Watershed ecology-based rethinking of Oncomelania snail control

Abstract

Oncomelania hupensis is the only intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, and control of O. hupensis is of great significance in schistosomiasis control. As an amphibious mollusk, O. hupensis is frequently distributed in the fluctuating zones of rivers and lakes, and its distribution is along the water system and watershed. Nevertheless, there is little knowledge on the impact of watershed factors on the landscape and dynamic changes of O. hupensis distribution. As a novel discipline, watershed ecology will help reveal the internal relationship of snail distribution, identify the vulnerable areas of snail distribution, and define the priority areas for snail control and protection based on the specific needs of schistosomiasis control and ecological protection of the Yangtze River. In addition, watershed ecology may be used to evaluate the impact of water resource development projects on snail control from the perspective of watershed hierarchy.