Search

Sixteen horses were sampled at a livestock center from Santa Clara, Cuba, to find out Gasterophilus spp. intensity and extension. Data were statistically processed through the Statgraphics plus 5.1 software. Out of the 16 horses examined, 12 were infested by this parasite in a 75 % extension range. Total intensity rate amounted 1 122 parasites, i.e., 93 parasites per animal. Thus, economic losses were remarkable due to the high levels of Gasterophilus spp. intensity and extension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixteen horses of different ages and body weights were slaughtered at a livestock center to assess parasitosis intensity and extension caused by Anoplocephala perfoliata. Small and large intestines were examined. In terms of parasitic invasion, results revealed an extension rate of 87,5 %, while intensity rate fluctuated between 80 and 450 parasites per animal. Taking into account that each horse was purchased at a price of 1 800 pesos (national currency), but its value dropped by 25 % after being infested by A. perfoliata, such a loss amounted 7 200 pesos for the 16 horses. These findings are consistent with the higher levels of parasitic infection detected in horses under current conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]