Abstract: Echinococcosis, caused by the larvae of Echinococcus (hydatid cysts) parasitizing in the liver, lung and other tissues and organs of intermediate hosts, is a globally prevalent zoonotic parasitic disease. It not only seriously endangers human health but also exerts a significant impact on the development of animal husbandry. In recent years, research on the genotyping of Echinococcus has advanced with the progress of molecular biology techniques. In this article, we reviewed the genotyping techniques of Echinococcus, major genotyping methods, research progress on the genotyping of two important Echinococcus species and their global epidemic status, with an attempt to offer an insight into the research in future and provide references for better understanding and control of echinococcosis.

Key words: Echinococcus, Genotyping; Echinococcus granulosus, Echinococcus multilocularis