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Introduction The objectives of this study were to evaluate a modified method for isolating geohelminth eggs and to assess the geohelminth contamination in Bangladesh. Methods The efficacy of the modified method was evaluated using naturally contaminated and experimentally seeded soil samples. In total, 240 samples were assessed from four different sites in three geographic contexts. A questionnaire survey with 50 professionals was conducted. Results The modified method showed considerable efficacy in isolating parasitic eggs from naturally contaminated soil (54.0%) and experimentally seeded soils (63.0% for Toxocara eggs and 52.0% for Ascaris eggs). The modified method was described as convenient by the majority of participants. Overall prevalence was 52.5%, with several species of helminth observed, including Toxocara sp., Ascaridia galli/Heterakis gallinarum, Ascaris sp., hookworms/strongyles, Capillaria sp., Trichuris sp., and taeniids). The contamination rate was found to be higher around livestock farms (76.7%), followed by latrines (63.3%), households (41.6%), and schools (28.3%). Conclusions The modified method was shown to be feasible in terms of field applicability and egg recovery rate, and could be adopted in low-resource settings. A substantial prevalence of geohelminths was observed, with some of the species associated with zoonoses. These findings highlight the urgent need for widespread mapping of geohelminths to avoid spillovers to animals and humans.

Objective: The current study was undertaken to evaluate the seasonal dependency and prevalence of gastrointestinal roundworms (nematodes) infecting domestic fowls (Gallus gallus domesticus) in Kashmir. Materials and Methods: From August 2017 through July 2019, the investigation was undertaken during each of the four seasons. We tested 400 guts obtained from varied places around the Kashmir valley for nematode infestation. The nematodes found within the digestive tract were collected and identified using a variety of identification keys under the microscope. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences was used to analyze the data (version 20). Chi-square (χ2) test was carried out to analyze the sample data. Results: 196 hosts were infected with various nematodes, indicating an overall prevalence of 49% (196/400). The findings revealed that the prevalence of Ascaridia galli was 32.97% (61/185) in the first year and 35.34% (76/215) in the second year. Heterakis gallinarum had a prevalence rate of 20.80% (38/185) in the first year and 24.18% (52/215) in the second year, whereas Capillaria spp. had a prevalence rate of 10.81% (20/185) in the first year and 12.55% (27/215) in the second year. The overall prevalence of A. galli was determined to be 34.25% in both years (August 2017July 2019), with a mean intensity of 4.86. Summer months had the highest parasitic load. Heterakis gallinarum had a prevalence rate of 22.5% and a mean intensity of 26.83. Summer was shown to have the most considerable parasitic burden. Capillaria spp. had an overall prevalence of 11.75% and a mean intensity of 4.59; autumn had the highest parasite load. The most abundant species was identified as A. galli. It was shown that there is a significant (p < 0.01) link between seasonal¬ity and helminth parasite prevalence. Conclusion: The studys findings indicate that these gastrointestinal nematodes are ubiquitous throughout the year, but are particularly abundant in the summer and fall seasons among domes¬tic poultry in the study area. This study on the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in Gallus gallus domesticus demonstrates the seasonality of infection rates and also offers various methods and techniques for framing effective strategies for controlling these helminthes to maximize profit from backyard chicken farming. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2021; 8(3.000): 448-453]

Gastrointestinal nematodes are one of the most important constraints of poor geese health and productivity, in addition to being involved in great economic losses for various poultry sectors. This study primarily aimed at determining the epidemiological profile and risk factors associated with the occurrence of gastrointestinal (GI) nematode parasites in geese in Egypt. The phylogenetic relationships between heterakids were the second aim. For achieving these aims, a total 180 of intestinal samples were screened for the presence of gastrointestinal nematodes over a period of one year from December 2018 to November 2019. Furthermore, A PCR-based DNA sequencing of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit1 gene (nad1) was conducted for characterization of adult Heterakis dispar. The current search revealed that the overall prevalence was 33.33% (60/180). Five species of nematode species was encountered in this study, namely Capillaria spp., Heterakis gallinarum (Schrank, 1788), Ascaridia galli (Schrank, 1788), Subulura brumpti (Lopez-Neyra, 1922) and Heterakis dispar (Schrank, 1790). A positive relationship was found between the prevalence of nematode infection and age of tested geese revealing that the high prevalence was found in adults rather than young birds (P = 0.03). Moreover, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of nematode infection between male and female geese (P > 0.05). Also, there was strong significant seasonal trends in the prevalence of the recovered helminths with the maximum infection was observed in summer season and lowest in winter (P = 0.002). The BLAST analysis of H. dispar nad1 sequence showed a 96.4% similarity with the sequences of H. dispar Heilongjiang. It also showed a lower similarity to the mitochondrial gene sequences of H. gallinarum (84.4%). This is the first molecular identification and report of genetic diversity of Heterakis dispar in geese from Egypt. The current finding initially provides a concise account of knowledge about the epidemiology of gastrointestinal nematodes infecting geese and are considered as a starting point for the implementation of appropriate control and prophylactic schemes for GIT nematodiasis. It also confirms the potential uses of genetic techniques for taxonomic studies of different parasites.

Indigenous chicken (Gallus domesticus) is reared for both its meat and eggs. Most consumers prefer the meat probably due to its specific texture and taste. The study was conducted to determine the presence of helminth parasites of 240 indigenous chickens (Gallus domesticus) obtained randomly from 12 divisions in Penang Island, Malaysia. Necropsy findings revealed 14 endoparasite species which parasitized these chickens namely, Acuaria hamulosa, Acuaria spiralis, Amoebotaenia sphenoides, Ascaridia galli, Brachylaima sp., Capillaria spp., Gongylonema ingluvicola, Heterakis gallinarum, Hymenolepis sp., Oxyspirura mansoni, Raillietina echinobothrida, Raillietina tetragona, Syngamus trachea and Tetrameres americana. The high abundance of helminth species observed in this study may be attributed to the free-range scavenging production system, where these indigenous chickens were exposed to intermediate or paratenic hosts of helminths which infect poultry. Besides, sustainable methods of helminthic control measure are necessary in order to enhance indigenous chicken production and eventually improve the economy of the rural farmers.

Intestinal parasitosis is one of the chief causes of health problems associated with domesticated and free-range ducks particularly in developing countries. Among the various health problems amoebiasis and helminthic infection are still significant among ducks (Anas platyrhynchos Linnaeus, 1758) in Nepal. We report the status of intestinal parasitosis, particularly the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites of ducks reared in three different locations (Bishnu-Devi, Kanchan-Basti and Balambu) of Chandragiri Municipality from November 2016 to February 2017 using opportunistic random method. A total of 120 faecal samples collected in clean, dry and screw-capped plastic containers from six different locations were examined for the presence of parasites using formol-ether concentration method and modified Ziehl Neelsen staining technique, sodium chloride floatation and zinc sulphate sedimentation methods. Overall parasite positive rate was 81.67% (98/120). Positive rate of nematodes was highest (74.49%; 73/98) followed by cestodes (52.04%; 51/9) and protozoans (41.84%; 41/98) (P

Free-range chickens are an integral part of poultry production in many developing countries. In the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, the majority of the population own free-range chickens, which serve a variety of purposes including being a source of meat, eggs and use for cultural rituals amongst others. However, there is lack of scientific studies on occurrence of parasitic infections on free-range chickens in Lesotho. The aim of this study was to document common gastrointestinal parasites infecting free-range chickens in four villages of Mafeteng District in Lesotho. A total number of 462 pooled faecal samples were collected from various households in HaKubutu (n = 114), HaMatjeka (n = 120), HaMpalipali (n = 120) and Thabang Villages (n = 108) which were subjected to microscopic examination using McMaster technique. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infection was as follows: Eimeria tenella (12.8%), Ascaridia galli (10.4%) and Heterakis gallinarum (5%). The prevalence for H. gallinarum and Ascaridia galli were comparatively higher during the hot-wet season (7.1% and 2.8% respectively) than the cold-dry season (3.2% and 1.9% respectively) and varied significantly (P < 0.05). For E. tenella, the oocysts per gram were slightly higher in the cold-dry season than the hot-wet season. Polymerase chain reaction only amplified DNA from six (29%) adult A. galli worms of which two amplicons were successfully sequenced. The obtained cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 partial gene sequences displayed 98–100% identity with South African A. galli isolates. This is the first scientific study on prevalence and molecular characterization of nematodes and coccidia species infecting free-range village chickens in Lesotho. The findings can be used to review management of gastrointestinal nematodes and protozoal parasites of free-range chickens in Lesotho.

