Accumulation of oocysts of Cryptosporidium parvum in Biomphalaria glabrata (Pulmonata: Planorbidae) under experimental conditions

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Cryptosporidium oocysts are easily transported to various aquatic environments. The objective of this study was to evaluate B. glabrata mollusks exposed to food containing C. parvum oocysts. METHODS: Six experimental groups were used with B. glabrata either exposed or not to C. parvum oocysts. Microscopic and molecular diagnostics were conducted in water samples and tissues of B. glabrata. RESULTS: By light microscopy, C. parvum oocysts were identified in the water of the exposed groups. C. parvum DNA was not detected in water but was detected in tissue samples. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies should be conducted under natural conditions.