Establishment of Biomphalaria tenagophila Snails in Europe
2008
Biomphalaria tenagophila Snails in Europe
Sample size: 34
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Majoros Gábor, Fehér Zoltán, Deli Tamás, Földvári Gábor
Primary Institution: Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Budapest, Hungary
Hypothesis
Can Biomphalaria tenagophila snails establish a population in Europe?
Conclusion
Biomphalaria tenagophila snails have established a self-sustaining population in Romania, posing a potential public health risk for schistosomiasis in Europe.
Supporting Evidence
- B. tenagophila snails were collected in Romania, marking their establishment in Europe.
- The study identified the snails using morphological and genetic methods.
- Previous misidentifications of these snails may have occurred in the region.
Takeaway
Scientists found a type of snail in Romania that can carry a disease called schistosomiasis, which could spread to people in Europe.
Methodology
Snails were collected and identified morphologically and genetically, with DNA extracted for sequencing.
Limitations
The study did not detect trematode larvae in the observed specimens.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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