Ascaridia Columbae Research Articles

Morphological, ultrastructural, and phylogenetic analysis of Ascaridia columbae infecting domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica).

Ascaridia species are the most common nematodes infecting pigeons. The current study investigated specific identity of nematode parasites collected from domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Al-Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. Out of 354 pigeons, 13.3 % were infected with nematode parasites. The morphological structure and genetic relationship of nematode worms were studied using conventional methods (Light and scanning electron microscopes) coupled with the newly introduced molecular method. Microscopical and ultrastructure observations showed that the present nematode worms belong to the genus Ascaridia and have all the characteristic features of Ascaridia columbae. Moreover, Random Amplifier morphometric (RAPD) PCR analysis revealed that the present A. columbae had a close identity of up to 98.3 % to Ascaridia columbae JX624729 for Cox-1 gene regions, and up to 98.3 % to Ascaridia nymphii LC057210, and Ascaridia galli EF180058 for ITS1-5.8s- ITS2 rDNA gene regions. Phylogenetic analysis supported the placement of this Ascaridia species within Ascaridiidae family with close relationships to other nematode species obtained from GenBank. Finally, our study recommends using molecular analysis in helminths identification as the main methodology for correct identification especially in closely related species.

Intestinal helminthic parasites in Columba livia (Columbiformes: Columbidae) in southern Brazil: do seasons influence helminth infections in the Neotropical region?

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze intestinal helminthic infections in pigeons Columba livia Gmelin, 1789 (Columbiformes: Columbidae) which were collected in three different seasons in southern Brazil. Material and methods: Ninety birds (hosts) were captured in the urban area in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul (RS) state, Brazil, in autumn, winter and spring in 2018 and 2019. Results: Helminths species and their prevalences were: Ascaridia columbae (33.33%), Baruscapillaria obsignata (23.33%) (Nematoda), Brachylaima mazzantii (3.33%) (Digenea), Skrjabinia sp. (11.11%) and Killigrewia sp. (3.33%) (Cestoda). Prevalence and mean intensity of infection in the three collection periods did not show any significant difference, except A. columbae, which was more prevalent in autumn than in spring. Conclusion: Results showed that abiotic and environmental conditions found in the region were suitable for the development of intestinal helminths associated with C. livia in the sampling periods in southern Brazil.

PREVALENCE OF DIGESTIVE ENDOPARASITES (HELMINTH AND PROTOZOA) IN PIGEON DOMESTIC (Columba livia) MALE AND FEMALE IN TUBAN

This research was conducted to determine the prevalence of major gastrointestinal helminthiasis and protozoal infections, the kinds of helminth and protozoa that infects and the effect of sex on pigeons in Tuban. Pigeons are taken from five The Tuban area is Widang, Montong, Jenu, Soko, Jatirogo. Each area is taken as many as 20 pigeons consists of 10 male pigeons and 10 female pigeons. Laboratory examinations were carried out in November to December 2021. Samples were examined by the native method, sedimentation, and flotation. Identification using a microscope using a 40x objective scale and 10x ocular scale. Data analysis using chi square test statistical analysis. 81% of the samples were positive for helminthiasis infection. Chi square test statistical analysis showed p value 0.022 (p<0.05) which means significantly different. 71% of samples were positive for gastrointestinal protozoa infection in pigeons in Tuban. Chi square test Results Statistical analysis shows p the value of 0.123 (p>0.05) which means that it is not significantly different. Type of protozoa found that Heterakis gallinarum (45%), Ascaridia columbae (42%), Capillaria sp. (41%), and Eimeria sp. (71%). That prevalence of helminthiasis in male pigeons higher (45%) compared to female pigeons (36%).

