Schistosoma cattoi is a parasitic flatworm belonging to the trematode group. It is a species within the genus Schistosoma, which comprises various blood flukes that are known to cause schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting millions of individuals worldwide.
Schistosoma cattoi is primarily found in the blood vessels of domestic ducks and other waterfowl species. The adult worms reside within the portal venous system of the host, particularly the veins surrounding the liver and intestinal wall. Unlike other species of Schistosoma, S. cattoi does not require a snail intermediate host for completion of its life cycle and can directly infect waterfowl.
The life cycle of S. cattoi involves the release of eggs from the adult worm into the host's bloodstream. These eggs are then expelled through the host's feces, contaminating water bodies. Once in the water, the eggs hatch, releasing larvae called miracidia. The miracidia penetrate specific snail species, where they undergo development and multiplication, giving rise to another larval form called cercariae. These cercariae are then released from the snail and readily infect waterfowl when they come into contact with the cercariae-infested water.
Schistosoma cattoi is of particular concern as it can cause severe infections in waterfowl, leading to weight loss, decreased egg production, anemia, and ultimately death. Effective control and prevention measures, such as the identification and treatment of infected waterfowl, as well as sanitary measures to prevent contamination of water sources, are crucial in managing S. cattoi infections.
