Effects of bayluscide WP 70 on the survival and water-leaving behaviour of Biomphalaria straminea, snail host of schistosomiasis in northeast Brazil

RESUMO

The toxic and behavioural effects of niclosamide (Bayluscide WP 70) on Biomphalaria straminea from a highly endemic area of schistosomiasis in northeastern Brazil were investigated through laboratory bioassays. The LD50 and LD90 were 0.114 mg/l and 0.212 mg/l, respectively. Water-leaving behaviour occured among 14 per cent to 30 per cent of snails in the presence of sublethal doses of niclosamide and among 16 per cent of the controls. It was concluded that both relatively low susceptibility to niclosamide and water-leaving behaviour of local B. straminea may be responsable for the recolonization of transmission foci after mollusciciding. It was suggested that recently improved measures of snail control, such as controlled-release formulations of niclosamide and plant molluscicides should be considered in areas where snail control is recommended.