Are Freshwater Sources in India Safe for Wildlife with Regard to Trematodiases?

Authors: Shanti Lal Choubisa*

DOI: 10.23880/oajvsr-16000276

Volume 9, Issue 2

Abstract

Freshwater is necessary not only for drinking for humans and animals but also for agricultural and industrial purposes. If diverse snails (gastropods) and crabs or crayfish (crustaceans) are found in both these water bodies, various dangerous trematodiases caused by infection with trematode parasites may also be possible in humans and animals. In fact, these invertebrate species act as carriers or vectors of these parasitic diseases. In wild ruminants like antelopes and deer, the most common trematodiases are fascioliasis, amphistomiasis, paramphistomiasis, and schistosomiasis while in wild carnivores like lions and tigers, the most common trematodisis are paragonimiasis. These diseases are caused by infection with trematode (fluke) parasites Fasciola spp., Amphistomum spp., Paramphistomum spp., Schistosome spp., and Paragonimus westermani. These parasitic diseases are more dangerous and fatal to wildlife. The incidence of these parasitic diseases varies greatly from region to region and according to the animal species. However, these diseases are more prevalent in wild herbivores than carnivores and the peak infection of trematode parasites generally occurs after the monsoon and before winter. Though infection with these parasites may occur throughout the year. Trematodiasis not only causes ill health in wild animals but also reduces their population. Many times, outbreaks of these diseases also result in death of many wild animals. In fact, freshwater sources that contain various species of snails and crabs infected with trematode larvae are not at all safe for wildlife in terms of trematodiasis. Therefore, more research survey studies are needed from time to time on different species of wildlife living in different ecosystems of the country to find out the current status of these diseases. The results of these studies are useful not only in health policy making but also in the prevention and control of these diseases in wildlife in India. Although these diseases are treatable and effective drugs are also available for them, yet, awareness, vigilance, and regular monitoring are necessary.

Keywords: Freshwater Sources; Snails; Trematode Parasites; Trematode Larvae; Trematodiasis; Vectors; Wildlife; India

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