A Report of Cestode (Phylum:Platyhelminthes) Parasites from Indian Waterbirds

Water birds have been defined as “species of bird that are ecologically dependent on wetlands”. This is the definition used by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Avian fauna occupies a significant position in an aquatic ecosystem. Birds are a diverse group, and their bright colours, distinct songs and calls, and showy displays add enjoyment to our lives. They not only have an aesthetic role but also occupy a very important position in food chain. India has about 243 species of water birds and species of wetlands dependent and associated birds (Kumar et al., 2005). It has been observed that almost half of these birds are migratory and come to the subcontinent from their breeding grounds in northern latitude of Russia, China, Central Asian countries, Mongolia and Persian gulf.