STUDIES ON THE PREVALENCE OF PARASITIC NEMATODES FROM INSECT (WATER BEETLE) IN LAMBU DAM TOFA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KANO STATE

ABSTRACT This study undertook an exhaustive parasitological survey to investigate the presence, prevalence, diversity, and intensity of parasitic nematodes in water beetles from Lambu Dam, Kano State, Nigeria. A total of 50 water beetles were randomly collected from the dam using a dip net, and subsequently examined for parasitic nematodes using standard parasitological techniques, including dissection, microscopy, and morphological identification. The water beetles were collected from different locations within the dam, including the littoral zone, pelagic zone, and areas with submerged vegetation. The collected beetles were transported to the laboratory in a container filled with water from the dam, and subsequently identified to species level using taxonomic keys. The beetles were then dissected, and their internal organs, including the digestive tract, reproductive system, and body cavity, were examined for the presence of parasitic nematodes. The results showed that none of the examined specimens were infected with parasitic nematodes, suggesting a possible absence or very low infection rate in this region. This baseline study provides valuable information on the parasitic nematode status of water beetles in Lambu Dam, which can inform future studies on the ecological and public health implications of parasitic nematodes in aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of conducting regular parasitological surveys in aquatic ecosystems to monitor the presence and prevalence of parasitic nematodes, and to inform strategies for controlling and preventing the spread of these parasites. The findings of this study also underscore the need for further research on the ecological and epidemiological factors that influence the distribution and prevalence of parasitic nematodes in aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, this study demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between parasitologists, ecologists, and public health professionals in understanding the complex relationships between parasitic nematodes, their hosts, and the environment.