Abstract
<jats:p>The review summarizes current data on the biodiversity of parasites of the genus Sarcocystis and their significance for ecosystems, veterinary medicine, and public health. Sarcocystoses are considered diseases of pronounced veterinary and zoonotic importance, as they lead to reduced productivity in farm animals, deterioration of meat quality, and may cause pathological effects in humans. Information on the taxonomic and geographic diversity of representatives of the genus, the specificity of intermediate and definitive hosts, as well as the influence of environmental factors on parasite circulation has been analyzed. It is noted that the actual species diversity of Sarcocystis significantly exceeds the number of morphologically described forms, which is associated with the active implementation of molecular genetic identification methods. Modern diagnostic approaches are reviewed, including morphological and histological studies, as well as molecular methods using markers such as 18S rRNA, cox1, and ITS-1, which make it possible to clarify taxonomic boundaries, identify cryptic species, and analyze phylogenetic relationships. The need to integrate classical parasitological and molecular methods to improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance monitoring, and develop preventive measures is emphasized. It is concluded that an interdisciplinary approach combining parasitology, epizootology, ecology, and molecular biology is essential, as it provides a deeper understanding of the evolutionary relationships between parasite and host and forms a scientific basis for the effective control and prevention of zoonotic sarcocystosis.</jats:p>