The First Detection of Abomasal Nematode Ashworthius sidemi in Fallow Deer (Dama dama) in Russia.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to supplement the data concerning the spreading of nematode Ashworthius sidemi among wild ruminants in Russia. The samples of A. sidemi were collected from two fallow deer, which were born and raised in the game farm in Smolensk region (55° 16' N-34° 29' E). The affiliation of the detected nematodes as A. sidemi was made using morphological features (shape of the spicules and the dorsal ray of bursa for males, as well as the presence and shape of the neodont in the buccal cavity for males and females). The intensity of infection in 2 studied fallow deer was 7 and 19 individuals of A. sidemi. All of the specimens of A. sidemi had the features of juvenile forms. The registration of fallow deer as another one host of A. sidemi in Russia indicates a further spreading of this nematode and confirms the necessity of strengthening the control of this parasite. The finding of this nematode in non-native captive animals shows the imperfection of control in this sphere. A. sidemi could have been introduced to the game farm both with imported or with native animals due to insufficient quarantine and isolation. More wide further research would be useful in the light of control this potentially dangerous parasite.