Aspects of Water Quality of Freshwater Systems Harbouring Snail Vectors of Schistose Parasites in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

A study of some aspects of water quality of freshwater systems harbouring snail vectors of schistosome parasites was conducted in Jos, Nigeria. Calcium ion concentration of the water bodies was a mean value of 31 mg.l-1. The range of temperature was 15 - 30OC. The occurrence of Biomphalaria pferifferi was attributed to the existence of low temperature regimes in the area. pH values were on the alkaline side. High pH values were associated with conductivity and low dissolved oxygen values. Range of conductivity values for the occurrence of snail vectors was 27 - 200 micromhos. Dissolved oxygen in the water rangefrom 1.2 - 8.0 mg.l-1. Thus the water quality parameters were within the tolerance limits of the snail vectors and this was responsible for the wide distribution of the snails.


Journal of Aquatic Sciences Volume 16, April 2001, pp. 13-17



KEY WORDS:

Freshwater, water quality, snail vectors, schistosome.