Coccidian Oocysts Research Articles

Effect of essential oil blends and a nonionic surfactant on rumen fermentation, anti-oxidative status, and growth performance of lambs.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of essential oils (OEO; XEO) and an emulsifier on rumen fermentation, anti-oxidative status, and the growth performance of lambs. A finishing study was conducted using 35 females and 35 males Suffolk × Canadian Arcott crossbreed lambs, fed a 16:84 forage:concentrate pelleted barley-based with either Control; Bovatec (0.018% Bovatec); Emulsifier (0.25% of Emulsifier); OEO (0.11% of blend 1); XEO (0.0125% of blend 2); OEO + Emulsifier; or XEO + Emulsifier. The rumen fluid of all lambs was sampled via stomach tubing to measure ruminal pH, volatile fatty acid (VFA), and NH3 concentrations and enumerate protozoa. Ruminal pH, molar proportions of individual VFA (except for acetate), and ammonia concentration were similar among treatments. The acetate and total VFA concentrations were lower (P = 0.03) for lambs receiving OEO, while protozoa numbers were increased (P = 0.01). No changes were observed in blood glutathione peroxidize or total superoxide dismutase, but there was a tendency for a reduction in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in lambs fed diets containing OEO or XEO. No differences among diets were observed in coccidia oocyst counts (OPG) in feces, however, the prevalence of coccidia in lambs was reduced (Cramer's V = 0.081) with OEO. Lambs fed OEO had the highest (P < 0.01) dry matter intake (DMI) (1.48 kg/d), whereas those fed XEO had the lowest (1.30 kg/d). Average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion (DMI/ADG), and carcass measurements (hot carcass weight, carcass dressing percentages) were not affected by EO or EM. Results from this study suggest that EO may alter rumen fermentation and protozoa counts and increase DMI. However, these responses did not appear to be enhanced by Emulsifier as its inclusion with essential oils did not enhance fermentation or growth responses.

In Vitro Evaluation of Ozonated Water Treatment on the Viability of Eimeria Oocysts and Giardia Cysts from Water Buffaloes: A Proof-of-Concept Study

The aim of this proof-of-concept study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of ozonated water treatment on the viability of Eimeria oocysts and Giardia cysts isolated from naturally infected water buffaloes. Eimeria oocysts were divided into seven groups of six replicates that were treated with ozonated water at three ozone concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/L) and two contact times (five and ten minutes), and one group (negative control) that was exposed to non-treated water. Giardia cysts were divided into nine groups of six replicates and were treated with ozonated water at four ozone concentrations (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 1 mg/L) and two contact times (one and two minutes), while one group (negative control) was exposed to non-treated water. The results of the ozonated water treatment gave a 33% inhibition of the sporulation of Eimeria oocysts and rendered 96.3% of Giardia cysts non-viable, suggesting that ozonated water treatment could be a promising alternative sanitation technology to common conventional disinfectants for reducing intestinal protozoa infections in water buffaloes; though further in vitro and in vivo tests are needed.

Sporulation rate and viability of Eimeria tenella oocysts stored in potassium sorbate solution.

In order to find a new preservation solution for avian coccidial oocysts that can replace potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) solution, Eimeria tenella oocysts were preserved in 0.1 to 10% potassium sorbate (C6H7KO2) solution in this study. The results showed that there was no significant difference between the sporulation rate of E. tenella oocysts preserved in 0.1 to 10% C6H7KO2 solution and in 2.5% K2Cr2O7 solution (p > 0.05). The 0.5 to 10% C6H7KO2 solution could also effectively inhibit the growth of bacterial microorganisms. E. tenella oocysts preserved in 1% C6H7KO2 solution at 4°C for 3, 6, 9, and 12months, with the oocyst production of E. tenella oocysts being 1.3-, 1.2-, 1.6-, and 1.3-fold higher than that of oocysts stored in 2.5% K2Cr2O7 solution (p < 0.05). In conclusion, C6H7KO2 could replace K2Cr2O7 as the preservation solution of avian coccidial oocysts.