Extensive rearing systems enable higher occurrence of helminths, which is a hindrance in poultry farming, significantly affecting productivity. A survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in chickens reared in extensive system in the city of Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil between December 2017 to September 2018. A total of 5579 specimens were recovered from the gastrointestinal tracts of most animals (81.55% of prevalence). Of the positive birds, only 41.67% had mixed infections, and of these, more than 90% were nematodes and cestodes co-infections. Three nematodes (Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Capillaria sp.), seven cestodes (Raillietina tetragona, R. echinobothrida, R. cesticillus, Choanotaenia infundibulum, Hymenolepis cantaniana, H. carioca and Davainea proglottina) and two trematodes (Postharmostomum commutatum and Echinostoma sp.) species were identified. The most dominant helminth species was H. gallinarum (60.19%), which also presented higher average intensity (35.46 ± 0.65) and abundance (21.34 ± 3.01) among all recovered species. The tapeworm species correspond to 42.23% of prevalence and the trematodes correspond to only 3.40%. Despite the scarcity of data in the Brazilian literature on poultry helminths reared in extensive systems, regional parasitological surveys are important. It is expected that these results will contribute to the adoption of prophylactic measures and alternative control strategies in order to reduce the risk of helminth infection in poultry Os sistemas de criação extensivos permitem maior ocorrência de helmintos, o que é um entrave na avicultura, afetando significativamente a produtividade. Um levantamento foi realizado para determinar a prevalência de helmintos gastrointestinais em frangos criados em sistema extensivo na cidade de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brasil, entre dezembro de 2017 a setembro de 2018. Um total de 5.579 espécimes foram recuperados do trato gastrointestinal da maioria dos animais (81,55% de prevalência). Das aves positivas, apenas 41,67% tiveram infecções mistas e, destas, mais de 90% foram coinfecções por nematóides e cestóides. Três espécies de nematoides (Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Capillaria sp), sete de cestóides (Raillietina tetragona, R. echinobothrida, R. cesticillus, Choanotaenia infundibulum, Hymenolepis cantaniana, H. carioca and Davainea proglottina) e dois trematódeos (Postharmostomum commutatum and Echinostoma sp.) foram identificadas. A espécie de helmintos mais dominante foi Heterakis gallinarum (60,19%), que também apresentou maior intensidade média (35,46 ± 0,65) e abundância (21,34 ± 3,01) entre todas as espécies recuperadas. As espécies de tênia correspondem a 42,23% da prevalência e os trematódeos correspondem a apenas 3,40%. Apesar da escassez de dados na literatura brasileira sobre helmintos avícolas criados em sistemas extensivos, levantamentos parasitológicos regionais são importantes. Espera-se que esses resultados contribuam para a adoção de medidas profiláticas e estratégias alternativas de controle, a fim de reduzir o risco de infecção por helmintos em aves.

Zalizar L, Winaya A, Malik A, Widodo W, Suyatno, Anggraini AD. 2021. Species identification and prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in Indonesian native chickens, and its impact on egg production. Biodiversitas 22: 4363-4369. Gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infection is a severe problem of local chicken production, such as poultry and egg. Hence, the proper strategy to control the parasite invasion should be implemented regarding chicken productivity performance. Moreover, the existing environment is also essential in supporting chicken production. The study's objective was to determine the prevalence rate of the gastrointestinal helminths in four strains of Indonesian native chicken viz. Ranupane, Lokal Putih, Wareng, and Lurik, and the impact of the chicken egg production. A total of 280 chickens which were evaluated consisting of 70 birds from each strain, were tested for the prevalence of helminths eggs in a sample of feces and the effect on hen day production (HDP). The results showed that the percentage rates of infected chicken with helminths reached 56.43%, and the number of eggs per gram (EPG) in all four strains was considered moderate (115 EPG of feces). At the same time, the average of HDP per the four strains at 7 to 12 months was about 34.36-45.80%, which was in a normal range. The majority of helminths species found in examined native chicken were Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Raillietina spp., and Capillaria spp. The prevalence of GIP helminths did not negatively affect egg production in all four strains of chicken by moderately tolerant infections, and the HDP of chickens was normal.

This study aimed at determining parasitic prevalence and probable haemato-biochemical changes that may occur from parasitic infections in marketed indigenous chickens in Kiambu County, Kenya. Thirty adult chickens were purchased and examined for ectoparasites, haemoparasites and haemato-biochemical changes. Post mortem was conducted to recover gastro-intestinal parasites and fecal samples taken for egg/oocyst counts. Forty-seven percent (14/30) of chickens examined were in poor body condition, 43% (13/30) in fair and 10% (3/30) in good body condition. Ectoparasites infection prevalence was 66.7% (20/30). Four haemoparasites were isolated. Overall helminths prevalence was 86.6% (26/30), nematodes at 76.7% (23/30) and cestodes at 40% (12/30). After processing fecal samples, 30% (9/30) were positive for helminth eggs and 30% (9/30) had coccidial oocysts. Relative to normal values, total erythrocyte count was low and total leucocyte count with band cells high. Mean haematocrit and heterophil values were high (p=0.0005; p=0.0061). Mean lymphocyte count was low (p=0.0128) in chickens with ectoparasitic infestation. Eosinophils increased significantly (p=0.0363) although mean erythrocytes counts decreased (p=0.0176), in chickens with gastrointestinal parasites. Creatine phosphokinase and blood glucose levels were high, serum protein and albumin levels were low. Blood glucose level decreased significantly (p=0.0239) and total plasma protein increased (p=0.045) in chickens with Haemoproteus spp. infection. The study showed, ecto- and endo-parasites are prevalent and may contribute to alteration of haemato-biochemical parameters of sub-clinically infected marketed indigenous chickens. These results are expected to contribute towards and encourage usage of clinico-pathological parameter testing as a measure of poultry health status for enhanced poultry disease diagnoses.

This study investigated the prevalence and the specific identity of cestode parasites isolated from the digestive tract of domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) in Cairo, Egypt. Out of 246 pigeons, 61 (24.79%) were infected by one or more species. Eight helminthes species were recorded; three nematodes; Ascaridia galli, A. columbae and Heterakis gallinarum and five cestodes; Raillietina echinobothrida, R. tetragona, R. sp., Cotugnia digonopora and Choanotaeniainfundibulum. No trematodes were recorded. The morphological observations, using light microscope, were employed for precise identification of cestodes with particular attention to molecular identity of Raillietina spp. using two molecular techniques: RAPD-PCR and SSCP-PCR.

The world’s poultry population is on the ascendency as a result of the high demand for poultry product by consumers. In Africa, poultry meat is estimated to represent almost 25% of all meat, whereas in some areas it covers 100% of the animal protein available. The high demand for poultry products has led to an increase in poultry production in almost all African countries including Ghana, with the domestic chicken being the most kept. The sector has been reported to have recorded a drop in production, partly due to infection of birds by diseases, causing organisms including parasites. The study conducted was to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in local and exotic breeds of chickens in Pankrono–Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Two hundred (200) cloacae of slaughtered birds were collected from slaughtering units in the study area and the faecal samples were examined for the eggs/cysts of gastrointestinal parasites using the simple flotation technique and microscopy. Nematodes and cestodes were recovered in 131 (65.5%) of the samples examined with Ascaridia galli recorded as the most prevalent. Some of the nematodes include Ascaridia galli 65 (32.5%), Heterakis gallinarum 38 (19.0%), and Capillaria spp. 29 (14.5%). Some cestodes were Raillietina spp. 19(9.5%) and Choanotaenia infundibulum 5 (2.5%) with Prosthogonimus spp. 3 (1.5%) being the only trematode recovered. The local breeds recorded a percentage prevalence of 76.0%, making them the most susceptible breed to gastrointestinal parasites. The results obtained attest to the reason behind the reduction in poultry production. It is therefore recommended that farmers are educated on farm managerial practices that will reduce the risk of infection and help increase production to meet the demand of consumers.

Commercial small-scale chicken farms using all-in-all-out production but operating with low standards of hygiene/biosecurity are increasingly common in Vietnam. These conditions facilitate transmission of gastrointestinal helminths. However there are no published data on these parasites in these systems. The aims were: (1) to determine the prevalence/burden of gastrointestinal helminths in small-scale commercial flocks in commercial small-scale flocks in the Mekong Delta region; and (2) to investigate the association between worm burdens and birds’ weight and disease status. Randomly selected chickens (n=120) (‘normal’ flocks) were investigated at the end of their production cycle (∼18 weeks), as well as 90 chickens with signs of respiratory and/or severe disease. The gastrointestinal tract of chickens was dissected and all visible helminths were identified. 54.2% and 54.4% healthy and diseased chickens contained helminths. Diseased, colonized chickens harboured a higher mass of helminth worms (3.8 ±SD 8.6g) than colonized, healthy chickens (1.9 ±6.3g). Eight species were identified, three nematodes (Ascaridia galli, Cheilospirura hamulosa and Heterakis gallinarum), four cestodes (Hymenolepis, Raillietina cesticillus, Raillietina echinobothrida, Raillietina tetragona,) and one trematode (Echinostomatidae). Heterakis gallinarum was the most prevalent helminth (43.3% and 42.2% in healthy and sick chickens, respectively), followed by A. galli (26.7% and 41.1%). Colonized chickens weighed 101.5g less than non-colonized birds. Colonisation was significantly higher during the rainy months (May-November) for both H. gallinarum and A. galli. Anthelminthic usage was not associated with reduced helminth burdens. We recommend upgrading cleaning and disinfection and limiting access to ranging areas to control helminth infections in small-scale commercial chicken flocks.