Incidence of gastrointestinal parasites in pigeons with an assessment of the nematocidal activity of chitosan nanoparticles against Ascaridia columbae

In this investigation, the incidence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites of domestic pigeons were evaluated, additionally, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of the antiparasitic activity of chitosan nanoparticles against the most predominant gut parasite. Therefore, 240 domestic pigeons (160 adults and 80 squabs) obtained from different localities in Giza governorate, Egypt, from February to July 2021, were subjected to parasitological and postmortem examination. The results revealed that 97% of pigeons were vulnerable to single or mixed gastrointestinal parasites. The detected helminths were identified as Capillaria columbae (C. columbae) with a total incidence of (12.5%), Ascaridia columbae (A. columbae) (83.3.%), Heterakis gallinarum (H. gallinarum) (18.7%), Raillietina cesticillus (R. cesticillus) (7.5%), Raillietina echinobothrida (R. echinobothrida) (29%), Choanotaenia infundibulum (C. infundibulum) (22.9%), Davainea proglottina (D. proglottina) (26.6%), and Cotugnia proglottina (C. proglottina) (14.5%). At the same time, the identified protozoan parasites were Trichomonas gallinae (T. gallinae), and Eimeria columbae (E. columbae), with a total incidence of 25 and 79%, respectively. Helminths and Eimeria infections were higher in adults than squabs, while T. gallinae infection was reported with a higher incidence in squabs (62.5%) than adults (6.2%). From our findings, A. columbae was the most predominant gut parasite in the examined pigeons. Thus, it was subjected to in vitro and in vivo treatment with chitosan nanoparticles. Serum and tissue samples were collected from the birds which have been used in the in vitro study to evaluate the oxidative stress markers as malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric oxide levels and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-1β activity also, chitosan nanoparticles- treated worm ultrastructure were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Finally, we recommend periodic monitoring of pigeon's farm to detect the parasitic infestation, and from our results, we recommend chitosan nanoparticles as a potent nematocidal agent.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Ascaridia columbae in the domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) and the assessment of its immunological responses

Parasitism is a divesting problem that is frequently overlooked and may result in severe prominent clinical manifestation. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal and sexual prevalence of the gastrointestinal nematode Ascaridia columbae (A. columbae) infection among domestic pigeons in Giza governorate, Egypt, during the period from 2020 to 2021. One hundred and sixty suspected pigeons were clinically investigated. Blood & tissue samples were collected from infected birds to estimate serum zinc concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide levels. As well as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL1β) activity, and histopathological examination were estimated; also, worms were collected for morphological identification using electron microscope (SEM) and molecularly identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), further sequenced, and submitted in GenBank with accession number MZ343369. The average ascarid (length × breadth) were 72.4 ± 3.3 µm (70.5 – 79.9 µm) × 39.9 ± 2.5 µm (37.6 – 42.3 µm). The distinguishing morphological characteristics that have been noticed in ascarid worms were creamy white, cylindrical worm with triradiate lips with wide cephalic alae extending on both the lateral sides and filariform esophagus. In males, spicules were almost equal with the presence of precloacal chitinous-rimmed sucker. The prevalence of A. columbae infection was (63.1%) with a higher incidence in females (79.2%) than males (46.1%). The highest seasonal prevalence was observed in winter (92.5%), followed by summer and spring (87.5% and 55%), respectively while, the lowest prevalence was observed in autumn (17.5%). The intensity of worms in the infected intestine varied from 5 to 120 adult worms. The histopathological examination revealed the presence of chronic diffuse moderate catarrhal enteritis with roundworms in the lumen. Infected birds showed a significant increase in nitric oxide and MDA levels while serum zinc levels were lowered in infected pigeons. Infected pigeons revealed a marked increase in IL1-β and TNFα than apparently healthy ones.

Endoparasitoses of the Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) on the northern Black Sea coast of Ukraine

