Intermediate host recognition abilities of Fasciola hepatica miracidia

Abstract

Background: Fasciola hepatica, the causative agent of fascioliasis in sheep and cattle, requires a compatible snail intermediate host to complete its life cycle. The aquatic larval stage of this parasite is well-adapted for host-finding, with chemotactic abilities that enable it to sense potential host biomolecules. The extent of intermediate host recognition, particularly at the species level, and the downstream correlation with successful attachment has not been explored. This study investigated the ability of F. hepatica miracidia to distinguish between native and invasive host and non-host freshwater snail species during the host-finding and host-attachment phases. Methods: Quantitative ..