Diversity of Parasitic Protozoa Across the Indian Subcontinent: A Comparative Study of Two Phyla

Subkingdom Protozoa represents a significant taxonomic category, comprising of various parasitic members. Globally, there are approximately 50,000 described species of protozoa, with only 11,000 exhibiting parasitic behavior. In India, 29 parasitic species of phylum Bigyra and 18 parasitic species of phylum Amoebozoa have been documented. This study focuses into comparing species richness of parasitic protozoa by targeting their preferred habitats. The type of hosts (vertebrate or invertebrate) commonly associated with parasitic protozoans of phylum Bigyra and phylum Amoebozoa have been documented from published literature. Their spatial distribution pattern across all Indian states and Union territories (UT) has also been reviewed. Our study shows that phylum Amoebozoa has stronger predisposition towards ectoparasitic associations, whereas phylum Bigyra appears to favour endoparasitic associations. Among the studied species, both the phylum showed higher preference for vertebrate hosts. The phylum Amoebozoa was notably prevalent in West Bengal, followed by Andhra Pradesh while phylum Bigyra was seen to be more prevalent in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, followed by West Bengal. Insights gained from this research, on the diversity and distribution patterns of parasitic protozoa within two specific phyla, particularly focusing on their preferences for hosts and habitats, can predict the parasite induced diseases in the subcontinent. Understanding these patterns is crucial for advancing knowledge about parasitic infections and devising effective strategies for their prevention and control. Considering the economic perspective, the future of livestock rearing in the Indian population hinges on comprehending parasitic protozoa and the diseases they infect upon cattle.