One of the main tasks of ecological parasitology at the present stage is to determine patterns of spread of invasive diseases of poultry in the environment through a thorough epidemiological examination, as well as to determine the main directions and factors of spread of parasites in Ukraine. Some pigeon health problems can affect their populations, but parasitic infections play an important role. Our research found that 83.3% of Eurasian collared doves examined (Streptopelia decaocto) were affected by endoparasites. The commonest helminths were Raillietina spp. with the average invasion intensity of 4.9 ± 1.3 specimens/ind., Baruscapillaria spp. and Ascaridia columbae with an invasion intensity of 4.6 ± 1.5 and 3.7 ± 2.1 specimens/ind., respectively. The commonest cestodes were Raillietina spp. with the extent of invasion of 52.2% and Davainea proglottina – 6.7%. The Amoebotaenia cuneata cestodes were recorded in 3 (3.3%) doves, and Echinolepis carioca – only in 2 (2.2%) doves. Six doves (6.7%) were infected with the nematode Ascaridia columbae and 5 (5.6%) – Baruscapillaria spp. Eimerian oocysts were found in 9 (10%) collared doves, and Trichomonas gallinae was recorded in 15 (16.7%) birds. According to the results of helminthological autopsy and identification of the isolated pathogens, 8 varieties of mixinvasions were identified. In association with the Rayetins, there were the protozoa Eimeria spp. and Trichomonas gallinae and the nematode Ascaridia columbae. Two-component invasions were registered in 78.6% of doves, three-component infestations in 14.3% and four-component infestations in 7.1% of birds. Mixed infection with Raillietina spp. + Ascaridia columbae was found in the small intestine of Streptopelia decaocto, which was also pathomorphologically observed to have catarrhal-hemorrhagic enteritis, which was accompanied by the formation of a large number of spotted hemorrhages on the mucous membrane, and in the places of attachment of cestodes - necrotic-caseous areas. Temperature and other weather conditions such as humidity, precipitation, etc. of the northern Black Sea coast affect the population size of intermediate host cestodes. Continuous monitoring of invasive diseases of pigeons of different species will help to take the necessary preventive measures against endoparasitoses of birds.

Endoparasitoses of the Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) on the northern Black Sea coast of Ukraine

One of the main tasks of ecological parasitology at the present stage is to determine patterns of spread of invasive diseases of poultry in the environment through a thorough epidemiological examination, as well as to determine the main directions and factors of spread of parasites in Ukraine. Some pigeon health problems can affect their populations, but parasitic infections play an important role. Our research found that 83.3% of Eurasian collared doves examined (Streptopelia decaocto) were affected by endoparasites. The commonest helminths were Raillietina spp. with the average invasion intensity of 4.9 ± 1.3 specimens/ind., Baruscapillaria spp. and Ascaridia columbae with an invasion intensity of 4.6 ± 1.5 and 3.7 ± 2.1 specimens/ind., respectively. The commonest cestodes were Raillietina spp. with the extent of invasion of 52.2% and Davainea proglottina – 6.7%. The Amoebotaenia cuneata cestodes were recorded in 3 (3.3%) doves, and Echinolepis carioca – only in 2 (2.2%) doves. Six doves (6.7%) were infected with the nematode Ascaridia columbae and 5 (5.6%) – Baruscapillaria spp. Eimerian oocysts were found in 9 (10%) collared doves, and Trichomonas gallinae was recorded in 15 (16.7%) birds. According to the results of helminthological autopsy and identification of the isolated pathogens, 8 varieties of mixinvasions were identified. In association with the Rayetins, there were the protozoa Eimeria spp. and Trichomonas gallinae and the nematode Ascaridia columbae. Two-component invasions were registered in 78.6% of doves, three-component infestations in 14.3% and four-component infestations in 7.1% of birds. Mixed infection with Raillietina spp. + Ascaridia columbae was found in the small intestine of Streptopelia decaocto, which was also pathomorphologically observed to have catarrhal-hemorrhagic enteritis, which was accompanied by the formation of a large number of spotted hemorrhages on the mucous membrane, and in the places of attachment of cestodes - necrotic-caseous areas. Temperature and other weather conditions such as humidity, precipitation, etc. of the northern Black Sea coast affect the population size of intermediate host cestodes. Continuous monitoring of invasive diseases of pigeons of different species will help to take the necessary preventive measures against endoparasitoses of birds.

ENDOPARASITES IN THE SYNANTHROPIC FERAL PIGEON (COLUMBA LIVIA DOMESTICA) IN SOUTHERN ECUADOR.