Prevalence and level of infection by endoparasites in different categories of sheep in the Western Amazon

This study aimed to understand the epidemiology of the main gastrointestinal endoparasites affecting sheep raised in the municipality of Sena Madureira, Acre, Brazil. A total of 178 fecal samples were collected from sheep raised in an extensive system of 10 farms. The samples were grouped into lambs, ewe lambs, lambing ewes, ewes, and rams for laboratory analysis by the flotation technique for counting eggs per gram of feces (EGF), oocysts of Eimeria sp., and presence of eggs of Moniezia sp. The analyzed variables consisted of the prevalence of nematodes, cestodes, and coccidia and intensity of strongylid and coccidium infection by quantification (mean ± SE) of eggs and oocysts. Prevalence data were compared by the chi-square test and intensity of infection (mean ± SE) by the Scott-Knott test (SAEG 9.1), both with P &lt; 0.05. The overall prevalence was 77.6%, reaching 64.15% for strongylids, 36.2% for coccidia, and 8.81% for cestodes (Moniezia sp.). Ewes had the lowest prevalence (52.5%), while lambs had a prevalence of 95.5%, not differing from the others (P &lt; 0.05). The intensity of infection by nematodes showed that lambs had the highest EGF compared to ewes, with values of 1297±270 and 232±79, respectively. The categories lambing ewes, ewes, and rams presented an average EGF below what is indicated for treatment with drugs. The highest intensity of infection was observed for ewe lambs (5859±3648), exceeding acceptable rates. Sheep raised in Sena Madureira has a high prevalence for verminosis by strongylids and a low prevalence for coccidiosis and cestodiasis. Young animal categories present a high health risk for endoparasitoses, and management measures that collaborate with the prophylaxis and control of these diseases should be adopted.

EFFICIENCY OF THE COMPLEX DRUG CYSTODEZ-ULTRA AGAINST EIMERIA SPP. OOCYSTS IN BROILER CHICKENS

The practice of successful poultry farms shows that the prevention of poultry parasitoses includes a complex of therapeutic and prophylactic measures aimed both against exogenous oocysts in the environment and against endogenous stages of the pathogen inside the bird's body with the use of modern antiparasitic drugs. In view of the foregoing and special resistance of Eimeria oocysts in the environment, it is possible to create an effective disinfectant against them using several active ingredients and excipients. Among these drugs, we should note glutaraldehyde, crystalline iodine and potassium iodide when used together at optimal concentrations. The experiments were carried out from August to October 2019 in the laboratory and vivarium of the Institute on 60 14-day-old Cobb-500 broiler chickens. Working solutions of Cystodez-ultra in different concentrations were prepared in advance, as well as a buffer solution WSH for preserving bird feces. Cystodez-ultra is a complex drug in a liquid form for disinfection of veterinary supervision objects and prevention of invasive diseases of birds. In the test, the chickens of the first, second and third groups were administered 1 ml of a suspension of Eimeria spp. oocysts treated with 3, 4 and 5% solutions of Cystodez-ultra orally using a micropipette; the fourth group was also administered 1 ml of a suspension of Eimeria oocysts treated with Phenol solution 4%. Broilers of the fifth group were administered a suspension with sporulated Eimeria spp. oocysts at a dose of 2000 per 1 ml not treated with a disinfectant - the infected control, and the sixth group 1 ml of WSH buffer solution - non-infected control. During the experiment, the chickens were followed up daily paying attention to their general condition, behavior, appetite, and visible physiological changes. According to the study results, the intense-effectiveness of Cystodez-ultra in 3, 4 and 5% concentration against sporulated Eimeria oocysts was 93.08, 100 and 100%, respectively, and Phenol in 4% concentration 76.92%. The number of oocysts in 1g of feces in the infected control was 4680 specimens, and the chickens of the uninfected control remained free from the invasion at all times of the study.

Effect of ‘Serala’ Sericea Lespedeza (Lespedeza Cuneata) Hay on Gastrointestinal Parasite Fecal Egg and Oocysts Counts and Packed Cell Volume in Goats

