Prevalence of endoparasites of field crickets (<i>Brachytrupes membranaceous</i>) in the eastern zone of Kogi State, north-central, Nigeria

Abstract

Field crickets belong to the family; Gryllidae (insect: orthoptera), with flattened bodies and long antennae. They are omnivores and scavengers that normally feed on organic materials as well as decaying plant materials. A survey of the endoparasites of field crickets (Brachytrupes membranaceous) in the eastern zone of Kogi State, north-central Nigeria, was undertaken between April and June, 2016. A total of 150 field crickets (Brachytrupes membranaceous) were collected at nine locations and were dissected in petriplates. The midgut region of the alimentary canal dissected and examined for parasites. Out of the 150 samples examined, 64 (42.6%) had different types of parasites. The gut parasites encountered were 14(9.3%) Spinochordodes sp., and 50 (33.3%) Paragordius sp. The highest prevalence was observed in May, while the male Field Crickets were most affected. The results observed in the present study suggest that field crickets normally consumed as a special delicacy in this area, might be a potential reservoir for zoonotic parasites. There is need for intensive public health enlightenment on the danger of consuming raw or improperly prepared field crickets.

Keywords: Crickets; helminthes; parasites; eastern Kogi; Nigeria