Coccidiosis is one of the most economically important diseases of the poultry, around the globe. In order to assess seasonal and age-wise prevalence of coccidiosis individually and with concurrent infections, this study was conducted on commercial poultry farms in and around Multan division, province of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 28,126 boilers, 4,052 layers and 7,699 golden bird samples, provided by regional farmers and consultants, were examined by microscopy for the diagnosis of coccidiosis. Based on postmortem lesions, several infections including coccidiosis, viral, and miscellaneous diseases were catalogued, whereas samples were cultured to identify concurrent bacterial diseases. Cumulative analysis of this large set of samples revealed a prevalence of 14.16, 11.01, and 19.57% in broiler, layer and golden birds, respectively. Ascaridia galli (A. galli) showed a higher prevalence in layer (2.47%) compared to golden (0.21%) birds (P < 0.01). Amongst all concurrent infections investigated, bacterial infections were identified in highest percentage of samples (59.24%; P < 0.05). The age-wise and season-wise prevalence of coccidiosis and A. galli was found to be significant (P < 0.05). During the study period, an estimated of 10.69 (coccidiosis) and 0.29 (A. galli) million poultry birds were treated or provided prophylaxis and supportive therapy at Pakistani commercial poultry farms. Depending upon the prevailing market conditions, the total economic losses (treatment, prophylaxis, and supportive therapy) from coccidiosis and A. galli were estimated to be US $45,405.00 and 2,638.50, respectively, while production (weight and eggs) losses for broiler (US$ 2,750,779.00), layer and golden, young (US$ 13,974.98 and 50,228.76) and adult (US$ 104.74 and 203.77) were estimated. Unit loss of coccidiosis with concurrent diseases and intestinal worm was estimated to be US$ 0.005 and 0.01, respectively. These results highlight the potential impact of coccidiosis individually and with concurrent infections on the poultry productivity and will inform farmers, policy makers, and other governmental and non-governmental stakeholders on the use of control and management measures in containing these infections.

SUMMARY This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and worm burden of gastrointestinal parasites in Thai indigenous chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) kept under extensive backyard conditions in Northern Thailand. A total of 211 male (N = 98) and female (N = 113) chickens from 11 smallholder farms were selected randomly between December 2016 and May 2017. At slaughter, fecal samples were collected to estimate fecal egg counts (presented as eggs per gram of feces) and oocyst counts (oocyst per gram of feces). The gastrointestinal tract of each animal was examined for the presence of parasites. The percentage of FEC- and FOC-positive samples was 33.7 and 55.4%, respectively. On average, 111 ± 328 ascarid eggs and 2,983 ± 11,641 coccidian oocysts were found. From the post mortem examination, 3 nematode species and cestodes were recovered. A total of 156 (73.9%) of the sampled chickens were infected with at least 1 helminth species. Average worm burden per chicken was 46.7 (SD = 50.9, median = 30). The most prevalent species were the nematodes Heterakis gallinarum (70.6%) followed by Ascaridia galli (60.2%) and Capillaria spp. (44.1%). The overall prevalence of cestodes was 27.7%. Apart from A. galli with higher prevalence in males than in females (P ≤ 0.05), gender did neither affect prevalence nor worm burden (P > 0.05). Growth performance was not negatively affected by helminth infections. In conclusion, the vast majority of Thai native chickens are subclinically infected with at least 1 helminth species under the studied backyard conditions.

Brazilian poultry production is growing, mainly due to the cost and benefit that chicken meat provides. The importance of free-range chickens and the susceptibility, to which they are exposed, makes it necessary to know about gastrointestinal parasites and the consequences that large infections can cause for them as such as weight loss. The present study aimed to determine the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in free-range hens raised in an extensive regime in the municipality of Santa Rita, state of Maranhao, Brazil. The studied population was composed of adult chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) acquired from slaughterhouses in the region. The gastrointestinal organs of each chicken were separated and subsequently conditioned in flasks containing Railliet and Henry’s solution and sent to the laboratory, to be analyzed and processed. Of the 100 chickens examined, 227 specimens of helminthes were identified, with a frequency of 32.6% for nematodes and 67.4% for cestodes. Among the nematode the following parasites were identified: Ascaridia galli (27.03%); Heterakis gallinarum (48.65%) and Subulura spp. (24, 32%). Raillietina echinobothrida (100%) was the only cestoda identified. The average infection rate by species of parasite was 1.18 for A. galli, 2.22 for H. gallinarum, 1.06 for Subulura spp. and 9.00 for R. echinobothrida. It is concluded that free-range chickens are parasitized by nematodes and cestoda.

Background : Free-range chickens are quite common in Brazil. In this alternative rearing system, the animals are rustic and raised in an extensive system. Free access to “bare soil” results in the increased occurrence of intestinal parasites since larvae and / or eggs of helminths and protozoa oocysts find favorable conditions for their survival and dissemination in the soil. Although the occurrence and importance of parasitic infections in free-range chickens is well known, the objective of this study is to report an outbreak of endoparasites in free-range chickens in the municipality of Barra - BA, in view of bird susceptibility associated with scarcity of studies in western Bahia. Cases : The chickens were kept free, in a bare soil yard in a household at the urban perimeter of the municipality of Barra - BA. Feeding consisted of whole corn grains, thrown directly in the soil. The drinking fountains were dirty and the animals had no history of vaccination or deworming. Symptoms Anorexia, difficulty in eating and in locomotion, presence of seromucous secretion in the oral cavity, emaciation and diarrhea were all observed symptoms. One of the birds presented excessive vocalization, drowsiness and flaccid paralysis of the neck. Necropsy was performed on 3 chickens: 2 females (cases 1 and 2) and 1 male (case 3). Macroscopic analysis revealed the presence of seromucous secretion in the upper respiratory tract of all animals. Specimens of Ascaridia galli were observed in cases 1 and 2, Heterakis gallinarum in cases 2 and 3, Raillietina sp . in cases 2 and 3 and Davainea proglottina in case 1. Microscopically, the animals had an inflammatory infiltrate in the liver and intestines. Some animals presented necrosis of the tracheal epithelial cells, as well as of the epithelial cells present at the apex of the villi. No significant results were found in the coproparasitological exam. Discussion : The diagnosis of endoparasitosis in this outbreak was based on epidemiological, clinical and pathological findings. The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in free-range chickens is linked to factors such as age, high animal density, absence of sanitary hygienic measures, as well as environmental temperature and humidity. The appearance of injuries in the intestinal mucosa is influenced by characteristics such as parasitic load, concomitant infections, age and the host's immune status. During necropsy of the birds were found 2 helminths of the Nematoda class ( Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum ) and 2 of the Cestoda class ( Davainea proglottina and Raillietina sp.). A. galli , seen in 2 cases, is considered low pathogenicity for adult chickens, however young birds are susceptible and can die due to intestinal obstruction and hemorrhages. H. gallinarum is responsible for causing typhlitis, with diarrhea and weight loss, this helminth was found in 2 animals in the present study, however only 1 had changes in the digestive tract. D avainea proglotina and Raillietina spp. might cause, respectively, severe hemorrhagic enteritis and nodule formation in the small intestine mucosa. In Brazil, even though it is notable that intestinal parasitism is one of the key problems in alternative poultry farming, there are few studies that evaluate the presence of endoparasites in chickens raised in alternative production systems, with animals being more frequently exposed to nematodes and cestodes. The multiparasitism observed in this study probably stems from flaws in the rearing system, mainly related to sanitary hygiene management. Therefore, the reduction in the occurrence of these helminths is closely related to the performance of basic prophylactic measures, such as offering good quality food and water in clean containers, separating lots by age, performing sanitary emptiness and deworming. Keywords: livelihood creation, nematode, cestode, multiparasitism, avian pathology. Surto de endoparasitose em galinhas caipiras ( Gallus gallus domesticus ) na Bahia, Brasil Descritores: criacao de subsistencia, nematoide, cestoide, multiparasitismo, patologia aviaria.

Previous studies have reported interactions between Salmonella spp. and some helminth coinfections. In this study, S. typhimurium and Ascaridia galli coinfections were analyzed, and the consequences on therapy were proposed. In a first experiment where the effect of the bacteria on the nematode was evaluated, thirty 42-day-old broiler chickens were divided into 3 groups and coinfected with both parasites. The rate of A. galli egg inoculum was kept constant at 500/ml while that of S. typhimurium varied as follows: T0 (500 A. galli eggs/ml), T104 (500 A. galli eggs/ml+104 S. typhimurium CFUs), and T106 (500 A. galli eggs/ml +106S. typhymurium CFUs). EPG and parasitic load were measured using the McMaster technic, and number of worms and their length were also measured. We observed that T106 containing 106 CFUs of Salmonella significantly reduced the EPG values, and this group recorded the lowest worm load ranging from 18 to 21 worms. Likewise, the length of the worms obtained with T104 and T106 appeared to be shorter than those of the control (T0). In a second experiment to assess the effects of the nematode on the bacteria, thirty 42-day-old broiler chickens were divided into 3 groups and coinfected with both parasites. The rate of S. typhimurium inoculum was kept constant at 106 CFUs while that of A. galli varied as follows: T0 (106CFUs), T500 (500 A. galli eggs/ml +106S. typhymurium CFUs), and T750 (750 A. galli eggs/ml +106S. typhymurium CFUs). Bacterial load was measured using Voogt technique. We observed that T500 increased the colonization time and prolonged the duration of S. typhimurium secretion. Salmonella appears to be a hyperparasite considering the deleterious effect on A. galli. Due to this, it may be prudent to combine anti-Salmonella treatment with anthelmintic so as to effectively treat pathologies caused by these two pathogens.