Parasitic infections are frequent in cosmopolitan feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica) that live in cities, but little is known about the effects of parasites in urban feral pigeon populations. A survey was conducted to evaluate the occurrence of endoparasites and the risk factors of feral pigeons in the city of Loja in southern Ecuador between August and October 2019. A total of 166 fecal samples and 80 peripheral blood smears were collected and examined by the McMaster flotation method and Giemsa staining, respectively. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 79.51% (132/166). Parasites included: Ascaridia columbae in 13.64% (18/132), Capillaria sp. in 3.79% (5/132), Eimeria sp. in 25% (33/132), unidentified coccidia in 75% (99/132), and an unidentified nematode egg in 0.7% (1/132). The presence of intracellular gamonts of Haemoproteus sp. was found in 87.50% (70/80) of examined blood smears. The frequency and intensity of nematodes were different according to the site. Haemoproteus infection was more frequent in individuals with low body mass index. More research should be undertaken to understand parasitic infections and their effects on cosmopolitan synanthropic feral pigeons.

First Data on Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infection in the Red-Legged Partridge (Alectoris rufa) in Italy

The Red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) is a Mediterranean Galliformes, recently classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, due to the constant and significant decline of its global population. While the gastrointestinal parasites of the species are well studied in some part of its range (Iberian peninsula), limited information is available for the Italian populations, that represent the eastern limit of the species range. This study was conducted to fill this gap of knowledge, determining the composition, richness, prevalence, intensity and abundance of A. rufa gastrointestinal parasite community in two populations in Italy. During the autumn seasons 2008–2009 and 2009–2010, necropsies were conducted on 18 Red-legged partridge from the southern part of Alessandria province (Piedmont, northwestern Italy) and 34 from the Parma province (Emilia Romagna, northern Italy). All the animals were examined for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites. Additionally, 229 fecal samples were collected from live animals in Alessandria province. Prevalence, abundance and intensity of infection were calculated for each parasite species, except for coccidia for which only the prevalence was determined. The following parasites were observed: Heterakis gallinarum, Ascaridia spp., Ascaridia columbae, Raillietina spp., Eimeria spp. The highest parasite prevalence was found in Alessandria province for Eimeria sp., infecting almost half of the sampled animals (P: 45%, CI95%: 39–51). Eimeria sp. was also the most prevalent parasite in Parma province but with much lower prevalence (P: 19%, CI95%: 5–32). Intestinal helminths prevalence ranged from 3% (CI95%: 0–9) for A. columbae and Raillietina spp. (Parma Province) to 9% for H. gallinarum in both Parma (CI95%: 0–19), and Alessandria province (CI95%: 0–22). To our knowledge, this is the first study providing information on the gastrointestinal parasites of the Red-legged partridge in Italy. Ascaridia columbae, a parasite typical of the domestic pigeon, was reported for the first time in A. rufa. The epidemiological descriptors reported herein could serve as a basis for future studies, allowing for epidemiological comparison across countries, locations, and time periods.

Parasites of domestic and wild pigeons in the south of Ukraine

Pigeons are closely related to human life and are both a source of food and object for hobbies and sports. Parasitic diseases of birds are the main reason for their growth retardation, reduced productivity and viability. The article presents the results of studying the prevalence of trichomonosis, cestodes and nematodes among the population of wild and domestic pigeons in the south of Ukraine. According to the results of the conducted researches it is established that in the south of Ukraine endoparasitoses of domestic and wild pigeons are quite widespread, and all species of this bird are carriers of Trichomonas gallinae. At the same time, the highest rate of Trichomonas infection was recorded in Columba palambus and C. livia domestica, and the overall infestation of males is higher by 4.4% compared to females. It was determined that domestic pigeons C. livia domestica were infested with trichomonosis (27.5%) and nematodes (Ascaridia columbae, 57.1%), C. palambus – trichomonosis (32.1%) and cestodes (Raillietina spp., 82.4%), Streptopelia turtur – cestodes (Raillietina spp., 12.5%) and S. decaocto – cestodes (Raillietina spp., 71.4%) and nematodes (Heterakis gallinarum, A. columbae – 33.3% and 44.4% respectively). The overall rate of infestation of pigeons with cestodes was 28.4% and the incidence in males was higher by 3.9% compared to females. It was found that the most common species among pigeon cestodes is Raillietina spp. In addition, 22.9% of pigeons are carriers of nematodes (H. gallinarum, A. columbae and Capillaria spp.). Continuous monitoring of pigeon parasites is necessary because they, in most cases, come into contact with other species of poultry and are a source of general invasion. In terms of further research, it would be promising to study the prevalence of helminthic infestation among wild migratory birds.