Abstract Fifty-two naturally parasite-infected intact male Spanish goats 6–7 mo of age were used in a 6-wk trial to investigate effects of ‘Serala’ (SER) sericea lespedeza (SL; Lespedeza cuneata) on indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism. Goats were individually housed in 1.5 x 1.5 m pens. Treatments were pure SER (n = 18) or ‘AU-Grazer’ (AUG; n = 16) varieties of SL or bermudagrass hay (n = 18; CON) at 75% of the ration. A corn-soybean meal-based supplement (25% of the ration) ensured isonitrogenous (17% crude protein), isocaloric diets. Diets were fed to 10% orts. Treatments were assigned for similar initial group mean fecal egg count (FEC). At the start of the study (D 0) and weekly thereafter, FEC and coccidia oocyst counts (FOC) were conducted via a modified McMaster’s technique [eggs per gram (epg); oocysts per gram (opg)], and percentage packed red blood cell volume (PCV) was measured via microhematocrit centrifugation. Data were analyzed using a mixed model for repeated measures. There was a treatment by time interaction (P &amp;lt; 0.001) for FEC. In week 1, SER and AUG were lower (P &amp;lt; 0.02) than CON and were higher than control at week 6 (AUG tendency only, P &amp;lt; 0.10; SER, P &amp;lt; 0.02). The FOC were impacted by treatment (P &amp;lt; 0.008), averaging 1977 ± 945 opg for AUG (lowest, P &amp;lt; 0.01), 3558 ± 876 opg for SER and 4164 ± 955 opg for CON (SER and CON similar). Percentage PCV tended (P &amp;lt; 0.09) to be influenced by a treatment by time interaction in which AUG and SER were similar over time, while PCV for CON animals was lower (P &amp;lt; 0.03) than D 0 at all sampling points after the first week. Overall, there was no effect of SER on FEC or FOC and no effect of AUG on FEC, though PCV was maintained throughout the study for both SL treatments.

Paleoparasitological study of Holocene South American camelids (ca. 8970–470 years 14C BP) from an archaeological site, Southern Puna of Argentina (Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca)

South American camelids (SAC) have occupied a central role in the development of Andean societies. They are widely distributed in South America and since ancient times are an important factor in Andean economies and social and ritual life. The archaeological site Punta de Peña 4 (PP4) is located in Antofagasta de la Sierra Basin (Southern Puna of Argentina). PP4 is a rock overhang and presents a large occupational sequence (early Holocene until historic times). The aim of this contribution is to study parasite diversity and the relationship among parasites and SAC through holocenic times in the Southern Puna of Argentina. Besides, differences in parasite egg preservation in the site were discussed. A total of 65 coprolites assigned to SAC were rehydratated, homogenized, filtered, allowed to spontaneous sedimentation and examined for parasite remains. Given the morphology of the coprolites, the biogeographic origin and the presence of coccidian oocysts of Eimeria macusaniensis in some of them, a camelid origin of the coprolites is suggested. This is the first paleoparasitological study from PP4, an archaeological site of Antofagasta de la Sierra, a key region in northwestern Argentina and Central Andes. Eleven taxa of parasites were found belonging to Apicomplexa, Platyhelminthes, and Nematoda. Specific parasite species of SAC were found, such as E. macusaniensis and Lamanema chavezi/Nematodirus lamae. A remarkable finding was the presence of Moniezia sp. and Strongyloides sp. in coprolites from different levels of PP4, pointing out the presence of these genera in native artiodactyls of the region previous to the arrival of Hispanic societies. Results displayed a change in the number of parasite taxa present in SAC through time. The parasite-SAC relation through time and differences in parasite egg preservation between levels and sectors (covered and uncovered) of the site are discussed.

Prevalence of coccidia in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica Gmelin, 1789) in Benghazi city, Libya

Pigeon coccidiosis is caused by Eimeria spp; a protozoan parasite which limits birds’ productivity by causing severe illness. The current study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of coccidiosis on domestic pigeon in Libya. Intestinal contents of 100 pigeons (Columba livia domestica Gmelin, 1789) were collected within a period of five months; January to May 2020. The intestinal content was examined to detect of coccidian oocysts infection on the randomly selected birds. A total of 100 faecal samples were investigated with two methods;Willis-Schaafs (qualitative) and McMaster’s (quantitative). The results obtained showed that the number of infected Pigeons was 72 pigeons (72%) of the total number of Pigeons. The prevalence was higher in female than that of males, where the total of infected females was 50 (69.4 %) and infected males was 22 (30.6%). The results showed that the highest incidence of Eimeria labbeana was observed in the young pigeons than that of adults, where the total number of young pigeons was 66 (91.7 %), and adult pigeon was 6 (8.3 %).

Comparative efficacy of Amprolium, Garlic oil and Ginger oil against Coccidiosis in common quail (Coturnix coturnix).