Gastrointestinal helminth parasites are a concern for the poultry industry worldwide as they can affect the health, welfare, and production performance. A systematic review of the prevalence over time in different countries may improve our understanding of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in chickens and subsequently lead to improved poultry health. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide an overview of the published information regarding the epidemiology and the diagnostic approaches of chicken helminth infection. Six databases were searched for studies, and a total of 2,985 articles published between 1942 and 2019 were identified and subsequently screened for eligibility using title or abstract and full text assessment, resulting in 191 publications to be used in the study. Postmortem diagnostics (73.8%) and the flotation technique (28.8%) were commonly used to detect helminth infections with a pooled prevalence of 79.4% ranging from 4 to 100%. More than 30 helminth species in chicken populations were identified including Ascaridia galli (35.9%), Heterakis gallinarum (28.5%), Capillaria spp. (5.90%), and Raillietina spp. (19.0%) being the most prevalent. The reported prevalence of helminth infection decreased over time in developing countries while it increased in the developed world. Chicken kept in backyard and free-range systems had a markedly higher pooled prevalence of helminth infection (82.6 and 84.8%, respectively) than those housed in cage production systems (63.6%). This may indicate the need for more rigorous control and prevention measures in free-range and backyard production systems using regular deworming coupled with access to early and accurate diagnosis allowing for early intervention.

In the spring of 2019, adult (75 wk old) brown laying hens from a commercial, pen-free, egg-laying facility (11,000 birds per house) located in northwest Arkansas were obtained for the purposes of sourcing robust and evenly dispersed cestode infections for anticipated anthelmintic evaluations. To that end, four birds from each of six discrete sites (northwest, northcentral, northeast, southwest, southcentral, and southeast) in one production barn were obtained on two occasions, 8 days apart, and necropsied for helminth counts. A definite, repeated, location-to-location variation in infection incidence and magnitude was seen for each of the two cestode parasite species present and for one of the two nematode parasite species present. Burdens of Ascaridia galli were generally similar regardless of bird location, with site-specific mean totals per bird over both sampling days between 31 and 80. For the remaining helminths, infections were greatest for birds from the southern half of the building as opposed to the northern and from the western end of the barn as opposed to the central or eastern portions. Location-specific mean worm burdens over both sample dates ranged from 340 to 1133 (Heterakis gallinarum), 14 to 277 (Raillietina cesticillus), and 1 to 35 (Choanotaenia infundibulum). The greatest individual bird infections were 299 (A. galli), 3575 (H. gallinarum), 1015 (R. cesticillus), and 102 (C. infundibulum). The above counts are for all developmental stages combined (A. galli and H. gallinarum) and for scolexes only (R. cesticillus and C. infundibulum), as determined via standard collection and quantification procedures using both intestinal contents and overnight soaks. Immediately before the mapping study outlined above, birds were obtained from the east end of the source barn and used for the nematocidal evaluation of fenbendazole in the water (5 mg/kg body weight [BW] for 1 day), levamisole in the water (8 mg/kg BW for each of 2 days), herbal mixture in the feed (1 gm/4.5 kg BW each day for 5 days), diatomaceous earth (2% of total feed for 10 days), and a nutraceutical mixture feed supplement (2% of feed for 7 days). Based on arithmetic means for adult forms, control trial efficacies for A. galli and H. gallinarum were 0% and 12% for the nutraceutical feed additive, 0% and 22% for the diatomaceous earth feed additive, 0% and 26% for dietary herbals, 87% and 63% for levamisole, and 82% and 84% for fenbendazole, respectively. Only adult burdens of A. galli and H. gallinarum for fenbendazole- and levamisole-treated birds were significantly different from control bird levels (P ≤ 0.05).

The poultry industry is an infant but fast growing sector in Ethiopia. However, it is largely dependent on local chicken managed under backyard production system. The sector is facing different challenges, mainly emanated from prevalence of infectious diseases such as helminth parasite species. Hence, this study came up with an aim to determine the infection rate and identify helminth parasite species in chickens managed under different production systems, in Mekelle, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was employed, from November 2015 to March 2016. Postmortem (N=138) and fecal (N=410) samples of chicken were considered for necropsy and coproscopic examination to see both adult and eggs of helminth parasites, respectively. Similar gastrointestinal helminth parasites infection rate of chicken was obtained from both examination approaches (necropsy, 90.60%; and coproscopy, 90.97%). The study attested high prevalence (87.7%) of mixed infection with helminth parasites of chicken. Heterakis gallinarum (72.5%) and Ascaridia galli (68.8%) were found as the most dominant species (necropsy). During coproscopic examination cestode (89%) infections showed a relatively higher prevalence than nematodes (84.4%), although no difference was observed during that of necropsy examination results. Chickens of local breed from backyard production system had shown more likelihood of getting helminth infection when compared with their corresponding relatives (coproscopy). However, the variation was not statistically significant during that of necropsy finding. Therefore, the higher prevalence of parasitism and mixed infection observed in the study area would warrant for an urgent intervention with regular deworming scheme, and strict attention should be given towards hygienic measures and other health related management activities.

This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminth parasites of local chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) from Lalitpur district, Nepal. It was carried out from February 2014 to March 2015. A total of 125 samples (93 alimentary canals of freshly killed chicken and 32 stool samples from ground and fowl runs) were collected. Out of 93 alimentary canals 17 were collected from free range chicken and 76 were from slaughtered house i.e. from poultry farm chicken. The faecal samples were collected in the sterile vials containing 2.5 percent potassium dichromate. Depending upon the convenience, post mortem examination method, differential floatation method and direct smear method were used for the examination of samples. The present study showed only 40 percent of all the poultry examined as infected. Overall 5 species of nematodes, 1 species of cestode and 4 unidentified species were found to be prevalent in chicken from Lalitpur district. The highest prevalence rate was found with Heterakis gallinarum (22.4%) followed by Capillaria species (16%), Ascaridia galli (10.4%), unidentified species (4.8%) and Raillietina tetragona (4%). Statistically there was a significant difference in the prevalence of helminth species (χ2=33.83; p< 0.05; α=1). Likewise, there was significant difference in the prevalence rate of helminth parasites in free range chicken and poultry chicken (χ2=22.055; p< 0.05; α=1).

Aim Swallows are a family of migratory birds found worldwide except Antarctica. Annually, a number of species of swallows migrate to Iran. As they make their nests close to human living places, this may be a potential risk for public health. Conversely, no study has been conducted on intestinal parasitic infections of these birds so far. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in migratory swallows (Hirundo rustica) in the central region of Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran. Materials and methods In this cross-sectional study, 205 feces samples from two districts (Sari and Qaemshahr) in the central region of Mazandaran were randomly collected during the summer and spring sessions of 2016-2017. The collected samples were examined using the routine direct fecal examination and formalin-ethyl acetate concentration. In addition, the samples were examined by cold acid-fast staining method to detect possible Cryptosporidium oocysts. Results The results of this study indicated that 38 samples (18.5%) were infected with intestinal parasites. Among the helminthic parasites, eight genera and species were identified as follows: Ascaridia galli, Syngamus trachea, Raillietina, Toxocara spp., Choanotaenia, Taenia spp., Ascaridia spp., and Moniezia spp. In addition, among protozoan parasites, only the Coccidia spp. oocysts were identified. Conclusion Our findings showed a relatively high prevalence of parasitic infections in migratory barn swallows in Mazandaran Province. Given the presence of zoonotic parasites in the samples, further investigations are needed to identify all parasites fauna, particularly zoonotic species among swallows in the region.