The role of Ascaridia columbae in bioremediation of heavy metal accumulation in Columba livia tissues

The role of Ascaridia columbae in bioremediation of heavy metal accumulation in Columba livia tissues

The role of Ascaridia columbae in bioremediation of heavy metal accumulation in Columba livia tissues

Pigeons are susceptible to various pollutants. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of nematode parasites in the bioremediation of metal accumulation in domestic pigeon Columba livia. A total of 26 domestic pigeons from poultry farm in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; were collected randomly. The concentration of elements in infected and non-infected pigeons was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The levels of the metal varied that depending on different tissues. During this study, zinc was measured as the dominant metal. Overall, the results showed that all heavy metals concentrations in liver samples were significantly higher than in other pigeon tissues. Nematodes have been collected and described in the intestinal tract of pigeons. The results showed that intestinal nematode parasites in the tissues of infected pigeons caused a significant decrease in metal concentrations compared to non-infected ones. Bioaccumulation factors have shown that nematode parasites have a higher concentration potential than pigeon tissues. Adult nematode infection in domestic pigeons is considered a biomarker of heavy metal contamination, and its presence reduced the biosynthesis of heavy metals in pigeon tissues.

Parasitic infection status of different native species of Columbidae family in southwest of Iran

In current investigation, for the first time, prevalence of parasites in different native members of columbidae family were studied carefully in Shahrekord, located in southwest of Iran. Totally 220 birds from 4 different species were examined for presence of every ectoparasites and endoparasites by use of identification keys for parasites. After preparation of blood smears, oral cavity and crop wet smears, feces samples and their direct smears, flotation of feces and evisceration of examined birds, isolation and identification of parasites were done via laboratory methods and identification keys. Results of current study show the occurrence and prevalence of different parasites in examined groups. The common blood parasite with highest prevalence is Haemoproteous columbae in Rock pigeons (27.27%). The highest prevalence of Leukocytozoon marchouxi is for Rock Pigeons (5.54%). Columbicola columbae is the common ectoparsite with highest prevalence in Rock pigeons (56.36%), the highest prevalence of Menopon gallinae is for Rock Pigeons (21.81%), also the highest prevalence of Pseudolynchia canariensis and Lipeurus caponis are for Rock pigeons (36.36% and 16.36% respectively). The highest prevalence of Trichomonas gallinae is for Rock pigeons (67.27%). The highest prevalence of Eimeria labbeana is for Laughing Doves (30.90%). Highest prevalence of Cryptosporidium meleagridis is for Rock pigeons (3.63%) and the highest prevalence Echinostoma revolutum is for Rock Pigeons (20%). Ascaridia columbae has the highest prevalence in Domestic Pigeons (25.45%). The highest prevalence of Ascaridia galli, Raillietina echinobothrida and Raillietina tetragona are for Rock Pigeons (7.27%, 18.18% and 12.72% respectively). Results of current study for the first time show the considerable level of parasitic infections in the examined groups in this area.

Molecular identification of Ascaridia columbae in the Local Healthy Pigeon (Columba livia domestica, Gmelin, 1780) in Karbala Province

The current study was conducted to investigate dissemination of gastrointestinal Ascariasis in local pigeons (Columba livia domestica) living in Kerbala province. Forty domestic pigeons with different ages were purchased from different markets. Each bird was examined for intestinal parasites. Out of 40 birds examined, the prevalence of gastrointestinal Ascariasis in examined birds were ( 12.5% ), Ascaris sp. was detected in 100% of intestinal contents using macroscopic and microscopic examination assays, molecular diagnosis from bird belly, with the emphasis on primer designed specificity it used in our study.

Morphological and Molecular Characteristics of the Gastro-Intestinal Nematode Parasite Ascaridia columbae Infecting the Domestic Pigeon Columba livia domestica in Saudi Arabia.