In birds, Eimeria spp are commonly reported coccidian parasites that cause anorexia, debilitation, bloody diarrhea, mortalities and economical losses. This study was conducted on 30 clinical cases of common quails presented at Pet Centre, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, suffering from coccidiosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the comparative anti-coccidial efficacy of amprolium, garlic oil and ginger oil. Drinking water of affected birds was supplemented with amprolium (130 mg/100 mL), garlic oil (150µl/0.5L) and ginger oil (150µl/0.5L) for 15 days and fecal sample screening for coccidia oocyst count was performed on days 0, 3, 5, 7, 11 and 15 using direct microscopy with fecal floatation method and McMaster chamber counting technique. The data was statistically analyzed which revealed that amprolium showed highest and rapid efficacy against coccidiosis with complete disappearance of oocysts and improved activity level with better health, increased feed intake and normal feces on day 11 followed by garlic oil that showed recovery from oocysts on day 15, whereas in ginger oil treated birds oocysts were present till the end of study. It was concluded that amprolium is highly effective against coccidiosis followed by garlic oil; on other hand ginger oil was not clinically effective for the treatment of coccidiosis in quails.

Essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis induces in vitro anthelmintic and anticoccidial effects against Haemonchus contortus and Eimeria spp. in small ruminants

This work aimed to evaluate the valorisation of the volatile oil of “Rosmarinus officinalis L.”, a spontaneously growing medicinal plant in Tunisia, by studying its chemical composition, anthelmintic and anticoccidial potentials against Eimeria spp. and Haemonchus contortus at different essential oil concentrations. The main compounds of the R. officinalis essential oil identified by GC/MS were three monoterpenes: 1,8-cineole (52.06%), α-pinene (15.35%) and camphor (7.69%). The anticoccidial activity was estimated by the inhibition percentage of the oocyte sporulation in addition to the unsporulated and degenerated Eimeria oocysts using a haemocytometer after exposure to different essential oil concentrations. The essential oil was active against Eimeria spp. oocysts of sheep at IC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; = 1.82 ug/ml. Therefore, the IC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; values of the anticoccidial activity of this oil examined was 1.82 mg/ml. The anthelmintic efficacy of the rosemary volatile oil against Haemonchus contortus was realised by two in vitro tests: the egg hatch assay (EHA) and the adult worm’s motility assay (AWMA), by comparing this efficacy with albendazole (anthelmintic, of reference). In the egg hatch assay, the percentage of inhibition was observed at 16 mg/ml and was 73.76% after 2 days of incubation (IC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; = 11.41 mg/ml) and for the adult worm’s motility assay, it was 100% inhibition.

Assessment of risk factors associated with prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in poultry of central plain zone of Punjab, India.

Background and Aim:Parasitic diseases are an important hurdle to the economy for the developing poultry industry due to their deleterious effects resulting into malnutrition, diminished feed conversion ratio, weight loss, decreased egg production, and mortality in young birds. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites in poultry farms of central plain zone of Punjab.Materials and Methods:A total of 490 pooled droppings and 351 intact intestines of poultry from slaughterhouses from seven districts of central plain zone of Punjab state, India, were collected and analyzed from September 2016 to May 2018 by qualitative and quantitative techniques.Results:An overall prevalence of GIT parasites was 38.36% with significantly (p<0.01) highest (74.1%) in Ludhiana and lowest (12.0%) in Shri Fatehgarh Sahib. The most predominant (86.2%) infection was coccidia. The birds reared under a deep litter system were having a higher (p<0.01) fecal load of helminthic eggs and coccidian oocysts (54.4%) compared to the cage system (37.5%). Infection rate was apparently more (40%) in broilers than layers (35.7%). Prevalence of GIT parasites was higher (p<0.01) in monsoon season (58.5%) and lower in summer season (24.48%). The broilers in the age group of 0-2 weeks possessed a significant higher (p<0.05) level of GIT parasitic infection (57.5%), while in case of layers, a higher infection rate (46.66%) was observed in birds between 9 and 18 weeks of age as compared in other groups. Higher (p<0.05) infection rate of GIT parasites was seen in crossbred (45.55%) birds as compared to desi birds (20.00%).Conclusion:The study showed that coccidiosis was the predominant infection among all GIT parasites based on fecal and intestinal tract content analysis. The risk factors associated with the prevalence of GIT parasitic infections were geographical location, deep litter system, broilers, age, crossbred breeds, and monsoon season.

Oocyst shedding patterns of Eimeria species and their association with management and performance at ten rose veal starter farms in the Netherlands.

