2025, Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part C
Prevalence and seasonal distribution of intestinal protozoa in agricultural soils: A microscopic study
Author(s): Safaa M Kareem and Akeel Mohammed Al-Musawi
Abstract: A total of 200 soil samples were examined and analyzed to determine the geographic distribution and prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites such as Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica and Cryptosporidium spp. Examination of the samples using microscopy showed that 27% of the samples had evidence of Giardiasis; 22% of the samples contained Cryptosporidium spp.; and 16.5% of the samples were positive for Entamoeba histolytica. This indicates that microscopy is a valuable tool for detecting intestinal protozoan parasites. However, researchers tend to report lower numbers of cases detected by molecular techniques than by microscopy, especially in soils with a low incidence of clinically confirmed infections. Mapping the data geographically shows differences in prevalence in the areas studied. The lowest prevalence of Giardiasis was recorded in Hilla. This could be due to better sanitation practices and an increase in the use of treated animal manure rather than untreated animal manure. Al-Musayyib and Al-Kifl are areas with moderate to high levels of G. intestinalis and Cryptosporidium spp. infections. These areas also demonstrate high concentrations of farm animals on a per square kilometer basis, as well as a high likelihood of having contact with domestic animals on their property or near it. The highest rates of G. intestinalis (Giardia) infections were found in Al-Kifl. Conversely, Al-Hashimiyah had the highest levels of E. histolytica (Entamoeba) and Cryptosporidium spp. In Al-Hashimiyah, It is suspected that this region may be contaminated with human waste and may also suffer from inadequate treatment of wastewater. There are many environmental and agricultural factors that influence the transmission of protozoa; additionally, these factors appear to be season-dependent. The early part of spring had the highest rates of protozoan (Giardia and Entamoeba) detection due to warm temperatures and increased soil moisture levels, which may have contributed to the longevity of protozoan cysts and eggs. There were lower rates of protozoan transmission throughout the fall and winter months; moderate numbers of protozoans were detected. Summer months generally exhibit the lowest levels of protozoan transmission; likely, high summertime ambient temperatures and reduced soil moisture levels provide less of a suitable habitat for protozoa to persist. Contributing geographic and seasonal elements significantly affect both the existing presence of enteropathogenic bacteria (like E. coli) in agricultural soil, and their distribution. Therefore, the data indicate that environmental pollution and public health could benefit from enhanced management of agricultural practices to minimize the transferability of protozoa from agricultural practices.
DOI: 10.22271/letters.2025.v5.i2c.161
Pages: 240-244 | Views: 75 | Downloads: 30
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How to cite this article:
Safaa M Kareem, Akeel Mohammed Al-Musawi. Prevalence and seasonal distribution of intestinal protozoa in agricultural soils: A microscopic study. Zool Entomol Lett 2025;5(2):240-244. DOI: 10.22271/letters.2025.v5.i2c.161
