Distribution and Abundance of Freshwater Snails of Medical and Veterinary Importance in Mubi North Local Government Area , Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the distribution and abundance of snails of medical and veterinary importance across different aquatic habitats in Mubi North Local Government Area, Adamawa state, Nigeria. This study aimed to determine species composition, distribution and abundance, the influence of ecological factors on the abundance of fresh water snail species known to be vectors of diseases such as schistosomiasis and fascioliasis. Sampling was conducted using standard scooping and hand-picking methods. A total of 2307 snails species were collected and identified morphologically using standard identification guides. Water samples from each site were analyzed for key ecological parameters including pH, temperature, turbidity, salinity, dissolved oxygen, hardness, and total dissolved solids. The result from the study identified three species of snail: Bulinus globosus, Lymnaea natalensis and Bulinus truncatus. Bulinus globosus were the dominant species across the study area, comprising 86.35% of the total snail population, with the highest population in Betso and the least in Muchalla. This dominance indicates a high risk for schistosomiasis transmission. Lymnaea natalensis (8.75%) and Bulinus truncatus (4.26%) were less abundant but notable due to their role in fascioliasis. The analysis of ecological parameters revealed that the mean value of water pH, (5.93), DO (2.65 mg/L), and TDS (694.98 mg/L) significantly influenced snail abundance. High snail population were associated with moderate pH, warm temperature (26.86°C), and moderately high nutrient levels. Sites with extreme values of pH or low DO showed reduced snail diversity. The study underscores the importance of ecological surveillance and targeted control in habitats with favorable conditions for snail proliferation. Effective control strategies should integrate ecological monitoring to disrupt the transmission of snailborne diseases in the region.