On the ecology of schistosome vectors in the Gambia, with evidence of their rôle in transmission

Abstract

1. (1) The following proved and potential vectors of human schistosomiasis, identified by Dr. G. Mandahl-Barth , are reported from the Gambia : ◦ Bulinus jousseaumei ◦ Bulinus guernei ◦ Bulinus globosus ◦ Bulinus senegalensis ◦ Bulinus forskali ◦ Biomphalaria p. gaudi Observations on their ecology are recorded and evidence is given of their rôle in transmission. 2. (2) Wild specimens of B. jousseaumei, B. guernei and B. senegalensis have been shown to be shedding cercariae of S. haematobium . Wild specimens of B. senegalensis were also found to be shedding S. bovis cercariae. 3. (3) Laboratory-bred specimens of B. forskali proved to be receptive to both S. haematobium and S. bovis .