcity research Africa, despite its vulnerability impacts. This study aimed compare Phongolo River, an impacted river, Usuthu less unregulated South Africa. It further ascertain whether Lake Nyamithi, naturally saline lake receiving water from both aforementioned systems, exhibited stronger similarity one two terms composition. Aquatic samples were collected 2012 2018 over several surveys. The River diverse sensitive community, emphasising high conservation value. impact, with taxa more resilient changes quality flow compared River. Mismanagement excessive use may lead loss any remaining this river. presence invasive molluscan Nyamithi also poses threat native communities. These species currently absent although other species, such as Australian redclaw crayfish, found systems. displayed unique distinct their floodplains. provides important baseline information River's invertebrates emphasises need maintain adequate floodplains protect biodiversity species.

Language: Английский