Parasitism is a complex problem that is often ignored in companion animals, including birds, unless it develops into a severe clinical disorder. The present study was, therefore, aimed to investigate the presence of the gastrointestinal nematode infecting the domestic pigeon and provide a complete morphological description and clarify its taxonomic position through phylogenetic analysis of the ITS1-5.8s-ITS2 rDNA gene region. During the current study, a total of twenty-six domestic pigeons, Columba livia domestica, were collected and internal organs examined for helminth detection. Using light and scanning electron microscopy, the recovered parasite species are studied. In addition, the selected gene region was obtained and sequenced using appropriate primers that aid in the formation of the phylogenetic dendrogram for the recovered parasite species with others retrieved from GenBank. Morphological examination showed that this nematode parasite belongs to the Ascaridiidae family within the genus Ascaridia. The material was assigned to the previously described Ascaridia columbae by providing all the characteristic features as the presence of a mouth opening surrounded by three tri-lobed lips; each lip has two triangular teeth with a spoon-like structure, cephalic papillae and amphidal pores on lips surface, presence of lateral cuticular alae and pre-cloacal sucker, 10 pairs of caudal papillae, and two equal spicules in male worms. The morphological investigations of this species were supplemented by molecular analysis of ITS1-5.8s-ITS2 rDNA gene region. The data showed that the present A. coulmbae is deeply embedded in the Ascaridia genus with a 74-99% sequence similarity to other species in the Chromadorea class. Ascaridiidae appears as monophyly and represented as a sister group to Heterakidae. The ascaridiid species examined belong to the Ascaridia genus and displaced a close relationship with the previously described A. coulmbae (gb| KF147909.1, gb| AJ001509.1, gb| KC905082.1, gb| JQ995321.1, gb| JX624729.1) as putative sister taxa. The present study revealed that the species Ascaridia is the first account of this genus as an endoparasite from the domestic pigeon inhabiting Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the combination of morphological and molecular studies helps to identify this species correctly and identified as Ascaridia columbae.

Chemotherapy of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases in domestic pigeons (Columba livia) in Rajshahi division of Bangladesh

The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in pigeon (columba livia) at Rajshahi division from 01-01-2016 to 15-12-2016 and to evaluate the comparative efficacy piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. Total 3 different species of parasites were recorded in this study and those were Ascaridia columbae, Capillilaria obsignata, Raillietina tetragona. Out of 263 pigeon, 109 pigeon having ascarid and capillaria positive were treatment with piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. The pigeon were treated with recommended (10g mixed in 6 litre drinking water for 100 pigeon) dose of Ascarex® and recommended (1gm mixed in 1 litre drinking water) dose of Avinex® orally, respectively. The recovery rate of ascariasis at 7th days was 50.9% and capillariasis was 51.85%. After 21th days the recovery rate of ascariasis was 72.72% and capillariasis was 66.66%. The efficacy of drugs is more in case of young (77.27% at 7th days and 87.36% at 21th days) than adult (44.82% at 7th days and 65.51% at 21th days).In exotic breeds efficacy is good (60.41% at 7th days and 85.41% at 21th days) than indigenous breeds (44.26% at 7th days and 66.65% at 21th days). The recovery rate is more in traditional (65.3% at 7th days and 78.33% at 21th days) than commercial farming system (42.85% at 7th days and 58.33% at 21th days).
 Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 323-328, August 2019

Prevalence of intestinal helminth parasites of pigeons (Columba livia domestica Gmelin 1789) in Kano State, North-Western Nigeria.