Anthelmintic Activity of Ethanol Extract of Polygonum minus Leaves against Ascaridia galli Dara Agusti Maulidya1, Muhammad Ibnu Kahtan2, Diana Natalia2, Mitra Handini3, Ari Widiyantoro4 1University of Tanjungpura, Faculty of Medicine, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia 2University of Tanjungpura, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia 3University of Tanjungpura, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia 4University of Tanjungpura, Faculty of Mathematics and Science, Department of Chemistry, Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia ABSTRACT Objectives: Helminth infection is one of the main matters that cause health problems in developing countries. Polygonum minus are empirically used as an anthelmintic drug, but there has been no scientific study that proves it. Methods: This study was aimed at determining the anthelmintic activity of ethanol extract of Polygonum minus leaves against Ascaridia galli in vitro. The extract was prepared in three different concentrations i.e 0.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL. NaCl 0.9% was used as a negative control group and albendazole 0.2 mg/mL, a broad spectrum anthelmintic was used as a positive control group. Ascaridia galli was used as the test parasite. The study involved the determination of death time of the worms. Results: The death time of the worms that caused by the extract concentration 0.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL, respectively were (mean±SD) 35±3.32 hours, 32.8±2.39 hours and 25±3.39 hours. The death time that caused by negative and positive control group were 76.6±8.30 hours and 19.2±1.48 hours. There is no significant difference of death time of the worms between the extract concentration 2 mg/mL and the positive control group. Conclusion: The anthelmintic activity of ethanol extract of Polygonum minus leaves has been confirmed and extract concentration 2 mg/mL has the same anthelmintic activity with albendazole 0.2 mg/mL. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 8(1):23-26 Keywords: Anthelmintic, Polygonum minus, Ascaridia galli, ascariasis

Background : Parasitic diseases are among the problems that most affect birds. The Ascaridia spp. is one of the genera which is responsible for the main infections, and the Ascaridia. galli is the most frequent species found in birds. The Ascaridia spp. egg is oval and present a smooth shell which could be mistaken with the Heterakis gallinarum eggs, once they are the most frequent parasites in birds. Therefore, this case report describes the occurrence of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in a guinea fowl ( Numida meleagris ) feces and gut. Case : In January 2017, rain season in northern Brazil, a visit was performed to a free range avian breeding property in the municipality of Sao Miguel do Guapore in the state of Rondonia, Brazilian Amazonian Region. The property breeds two chicken species: Gallus gallus domesticus and Numida meleagris as well as one quail species. The problem was related to the guinea fowl breeding which was composed by 50 adults and 45 young birds about two or three weeks old. All 45 young guinea fowl were presenting various clinical signs, which included: yellowish catarrhal diarrhea, isolation, loss of appetite, body weight, ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence. All animals that presented the clinical signs as ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence died on an average of 24 h and the mortality was of 65.9% (29/45). Subsequently, a three-week old bird corpse was necropsied, and it was observed that its intestines presented a large amount of endoparasites besides presenting thickening. As there were a lot of helminths, they were collected along with the intestinal content for examination. The parasitological examinations of the feces were performed by Willys Molay's technique. As a result of the fluctuation technique, were observed and identified large quantities of Heterakis gallinarum and Ascaridia galli eggs. The adult worms of H. gallinarum and A. galli were identified using dichotomous key. Discussion : Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum infection were reported in guinea fowl in a free range chicken breeding property in the municipality of Sao Miguel do Guapore in the state of Rondonia, Brazilian Amazonian Region. Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum eggs have already been identified in free-range chickens ( Gallus gallus domesticus ) by flotation techniques, as Willys Mollay and Faust and they are the main species of helminths housed by chickens. However, these parasites are not commonly reported in guinea fowl worldwide, especially in the Numida meleagris species. Regarding necropsy, intestinal wall thickening is generally a common finding which has been reported in chickens, however it is not commonly reported in guinea fowl. Additionally, the presence of clinical signs of nematode parasitosis frequently occurs in birds with high parasitic load. In this report, we believe that the guinea fowls births on the rain season was one of the factors to the high parasites incidence found, since both nematodes species are frequently identified in the rain seasons. Additionally, the management adopted by the breeder, using concomitantly the same nursery for guinea fowl and chicken, added up to inadequate sanitary management, seems to have directly influenced the contamination and recontamination of the different brood litter of guinea fowls. It is concluded that guinea fowl ( Numida meleagris ) located in the state of Rondonia were affected by high amounts of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum and caused high mortality in the young specimens and consequently causing economic losses to the proprietary .

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-10T17:03:31Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-01-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2021-07-15T15:06:35Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S1516-635X2019000400322.pdf: 1139618 bytes, checksum: 086cdf5ba8b83777bfb541930bc12993 (MD5) Industrial broilers raised on helminthic medication-free feed were diagnosed with a severe disease caused by Ascaridia galli, characterized by intestinal hemorrhage and obstruction. A. galli was identified based on the morphological features of the nematode. Broilers were raised for a longer period (63 days) for weight recovery, grouped as stunted (n=500), had low body score and had fetid diarrhea. The duodenum-jejunum segment was the most severely affected with obstruction and had localized accumulation of gas. The intestinal mucosa was severely congested with petechial and suffusive hemorrhages. The outbreak resulted in morbidity of about 10% and mortality of up to 4% and was associated to the absence of preventive medication on feed and slack biosecurity. The reemergence of A. galli is discussed in view of the alternative poultry management and raising conditions for drug free and welfare. Univ Fed Minas Gerais, Escola Vet, Med Vet Prevent, Campus Pampulha UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil Univ Fed Minas Gerais, Dept Parasitol, Inst Ciencias Biol, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Campus Botucatu, Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Campus Botucatu, Botucatu, SP, Brazil

Objectif: Cette etude vise a caracteriser les parasites des eaux des lacs de Yamoussoukro et d’etudier les risques sanitaires dans la reutilisation de ces eaux usees afin d'en tirer les consequences epidemiologiques. Methodologie et resultats : Vingt-huit echantillons d’eaux residuaires ont ete collectes dans huit lacs de Yamoussoukro a partir de recipients steriles. La methode de Bailenger a ete utilisee pour la mise en evidence des parasites. La reconnaissance specifique et le denombrement des parasites ont ete faits a l’aide d’un microscope optique. Les prevalences observees ont ete comparees entre lacs et par espece de parasite. Au total, 13 especes de parasites: Ankylostoma sp., Strongyloide sp., Ascaris sp., Nematodirus sp., Trichuris sp., Toxocara sp., Capillaria sp., Ascaridia galli , Enterobius vermicularis , Taenia sp., Hymenolepis diminuta ., Entamoeba coli ., Entamoeba histolytica et les larves de Strongles ont ete detectees dans les eaux des huit lacs investigues a Yamoussoukro. Les oeufs d’helminthes sont quasi-presents dans tous les lacs investigues avec des charges parasitaires variables. Trois especes ont donne des charges parasitaires tres elevees : L’espece Ankylostoma sp a ete retrouvee dans tous les lacs. Les Strongyloides et les Ascaris sp presentaient des prevalences de 100 % et 87,5 % respectivement. Au niveau des lacs investigues, lacs, le lac N° 5 etait le plus parasite avec une prevalence de 100 % sur l’ensemble des parasites, ensuite viennent les lacs N°1, 6 et 8 (69,2 %) puis les lacs G0, 9 et 10 (53,8 %). Conclusion et application des resultats: Les analyses parasitologiques montrent que les lacs de Yamoussoukro sont contamines par des parasites d’importances medicales. L’infestation de ces eaux en agents pathogenes interdit leur usage en agriculture ce qui n’est pas couramment observe sur le terrain. Mots cles: Parasites, lacs, eaux residuaires, Yamoussoukro, Cote d’Ivoire English Abstract Objectives: Water, source of life is essential for all living beings. After its use, the water is loaded in various elements modifying its physical, chemical and biological characteristics. One of the most serious environmental problems is the problem of sanitation. Indeed, human activity leads to the production of wastewater discharged daily into the wild. Methodology and results: Twenty-eight waste water samples were collected from eight Yamoussoukro lakes from sterile containers. The method of Bailenger was used for the detection of parasites. The specific recognition and enumeration of the parasites was done using an optical microscope Prevalences observed were compared between lakes and by parasite species. A total of 13 species of parasites: Ankylostoma sp., Strongyloid sp., Ascaris sp., Nematodirus sp., Trichuris sp., Toxocara sp., Capillaria sp., Ascaridia galli , Enterobius vermicularis , Taenia sp., Hymenolepis diminuta ., Entamoeba coli ., Entamoeba histolytica et les larves de Strongles were detected in the waters of Yamoussoukro lakes. Helminth eggs are almost present in all investigated lakes with variable parasite loads. Three species gave very high parasite loads: The species Ankylostoma sp was found in all lakes. Strongyloids and Ascaris sp had prevalence rates of 100 % and 87.5 %, respectively. At the level of the parasite load of the lakes, Lake N ° 5 was the most parasitized with a prevalence of 100 % on all the parasites, then the lakes N ° 1, 6 and 8 (69,2 %) then the Lakes G0, 9 and 10 (53.8 %). Conclusion and application of results: Parasitological analysis show that Yamoussoukro lakes are contaminated by parasites of medical importance. The infestation of these waters with pathogens prohibits their use in agriculture, which is not commonly observed in the field. Keywords: Parasites, lakes, wastewater, Yamoussoukro, Cote d’Ivoire

Gastrointestinal nematodes are re-emerging in countries where the popularity of free-range poultry production systems is increasing. Amongst all gastrointestinal nematodes, Ascaridia galli is of significant concern due to the parasite's direct life cycle and ability to survive extreme environmental conditions. In laying hens, A. galli parasites have been associated with reduced health, welfare, immunity, and egg production. Direct losses are caused by obstruction and damage of the intestinal tract in hens when high worm burdens are present. These result in reduction in egg production and body weight of infected laying hens, consequently leading to significant economic losses for farmers. Furthermore, heavy infections with A. galli may lead to increased mortality within the flock. Indirect losses are due to suppression of immune system function which can increase susceptibility to secondary infections. Infection with A. galli can also alter nutrient utilization and absorption. Levels of anti- A. galli serum and egg yolk antibodies increase following A. galli infection. Elevated antibodies can be used as an indicator of current or previous infections and therefore can be used as a diagnostic tool. The impact of A. galli on hen health and welfare manifests through the depletion of liver lipid reserves and increased use of energy reserves to mount immune responses against the parasite. This review highlights the variable effects of A. galli infection on the performance, health, egg quality, and emphasizes especially on immune responses of free-range laying hens as well as it evaluates various potential detection methods and preventive and control measures of this parasitic disease.

