This monograph presents complex data on Fascioloides magna from all aspects of its research (general information, distribution, spectrum of hosts) and summarizes the latest information on molecular structure of informative genes which were recently applied in resolving taxonomy and biogeography of this veterinary important parasite. The giant liver fluke, Fascioloides magna, is important liver parasite of free-living and domestic ruminants. Due to its biology, distribution, medical impact, and invasive character, this liver fluke attracts attention of wide spectrum of specialists - veterinary doctors, hunters and farmers, as well as scientists. The parasite utilizes wide range of free living and domestic ruminants as definitive hosts, with various pathological impacts ranging from moderate infections towards lethal effects. Fascioloides magna is of North American origin where it occurs in five enzootic regions. It was introduced to Europe along with its deer hosts in 19th century and it has established three permanent natural foci. The giant liver fluke represents an outstanding model for studying the origin, spatial distribution, migratory routs, and invasion processes of introduced species.

Autorentext
Ivica Králová-Hromadová, udmila Zvijáková, Eva BazsalovicsováSlovak Academy of Sciences, Kosice, Slovakia

Inhalt
PREFACE.- GENERAL INFORMATION.- 1.1.Systematics and morphology.- 1.2. Life cycle 1.3. Pathology.- 1.4. Therapy.- DISTRIBUTION OF FASCIOLOIDES MAGNA.- 2.1. North America.- 2.2. Europe.- DEFINITIVE HOSTS.- 3.1. North America.- 3.1.1. Natural and experimental infections.- 3.2. Europe.- 3.2.1. Natural and experimental infections.- INTERMEDIATE HOSTS.- 4.1. North America.- 4.1.1.Natural infections.- 4.1.2. Experimental infections.- 4.2. Europe.- 4.2.1. Natural infections.- 4.2.2. Experimental infections.- MOLECULAR STUDIES AND KARYOLOGY.- 5.1. Standard and molecular cytogenetics.- 5.1.1. Basic karyological characteristics.- 5.1.2. Chromosomal localization of ribosomal genes.- 5.2. Ribosomal genes.- 5.2.1. Structure and application of ribosomal genes.- 5.2.2. Ribosomal DNA in molecular taxonomy of F. Magna.- 5.3. Mitochondrial genes.- 5.3.1. Structure and application of mitochondrial DNA.- 5.3.2. Mitochondrial DNA in F. magna biogeography.- 5.4. Microsatellites.- 5.4.1. Structure and application of microsatellites.- 5.4.2. Microsatellites in studies of genetic interrelationships of F. Magna.- CONCLUSION.