| Hexamita parasite and its effects on the leech mortality |
| Paper ID : 1051-ICIAQUA |
| Authors |
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Mohammad Sudagar *1, sepide firouzbakhsh2 1Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan< Iran 2Gorgan university of agricultural sciences and natural resources |
| Abstract |
| Hexamita is a type of trematode parasite that is usually found in fresh waters and muds. Transmission of Hexamita occurs through contaminated water sources such as contaminated ponds or streams. This parasite can lead to significant changes in the behavior and performance of leeches and eventually lead to their death. In this research, the effects of Hexamita parasite on leeches’ mortality and population management will be investigated. Among the important problems caused by the Hexamita parasite in leeches, we can mention the damage to leeches’ digestive system, nervous system disorder, weakening the immune system, behavioral changes, metabolic imbalance, secondary diseases, and finally, their death. Leeches that live in unfavorable environments may be more sensitive to infection with Hexamita parasites and experience rapid mortality. Intensity of contamination, type of the leech species, degree of contamination and general health status of the leech, all affect the amount of casualties. In addition, environmental factors such as temperature, pH level, water quality, and changes in leech feeding patterns can also affect the rate of leech losses due to contamination with Hexamita parasites. In general, Hexamita parasite contamination is an important challenge for the health and survival of the leech, and research on the matter is very important for maintaining the population and survival of the leech and the balance of aquatic ecosystems |
| Keywords |
| Hexamita parasite, leech, leech mortality |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |