Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in goats (Capra hircus) from Zhejiang Province, China: evidence of zoonotic species and subtypes

BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidium spp. are protozoan pathogens that infect the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals, posing significant zoonotic risks. Goats are recognized as important hosts; however, their role in the epidemiology and transmission of Cryptosporidium remains inadequately characterized in certain regions of China. METHODS: To investigate the occurrence and species composition of Cryptosporidium in goats (Capra hircus), fecal samples (n = 386) were collected from multiple farms in Zhejiang Province, China. Genomic DNA was extracted and screened for Cryptosporidium using PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene, followed by Sanger sequencing for species identification. Positive samples of C. parvum, C. xiaoi, and C. ubiquitum were further subtyped via nested PCR targeting the 60-kilodalton glycoprotein (gp60) gene. RESULTS: Overall, 31 (8.0%) of the 386 samples were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. Four species were identified: C. xiaoi (n = 14), C. ubiquitum (n = 12), C. parvum (n = 3), and C. occultus (n = 2). Subtyping revealed C. xiaoi XXIIIa, C. ubiquitum XIIa, and C. parvum IIdA19G1. Both C. parvum and C. ubiquitum are zoonotic species that have been previously reported in humans and rodents, indicating potential cross-species transmission within the region. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals the presence of multiple Cryptosporidium species, including zoonotic C. parvum and C. ubiquitum, in goats from Zhejiang Province. These findings indicate that goats may serve as potential reservoirs for environmental contamination and zoonotic transmission. It is recommended to implement proper management practices and hygienic disposal of goat manure to mitigate the risk of cryptosporidiosis outbreaks.