Downstream effects: Impact of antibiotic pollution on an aquatic host–parasite interaction

The global increase in antibiotic use has led to contamination of freshwater environments. Despite the identified impacts antibiotics on humans and wildlife, effect host–parasite life cycles is relatively unexplored. In current study, we utilize trematode parasite Schistosoma mansoni, its snail intermediate host, Biomphalaria glabrata, investigate influence an ecologically relevant concentration history characteristics both host. Our results demonstrate that not only accelerate development time, but also host reproduction delay parasite-induced castration. Using a mathematical model, suggest alterations associated with are likely transmission disease burden. study suggests pollution could impact ecosystems by influencing dynamics potentially burden schistosomiasis endemic regions.