The present study determined the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal helminths in domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) between November 2012 and August 2013. One hundred and twenty domestic chickens were purchased from villages in four districts of Phayao province; Mae Chai, Dok Khamtai, Chun and Chiang Kham. Morphological differences were used to identify the helminth species, and HAT-RAPD technique was used to differentiate among closely related species. The results revealed that the total prevalence of infection was 99.2%. Cestode and nematode infections showed the highest prevalence in rainy season, while trematode infections were low and only found in hot season. The species and their prevalence were: Ascaridia galli (50.8%), Heterakis gallinarum (86.7%), Prosthogonimus macrorchis (1.7%), Echinostoma revolutum (0.8%), Raillietina echinobothrida (48.3%), Raillietina tetragona (57.5%), Raillietina cesticillus (12.5%), Raillietina sp. (35.8%), Cotugnia chiangmaii (14.2%) and Cotugnia sp. (32.5%). The prevalence of helminth infections did not differ significantly between male and female chickens. HAT-RAPD analysis, the specific fragment of 400 and 250bp indicated that Raillietina sp. and Cotugnia sp. found, respectively, differ from other closely related species. This study has confirmed that HAT-RAPD technique can be used to differentiate among related species combined with morphological observations.

Worm control is an important aspect of the successful management of the egg production industry. Of particular concern is Ascaridia galli, which at high parasite loads affect health and production in layers. Application of a targeted treatment strategy (TT) to control A. galli has shown promise. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of such a strategy on welfare indicators and production performance of layers. Six flocks (F1-6) on a commercial farm were allocated to three treatment groups. Flocks F1 and F4 were treated (TT) with fenbendazole at 22, 27 and 36 weeks post-placement (WPP). Flocks F2 and F5 were treated at 27 WPP (conventional treatment, CT) and hens in flocks F3 and F6 served as untreated (UT) control groups. At 19, 35 and 45 WPP twenty-five hens plus thirty eggs per flock were randomly selected. Hens were weighed and their plumage conditions (PC) were assessed. The eggs were subjected to various external and interior quality analyses. Production data such as number of eggs/hen/week, egg mass and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated from raw data obtained from all flocks on a weekly basis. The number of eggs/hen/week, egg mass and FCR were higher (P 0.05) in the TT flocks and hens had better PC both at 35 and 45 WPP compared with other flocks. No differences in body weight and physical egg quality were observed between groups except for egg shell strength which was higher (P 0.05) in the CT flocks. These data suggest that better production performance and plumage, which suggests improved health, can be achieved through the application of a TT strategy. The insights gained from this research should help to justify the extra cost and labor associated with the TT strategy.

Helminths, causing various diseases, have a negative impact on the quality of meat, egg production, productivity and other characteristics of domestic waterfowl that is an important sourсe of a number of ration components. To prevent the above facts, for the first time from 2014 to 2018, complex helminthological studies were carried out in all regions of the Nakhchivan AR (Babek, Julfa, Sharur, Kengerli, Shahbuz, Ordubad and Sederek) and 359 domestic waterfowl hosts were subjected to complete helminthological autopsy to find 14 helminth species (three species of cestodes – Fimbriaria fasciolaris, Tschertkovilepis setigera, Drepanidotaenia lanceolata, two species of trematodes – Notocotylus attenuatus, Hypoderaeum conoideum and 9 nematode species – Amidostomum anseris, Trichostrongylus tenius, Capillaria obsignata, Ganguleterakis dispar, Tetrameres fissispina, Heterakis gallinarum, Ascaridia galli, Porraceum crassum and Thominx contorta). Of these, 11 species were observed in domestic geese and 12 species in domestic ducks. Common for both geese and ducks are 9 species (3 species of cestodes, 2 species of trematodes and 4 species of nematodes). The presence of such a large number of common species of parasites for both species of birds can be explained by keeping these birds under identical conditions with similar nutrition in the same farms. The percentage of helminth infection of geese and ducks in general for the Nakhchivan AR is 46.5%. Separately, the percentage of infection in the AR in geese is 45.1%, and in ducks 48.0%. The largest number of species of parasites by regions was recorded: Babek – 12 species, Sharur – 9 species and Kengerli – 8 species. Of the 14 species of helminths recorded on the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, three species (G. dispar, A. anseris, T. tenius) were recorded in all 7 regions with high prevalence and intensity of infection. The finding of these all 3 species of nematodes in different regions differing from each other in ecological conditions and their widespread distribution in these hosts can be explained by the fact that they have a simple cycle of development, and most importantly, that all of them are specific parasites of domestic waterfowl.

IntroductionTimely and valid diagnostic of parasitic diseases are prerequisites for profitable traditional poultry breeding, which enables adequate prophylaxis and effective therapy. This research is retrospective of the prevalence of endoparasites in 880 hens, 291 ducks, 171 geese and 302 turkeys in extensive poultry breeding in the Republic of Serbia.Materials and MethodsQualitative parasitological examination was done by conventional gravitational flotation method and sedimentation method. In rare cases of animal death, an autopsy was performed.ResultsIn the period from 2012 to 2017, in 12 examined localities in the Republic of Serbia, single or mixed infections with endoparasites Eimeria spp., Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Capillaria contorta, Amidostomum anseris and Syngamus trachea were diagnosed. The highest prevalence of ascaridiosis was detected in hens (15.69-24.05%), trichostrongylidosis in ducks (20.53-30.19%), heterakiosis (20.89- 25.86%) and capillariosis (20.68-26.08%) in geese, and syngamosis (23.39%) and capillariosis (14.28- 24.17%) in turkeys. Endoparasites were the most prevalent in hens in south Serbia (63.21%), in ducks in central Serbia (54.71%) and in geese (46.55%) and turkeys (58.24%) in north Serbia. Among mixed infections predominant was polyparasitism of Heterakis spp. and Capillaria spp.ConclusionsAn epizootiological and clinical diagnostic approach based on the results of parasitological screening is very important from the aspect of organic poultry farming.

The prevalence of ecto-, blood and gastrointestinal helminth parasitic infection was conducted among free-ranging wild birds in Benin City, Nigeria. Birds were collected by traps and cages, identified and the parasites were collected following standard procedures. A total of 224 wild birds comprising 24 species were used for this study (107 were examined for ecto- and gastrointestinal helminth parasites respectively while 117 were examined for blood parasites only). Ninety-nine (92.52%) were infected with ectoparasites which included mainly Columbicola columbae, Menopon gallinae, Chelopistes melagridis while 105 (98.13%) with gastrointestinal helminth parasites comprising majorly Ascaridia galli, Raillietina cesticillus, Heterakis gallinarum, however, it was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Thirty-eight birds (32.48%) of the 117 were infected with blood parasites out of which 34 (29.06%) were infected with Plasmodium species while 4 (3.42%) with Leucocytozoon sp. Columbicola columbae was the most abundant ectoparasite recorded and M. plegadis, Ixodes sp and Dermanyssus gallinae occurred with two individuals each. The most abundant gastrointestinal helminth parasite recorded was R. cesticillus while Choanotaenia infundibulum and A. galli occurred with intermediate abundances. The highest number (43, 35.83%) of ectoparasites was recorded in Ploceus cucullatus, Streptopelia roseogrisea was the most infected with gastrointestinal helminths (76, 69.72%). Some of the parasites recovered are of both economic and public health importance, thus they may affect the population and biodiversity of wild birds. These birds may therefore, serve as reservoirs of infection for man and his domestic animals. Keywords : Wild birds; prevalence; Columbicola columbae ; Raillietina cesticillus ; Plasmodium sp.

