01 Oca 2026 Perşembe
The role of domestic carnivores in the spread of helminths in Azerbaijan by ecological-geographical zones
Abstract : Taking into account the influence of ecological-geographic zones, the distribution of helminths found in domestic carnivores in plain, foothill, and mountainous zones was comparatively analyzed depending on the climate. It has been determined that helminths, with their characteristics of being moisture-loving, thermophilic, and drought-resistant, are widely distributed in the plains and limited in the mountainous zones. Thus, 50 species of helminths discovered were grouped in the plains, 33 species in the foothills, and 27 species in the mountainous zone. Of the helminths, 7 species were recorded only in the foothill zone, 4 species were recorded only in the mountainous zone, constituting a specificity, and 17 species were recorded in all ecological zones, constituting a commonality. It has been determined that the reason for the different distribution of helminths in different ecological-geographical zones is the direct influence of the ecological characteristics of those zones. The registration of zoonotic species among the detected helminths and the contamination of the environment by stray dogs roaming freely pose a potential threat to public health. The results obtained necessitate systematic monitoring of the general helminthological situation and implementation of comprehensive measures to combat helminths. Taking this into account, it is advisable to develop and implement appropriate preventive measures against the spread of helminths in accordance with the climatic conditions of ecological and geographical zones.