Timing matters: exploring emergence patterns of two trematode furcocercariae species from their snail hosts

The aim was to 1) molecularly characterize the parasites and hosts, 2) investigate the daily production and emergence rhythms of the two species, 3) evaluate seasonal differences in emergence rhythms, and 4) investigate the effects of environmental and biological factors on cercarial output.

The results showed that cercariae of T. clavata exhibited consistent sunset and nocturnal emergence patterns across two seasons under natural light and controlled temperature conditions, demonstrating adaptability to changes in photoperiod. Sanguinicola sp. studied in a single season showed higher cercarial production rates with nocturnal emergence peaks. These patterns were synchronized with the activity of their next hosts, increasing the likelihood of transmission.