Genetic diversity and geographic distribution of Fasciola species from cattle in eight provinces of South Africa.

ABSTRACT: Fasciolosis, caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, is a globally significant parasitic disease affecting livestock and humans. Both species exist in South Africa, however, information on their geographical distribution and genetic diversity is limited. This study investigated the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Fasciola species in South Africa using Pepck, COI and ITS markers. Two hundred and seven Fasciola spp. specimens analysed in this study showed that 74.4% of isolates identified as F. hepatica and 25.6% as F. gigantica based on the Pepck gene. The geographical distribution revealed that F. hepatica occurred in all surveyed provinces but was dominant in the temperate zones of South Africa. Fasciola gigantica was confined to subtropical zones, with co-

SUBMITTER: Nukeri S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12678441 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature