Experimental transmission of Schistosoma mansoni in brackish waters

Abstract
In the laboratory, transmission of Schistosoma mansoni to and from Biomphalaria glabrata can occur in artificial sea water at or below a concentration of 12-5%. Miracidia can also emerge and infect snails in 25 % sea water, but this concentration is inimical to the survival of the snails or their eggs. The parasite thus appears to be better adapted to brackish water than is the intermediate host. Epidemiological studies are needed to assess the limits imposed by brackish waters on the natural transmission of schistosomiasis.