Molecular Characterization of Bovine Fasciola Species from Kebbi State, Nigeria

Current phenotypic techniques fail to reflect the full extent of the diversity of Fasciola species. Methods of diagnosis and differentiation of Fasciola species have been developed, but the understanding of the distribution and speciation of this parasite is location dependent. Therefore, it is important to characterize the Fasciola species from different geographical locations. This research was conducted to genetically characterize bovine Fasciola species from cattle brought for slaughter at Birnin Kebbi Modern Abattoir. Faecal samples were collected from the cattle before slaughter and were microscopically examined using two methods of Parasitological examinations (Flukefinder® Kit and formalin-ether sedimentation). Positive faecal samples were subjected to molecular detection method of PCR and sequencing of the products. The obtained sequence was subjected to BLAST and phylogenetic analysis was conducted to determine the Fasciola species prevalent in the area. The PCR results have detected Fasciola spp while the phylogenetic analysis have confirmed the species of liver fluke to be Fasciola gigantica. This have intensified the understanding of the existence of the parasite in the study area and have also provided the genetic diversity of F. gigantica. There is need for further research to compare Fasciola isolates from other livestock in order to determine the exact species infecting animals in the study area.