Aim: Helminth infections inflict negatively on the production and well-being of animals including poultry. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence, species diversity, intensity, and risk factors associated with the gastrointestinal helminths of intensively raised poultry in Kwara Central senatorial district of Kwara State. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 502 poultry species from 15 farms. The samples were subjected to floatation and the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration techniques of examination. The intensity of infections was determined using McMaster counting technique. Results: Seven helminth species were detected with Heterakis gallinarum (10.2%) and Ascaridia galli (6.0%) been the most prevalent, while Capillaria species was the least prevalent (0.8%). Physiological status, bird type, production purpose, farm age (years), presence of other animals in the farm, flock size (birds), farm size (acres), housing type, farm type, frequency of anthelmintic use, distance to waste area (meters), level of biosecurity, and frequency of cleaning the pen were the risk factors significantly (p

Fast growing broilers are less able to cope with fitness related challenges. As the allocation of metabolic resources may be traded off between performance and defence functions in parasitized hosts, we hypothesized that fast growing broilers are more sensitive to mixed nematode infections compared with slower growing genotypes under the same environmental conditions. Therefore, we compared male birds of genotypes selected for either meat production (Ross-308, R) or egg production (Lohmann Brown Plus, LB) or for both purposes (Lohmann Dual, LD), to assess their resistance and tolerance to mixed nematode infections with Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum. While infections reduced feed intake in all three genotypes, feed conversion efficiency was not affected. Infections impaired growth performance only in R birds, indicating lower tolerance in the fast growing genotype compared with slower growing LB and LD genotypes. Impaired tolerance in R birds was associated with a relative nutrient scarcity due to an infection-induced lower feed intake. Resistance to experimentally induced infections depended on host genotype as well as on the worm species involved. Overall, the A. galli burden was higher in R than LB, whereas the burden of LD was not different from that of R and LB. In contrast, the H. gallinarum burden of first generation worms was similar in the three genotypes. Susceptibility to re-infection with H. gallinarum was higher in LB than in LD, whereas very low levels of re-infection were observed in R birds. Our data collectively suggest that resistance and tolerance to mixed nematode infections are sensitive to growth rate in chickens. These differences amongst genotypes may partly be associated with a mismatch between the actual nutrient supply and genotype-specific nutrient requirements.

There is scarce data available on helminth infection of poultry in the region of Aswan province, Upper Egypt. A total of 276 poultry (156 baladi chickens and 120 domestic pigeons) were collected from different villages in Aswan province to screen the presence of intestinal helminths during the period from April 2016 to March 2017. The current investigation revealed that the overall prevalence was 55.79% (154/276). Additionally, 59.09% baladi chickens had mixed infections with four cestodes and three nematodes. Among cestodes, Raillietina tetragona was the most prevalent species (16.02%) followed by Raillietina echinobothrida (10.98%), Cotugnia digonopora (6.41%), and Raillietina cesticillus (1.28%). The most prevalent nematodal species were Heterakis gallinarum (15.38%), Ascaridia galli (8.97%), and Subulura brumpti (1.28%). In pigeons, 52.5% were found to be infected by four cestodes: Raillietina echinobothrida (22.5%), Cotugnia digonopora (13.33%), Raillietina tetragona (9.16%), and Raillietina cesticillus (3.33%) as well as one species of nematodes, Ascaridia columbae (9.16%). There was a close relationship between the occurrence of intestinal helminths and the age of domestic birds revealing that the high prevalence was found in adults rather than young birds. Meanwhile, it has been found that the highest prevalence was found in summer, while the lowest infection rate was recorded in winter. Further studies are needed to determine the effects of the parasites on the health and productivity of poultry in such area.

Ascaridia galli is one of the most abundant nematode parasites in poultry. A. galli infections can significantly impact the profitability of egg farms and have negative implications for bird health and welfare. The main objectives of this study were to determine whether A. galli specific antibodies in egg yolks can be used to detect prior or current exposure to A. galli in laying hens, and to distinguish between eggs obtained from caged and free-range hens. Twenty-two laying hen flocks from different production systems (10 free-range, 2 barn-housed, and 9 caged flocks) were enrolled in the study. An in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to analyze levels of A. galli specific antibodies in yolk. The numbers of A. galli eggs in hen excreta were also determined in a subset of farms. Free-range flocks had higher and also more variable levels of anti-A. galli antibodies in the egg yolk compared to those of the cage flocks (0.50 ± 0.39 vs. 0.16 ± 0.13 OD units) (P < 0.001). Results also confirmed that excreta from free-range and barn-housed flocks contained higher numbers of A. galli eggs than did excreta from caged flocks in which no A. galli eggs were detected. In conclusion, analysis of anti-A. galli antibodies in the egg yolk can be used to detect worm exposure in commercial layer flocks. However, the method used in this study cannot be used in isolation to distinguish between eggs from cage and free-range production systems as anti-A galli antibodies were detected in egg yolk samples from all production systems, and the range of antibody levels overlapped between production systems.

Gastrointestinal parasites of chickens are prevalent in many parts of the world including Ethiopia. This study was conducted with backyard chickens in Ambo, Holeta and, Dire Inchini in the West Shoa zone with the objectives of estimating the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infections, identifying the species present and determining associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted using 252 chickens purchased from local markets. Chickens were killed humanely and gastrointestinal tracts were examined for adult helminths. Identification of the helminths was performed using morphology and microscopy. The overall prevalence of helminth parasites in chickens was 92.1% (232/252) [95% confidence interval (CI): 88.0% - 95.1%]. 80.2% (204/252) [95% CI: 75.3% - 86.9%] and 77.8% (196/252) [95% CI: 72.1% - 82.8%] of chickens were infected with diverse nematode and cestode species, respectively. Parasitological examination revealed the presence of three nematode and five cestode species. Ascaridia galli (69.8%) and Heterakis gallinarum (13.5%) were the dominant nematode species and Railletina tetragona (54.0%) and Railletina echinobothrida (46.8%) were the most prevalent species of cestodes identified. A significant difference (p .05) was observed between the prevalence of nematode parasites and sex, age, and origin of the chicken. Similarly, sex and origin of the chickens were significantly different with the prevalence of cestode infections. Higher prevalence was observed in male versus female chickens, in young versus adult chickens and in chickens from Holeta and Direinchin compared to Ambo. In contrast, weight, health status, diarrhea status, and age (for cestodes) were not significantly associated with nematode and cestode infection. In conclusion, the present study detected a high prevalence of diverse types of gastrointestinal helminths in backyard chickens, which could result in poor health and reduce productivity. Therefore, the present study strongly suggests appropriate and strategic control of helminthiasis to improve the health and output of backyard chickens in the study areas.

During the study period of two years the prevalence of helminth parasites in domestic fowl from Gurez valley were analysed. A total of 137 domestic fowl were examined for helminth parasites from May 2013 to April 2015. A high rate of helminth infection (40.14%) was observed. One cestode Raillitina tetragona and two nematodes, Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum were encountered during the study period. High prevalence of infection was observed during summer (41.86%) followed by autumn (34.21%), spring (33.33%) and winter (30.76%). Males (36.96%) were more infected than females (34.37%). The young ones were more infected than adults. Nematodes were more prevalent than cestodes.

This report describes Ascaridia nymphii n. sp., a new species isolated from the alimentary tract of cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus in Japan. More than 63 nematodes were found in the formalin-fixed small intestine, ventriculus, proventriculus and crop of a 48-day-old young cockatiel that died after exhibiting severe emaciation. No nematode eggs were observed in the faecal examination performed while the cockatiel was alive, but Cryptosporidium oocysts were found. The intestinal mucosa was damaged considerably. Male worms had two alate spicules, well-developed precloacal sucker and a tail with ventrolateral caudal alae and mainly 11 pairs of papillae. Nuclear partial (813 bp) 18S ribosomal RNA gene (18S rDNA) sequences obtained from two female samples were mutually identical. They respectively showed 99.1 and 98.6% identities to those from Ascaridia numidae and Ascaridia galli. Phylogenetic analysis using this locus indicated the present nematode as Ascaridia species. The mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (nad2) sequences obtained for four samples were mutually identical. They respectively showed 98.7, 85.7 and 82.2% identities with those from Ascaridia columbae, Ascaridia sp. and A. galli. Combining the morphological and sequencing data from two loci, the present nematode was identified as A. nymphii n. sp., which is closely related with A. columbae. This report is the first of a study examining the distribution of Ascaridia species in captive parrots in Japan. This study also identified the trachea and cloaca, like Cryptosporidium baileyi, as the possible location of Cryptosporidium avian genotype V in avian hosts.

