Molecular Prevalence and gp60 Subtype Diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in Dairy Cattle in Anhui, China

Cryptosporidium spp. are important gastrointestinal disease-causing parasites found in humans and animals. Cattle are major hosts for Cryptosporidium species such as C. parvum, C. bovis, C. ryanae, and C. andersoni, with C. parvum being the most pathogenic and a key zoonotic agent. However, systematic epidemiological data on Cryptosporidium in dairy cattle from Anhui Province remain scarce. In this study, we aim to investigate its prevalence and genetic diversity. Cryptosporidium species and subtypes were identified by targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) and 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) genes. PCR testing revealed an overall Cryptosporidium infection rate of 35.7% (338/948) across four dairy farms in Anhui Province, with significant regional variation (p < 0.01). Bengbu exhibited the highest infection rate (61.5%), whereas the lowest was found in Fuyang (8.6%). Age-specific distribution indicated that calves aged 2–6 months exhibited the highest infection rate (50.2%). Four Cryptosporidium spp. were identified, C. parvum, C. andersoni, C. ryanae, and C. bovis, with C. parvum and C. bovis being predominant. All C. parvum subtyped isolates belonged to the IId subtype family. Seven and five gp60 subtype families were detected in C. ryanae and C. bovis, respectively. Our findings revealed distinct geographical and age-associated variations in the distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. in dairy cattle in Anhui Province, highlighting the need for targeted control strategies in high-risk regions and young calves.