In Nigeria, helminths have over the last decades been established as important parasite of poultry including pigeons. However, the prevalence of these parasites of pigeons in Kano State is yet to be established. The prevalence of helminth parasites of domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) in Kano State, Nigeria was investigated in this study. The differences in the prevalence of infection between the pigeons examined on the basis of sex of the pigeon and season of the year were analyzed statistically using the students' "t" -test. The intestinal contents of 144 pigeons were examined for gastrointestinal helminths between February and April representing the dry season and between June and August for the wet season. Pigeons were grouped according to Squabs (chicks) (0-4 weeks), Squeakers (Juveniles) (5-8 weeks) and Youngsters (Adults) (9 weeks onwards). Intestinal parasites found include Cestodes: Raillietina tetragona, 20 (13.80%), R. echinobothrida, 11 (7.64%), Amoebotaenia cuneata, 5 (3.47%), Hymenolopis contaniana, 10 (6.95%), Davainea proglottina, 1(0.69%) and Ornithostrongylus quadriatus 1(0.69%). Nematodes: Capillaria obsignata, 10(6.95%) and Ascaridia columbae, 9(6.25%). Forty-two (29.16%) of the birds had mild infection, 17 (11.81%) had moderate infection, 9 (6.25%) and 2(1.39%) had heavy and severe infection, respectively. The prevalence was higher during the wet season (36.65%) than during the dry season (27.97%). Of all the age groups, only Youngsters, 34 (23.61%) were infected with intestinal helminths. However, there were statistically significant differences between the age, sex and seasons in this study (P < 0.005). Pigeons raised on semi-intensive had the highest rate of infection (37.50%) and those raised on intensive management had the lowest rate of infection (9.03%). A number of measures are recommended for the control of these helminthic parasites.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigeons and backyard chickens in Kalar and Khanaqin districts, Iraq

Domestic pigeons and backyard chickens are reared by a large number of people in Iraq for several purposes including meat, egg, commerce, and hobby. They are infected with different types of parasites which cause high mortality rate and great economic loss. The present study was conducted in two districts in Garmian region, Kalar and Khanaqin to study the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigeons and backyard chickens. A total of 720 fresh fecal samples from (401 backyard chickens and 319 domestic pigeons) were examined using direct microscopy and standard floatation technique. The overall prevalence of parasites was 38.61 %. The rate of infection in chickens was 32.91% (132/401) and the rate of infection in pigeons was 45.76% (146/319). Five genera of nematodes were identified in chickens: Ascaridia galli (5.98%), Heterakis gallinarum (4.48%), Capillaria sp. (3.24%), Oxyspirura mansoni (1.74%) and Trichostrongylus tenuis (0.75%). Two cestodes were also identified, Choanotaenia infundibulatum (6.73%) and Raillietina sp. (0.75%) and one protozoan, Eimeria sp. (15.96%). Five genera of parasites were identified in domestic pigeons as follows: three nematodes, Ascaridia columbae (2.82%), Heterakis gallinarum (1.25%) and Capillaria sp. (0.62%), one cestode, Raillietina sp. (1.56%) and one protozoan, Eimeria sp. (42%). Sexes of the birds had no effect on the rate of infection p>0.05. Regarding locations, pigeons from Khanaqin were highly infected with parasites compared to Kalar p

Prevalence and distribution pattern of intestinal helminths in chicken and pigeons in Aswan, Upper Egypt.

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.

Morphological and Molecular Identification of Some Intestinal Helminths Infesting the Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia domestica) at Ismailia, Egypt

The study identified helminths infecting the domestic pigeon, Columba livia domestica using conven-tional methods (Light and Environmental scanning electron microscopes) as well as the newly introduced molecular biology methods. 120 pigeons were purchased from Ismailia, Egypt during the period from December, 2015 to November, 2016. Light and Environmental scanning electron microscopes were used to study the general morphology and the surface features of the recovered parasites. The identification of the recovered helminths was confirmed using molecular biology techniques. Four helminths were recorded; one nematode (Ascaridia columbae) and three cestodes (Cotugnia polyacantha, Raillietina beveridgei and Raillietina echinobothrida). The total helminths prevalence was 58.3%. Parasites DNA sequence data was used in Blast test, in order to confirm the identities of recovered cestodes. The phylogenetic tree of C. polyacantha picked only one sequence belong to Cotugnia sp. from India, in turn, this may be the first time for C. polyacantha 18S rRNA to be submitted to GenBank from Egypt. Also, PCR reaction positively identified our nematode as A. columbae. Therefore, it is recommended to use molecular technique in helminths identification as the main methodology for correct identification especially in closely related species.