Objective To determine the gastrointestinal tract helminthic fauna in domestic and wild guineafowl in Zambia. Methods Post-mortem and laboratory parasitological examinations for helminth identification and enumeration were conducted on 198 guineafowls (148 domestic and 50 wild) from November 2010 to October 2011. Results All guineafowls were infested with one or more helminths. Eleven helminth species, namely, Raillietina echinobothrida, Raillietina tetragona, Raillietina cesticillus, Ascaridia galli, Allodapa suctoria, Gongylonema ingluvicola, Tetrameres spp., Heterakis spp., Acuaria spiralis, Syngamus trachea, and Streptocara pectinifera were identified with no trematodes recorded. Mean nematode burden between domestic and wild fowl showed no differences having 113.7 [confidence interval (CI) 98.9–128.6] and 108 (CI 76.6–139.5) nematodes respectively. In contrast, female guineafowls had a mean of 151.9 (CI 128.4–177.8) nematodes per host which was significantly more than the males that had a mean of 79.6 (CI 66.8–94.4). However, there were differences in helminth species richness between domestic and wild guineafowls with domestic guineafowls having more species present at a mean of 4.2 (CI 3.91–4.44) than the wild ones at a mean of 3.4 (CI 2.92–3.88) but there were no sex differences. Eight of the eleven helminth species co-occurred in domestic and wild fowl and five of the helminth species had higher prevalence in domestic guineafowls. Conclusions Syngamus trachea, Streptocara pectinifera and Acuaria spiralis are reported for the first time in domestic poultry in Zambia. This study represents the first comparative study of helminths in domestic and wild guineafowls at an interface area and adds to the knowledge base in a discipline where a dearth currently exists.

Aim Studies on the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths infection in Banaraja fowls of three blocks (Chandua, Shamakhunta and Bangriposi) of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha with respect to semi-intensive system of rearing. Materials and methods A total of 160 Banaraja birds (30 males and 130 females) belonging to two age groups (below 1 month age and above 1 month) were examined for the presence of different species of gastrointestinal helminth infection over a period of 1-year. The method of investigation included collection of fecal sample and gastrointestinal tracts, examination of fecal sample of birds, collection of parasites from different part of gastrointestinal tract, counting of parasites, and examination of the collected parasites by standard parasitological techniques followed by morphological identification as far as possible up to the species level. Results Overall, 58.75% birds were found infected with various gastrointestinal helminths. Total five species of parasites were detected that included Ascaridia galli (25.63%), Heterakis gallinarum (33.75%), Raillietina tetragona (46.25%), Raillietina echinobothrida (11.87%), and Echinostoma revolutum (1.87%). Both single (19.15%) as well as mixed (80.85%) infection were observed. Highest incidence of infection was observed during rainy season (68.88%) followed by winter (66.66%) and least in summer season (41.81%). Sex-wise incidence revealed slightly higher occurrence among females (59.23%) than males (56.67%). Age-wise prevalence revealed that chicks were more susceptible (77.77%) than adults (51.30%) to gastrointestinal helminths infection. Conclusions Present study revealed that mixed infection with gastrointestinal helminths of different species was more common than infection with single species and season-wise prevalence was higher in rainy season followed by winter and summer. Chicks were found to be more prone to this parasitic infection and a slight higher prevalence among female birds was observed.

This study was conducted to determine the effect of Ascaridia galli infection on free-range laying hens. Lohmann Brown laying hens (n = 200) at 17 wk of age were allocated to 4 treatment groups (n = 50 per group), each with 5 replicate pens of 10 hens. Hens in 3 treatment groups were orally inoculated with different doses of embryonated A. galli eggs: low (250 eggs), medium (1,000 eggs), and high (2,500 eggs) levels, whereas hens of the control group were not infected. Infection levels were monitored using excreta egg counts and mature A. galli worm counts in the intestine. Anti A. galli antibody titers (IgY) in the serum were measured prior to infection, and at 6, 11, 15, and 20 wk post infection (PI) and in egg yolk at 11 and 20 wk PI. Parameters evaluated included feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg mass, FCR, liver weight, liver fat, and intra epithelial immune cell infiltration. The results showed no difference in feed intake, body weight, or FCR among any treatment groups (P > 0.05). Egg production was lower in the low infection group compared to other groups at 20 wk of age (P

1. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2015 to July 2016 in South Tyrol, Northern Italy to examine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in free-range laying hens under mountain farming production conditions. 2. A total of 280 laying hens from 14 free-range mountain farms (4 organic, 10 conventional) were randomly collected at the end of the laying period. Faecal samples were taken to analyse faecal egg counts (FEC) and faecal oocyst counts (FOC). The gastrointestinal tracts were removed post mortem and examined for the presence of helminths. 3. In faeces, FEC values averaged 258 eggs per g of faeces, which were dominated by Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum. Mean FOC was 80 oocysts/g. In the gastrointestinal tract, at least one nematode species was found in 99.3% of the examined hens. H. gallinarum was the most prevalent nematode (95.7%), followed by Capillaria spp. (66.8%) and A. galli (63.6%). Thirty per cent of the chickens were infected with cestodes (tapeworms). Correlation coefficients between worm counts of H. gallinarum, Capillaria spp. and A. galli ranged from 0.41 to 0.51. 5. The helminth prevalence did not differ between conventional and organic farms, whereas total worm burden was higher in organic compared with conventional farms (318.9 vs. 112.0). Prevalence and infection intensity did not differ between farms that used anthelmintic treatments and those that did not. 6. In conclusion, free-range laying hens under the studied mountain farming conditions are at high risk of nematode infection, especially in organic systems. The vast majority of hens are subclinical infected with at least one helminth species.

Among several diseases, gastrointestinal parasites affect poultry production through retarded growth and reduced productivity. The severity varies according to management system and associated predisposing factors. Epidemiology of chicken gastrointestinal helminths were studied using coprological and necropsy examination, with the objectives to estimate the prevalence, identify species of helminths and associated predisposing factors in Haromaya town from November 2011 to April 2012. Fecal samples from selected chicken were collected from both intensive and extensive farms. Coprological examination on 384 chicken and 24 post mortem examinations were conducted. Out of 384 samples examined, 51.8% were positive of which a high prevalence of 110(28.6%) Ascaridia galli followed by 33(8.6%) of Heterakis gallinarum , 11(2.8%) of Raillietina species and 44(11.5%) mixed infection were recovered. Factors for the occurrence of GIT helminths were investigated using logistic regression models; where each assumed predisposing factor analyzed using uni-variable and followed by multi-variable logistic regression to determine the interaction and power of influence among factors. Accordingly, statistically significant difference ( p

This study was carried out to identify and estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasites of poultry in Iwo local council of Osun state, Nigeria. A total of 250 layers comprising of 75 chicks, 100 growers and 75 adults were examined from five different poultry houses between April and July 2016 in different areas during the survey. Our finding showed that 62% were infected with different species of parasites. Parasites identified includes Ascaridia galli ; coccidian; Heterakis gallinae (C ecal worm); Syngamus trachea (Gapeworms); Capillaria annulata (Thread worm) and Tape worm. Among the helminthes, Ascaridia, galli was the most dominant species (17.2%). Generally, there was a significantly higher coccidia infestation relative to the helminthes ( P < .05). Infection was greater among adults. There was no significance in prevalence of infection in relation to the location of poultry houses. There was high prevalence of mixed infections. Parasitism could be a big constraint to production in the study area and we recommend a sustainable control strategy. Keywords: Prevalence; Risk factors; Gastrointestinal Parasites; Stocking density; Water source; Poultry

With little known pharmacological potentials, Imperata cylindrica is infamous as an invasive grass. But to the Mizo people, the rhizome-root part is a convenient and potent remedy for intestinal helminthiasis. It is an acclaimed effective deworming agent against both tapeworm and roundworm infections, which makes it more interesting for the fact that antiparasitic drugs are usually active against a particular group of helminthic worms. GC-MS analysis of the chloroform extract indicated the presence of 13 volatile compounds, among which trans-13-Octadecenoic acid was by far, at relative abundance of 98.4%, the most abundant. There were 17 compounds in the petroleum ether extract with n-hexadecanoic acid at relative abundance of 99.7% is the major compound. Biologically active compounds such as 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, 6-methylenebicyclo [3.2.0] hept-3-en-2-one, campesterol, and stigmasterol were detected. An in vitro test showed that both the extracts were effective against the tapeworm Raillietina echinobothrida but only the chloroform at the highest concentration (20 mg/ml) was effective on the roundworm Ascaridia galli. These data imply that the plant extracts are a potential source of antiparasitic compounds.

The present study was conducted for 1 year from March 2010 to February 2011 to identify gastro-intestinal parasites of backyard chickens and to estimate its prevalence in and around Shimoga, a malnad region of Karnataka. A total of 250 gastro-intestinal tracts were collected from backyard chickens for the detection of gastrointestinal parasites. Among the 250 birds screened, 183 (73.2 %) were found positive for gastrointestinal parasites by gross examination of gastrointestinal tract. Out of 183 positive cases, 94 (51.36 %) were found positive for cestodes, includes 73 (77.6 %) Raillietina tetragona, 12 (12.8 %) Raillietina echinobothrida and 9 (9.6 %) Raillietina cesticillus. Whereas, 53 (28.96 %) were found harbouring nematode parasites includes 33 (62.3 %) had Ascaridia galli, 12 (22.6 %) had Heterakis gallinarum and 8 (15.1 %) had both A. galli and H. gallinarum infection. The remaining 36 (19.67 %) had mixed infections of both cestode and nematode parasites. The microscopic examination of the gut contents and faecal samples showed presence of coccidian oocysts and eggs of A. galli, H. gallinarum and Capillaria spp. respectively.