Coccidiosis at rose veal starter farms is often diagnosed however, this was the first study performed considering this topic on this type of rearing unit. The objective of this study was to identify Eimeria species faecal shedding patterns at ten Dutch rose veal starter farms during rearing. Further objectives were to investigate associations with (gut) health, production and management decisions. Faecal samples from twelve randomly selected calves per farm were collected weekly during 9 consecutive weeks. Thereafter samples were pooled in a predetermined composition of six. These calves were clinically evaluated every sample visit and weighed at the first and last visit. Laboratory tests included a flotation test of the samples. If this yielded Eimeria oocysts, both oocysts per gram feces (OPG) and species differentiation were established using a modified McMaster method. Management parameters and technical herd results were identified after finalizing the study period using a questionnaire. Studied patterns in oocyst shedding included the pool's cumulated OPG, maximum OPG level and the number of sample days (SD) that OPG exceeded a confirmed level. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate analysis. Associated (p<0.10) OPG patterns considering rumen fill, faecal consistency and average daily weight gain (ADG) were tested using a model with herd included as random effect. RESULTS: on all ten farms E. alabamensis, E.bovis and E. zuernii besides non-pathogenic species were identified, often as mixed infections. Peak OPG occurred predominately at SD 21 and 28 (E. alabamensis and E. bovis), and at SD 42 (E. zuernii). In 16 pools, OPG levels ≥500 for E. bovis or E. zuernii, were found. Significant correlation (p<0.0001) showed between the log10 OPG of pathogenic Eimeria and of all Eimeria species. Multivariate analysis showed significant correlation between cumulative faecal consistency scores and cumulative log10 OPG of pathogenic Eimeria species (β=0.16; p=0.008). Pools exceeding 750 OPG for E. bovis showed 93g lower ADG and pools experiencing ≥2 SD with >1000 OPG for E. alabamensis 141g lower ADG. From the questionnaire we identified lower cumulated OPG of all Eimeria species except for E. bovis at farms where the units were cleaned before arrival of the calves. CONCLUSION: As a rule, on Dutch rose veal starter farms, mixed Eimeria infections occur, but shedding patterns differ between farms. Clinical and growth performance is related to OPG patterns found. Cleaning units before arrival of calves lowers oocyst shedding during the rearing period.

Prevalence of Select Intestinal Parasites in Alabama Backyard Poultry Flocks

Simple SummaryAs biosecurity is generally low in backyard chicken flocks, infections with various pathogens are common. This puts other poultry nearby, including commercial flocks, at risk. Some chicken pathogens can also infect humans and cause disease. In this study, backyard poultry flocks were tested for parasites. Eighty-four fecal samples, 82 from chickens and two from turkeys, from 64 backyard flocks throughout the state of Alabama were collected in the summers of 2017 and 2018. The most frequently observed parasites were coccidia, unicellular parasites capable of causing diarrhea. Eggs of various roundworms were observed in 20.3–26.6% of the flocks. These parasites were usually present in low numbers only. Other detected parasites were the flagellates Histomonas meleagridis and Tetratrichomonas gallinarum in 4.7% and 18.8% of flocks. Both can cause severe disease in poultry. Detected parasites that can cause disease in humans were Cryptosporidium spp. in 18.8% of the flocks and Blastocystis spp. in 87.5% of the flocks. The results will help to provide information that can be used to design outreach programs to improve the health and wellbeing of birds in backyard flocks.Keeping chickens as backyard pets has become increasingly popular in the United States in recent years. However, biosecurity is generally low in backyard flocks. As a consequence, they can serve as reservoirs for various pathogens that pose a risk for commercial poultry or human health. Eighty-four fecal samples, 82 from chickens and two from turkeys, from 64 backyard flocks throughout the state of Alabama were collected in the summers of 2017 and 2018. Coccidia oocysts were seen in 64.1% of flocks with oocyst counts in most samples below 10,000 oocysts per gram. Eggs of Ascaridia spp. or Heterakis gallinarum were observed in 20.3% of the flocks, and eggs of Capillaria spp. in 26.6% of the flocks. Egg counts were low, rarely exceeding 1000 eggs per gram. DNA extracted directly from fecal samples was investigated by PCR for other relevant parasites. The results showed that 4.7% of flocks were positive for Histomonas meleagridis, 18.8% of flocks for Tetratrichomonas gallinarum, 18.8% of flocks for Cryptosporidium spp. and 87.5% of flocks for Blastocystis spp. The results will help to provide information that can be used to design outreach programs to improve health and wellbeing of birds in backyard flocks.

Occurrence of faecal endoparasites in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) in two grazing areas in northern Norway

BackgroundSemi-domesticated reindeer represent an important livestock industry and livelihood for a proportion of the human population in northern Fennoscandia. Reindeer husbandry is considered an extensive animal husbandry, where the animals are kept mostly on natural pastures, although sometimes kept in fenced areas for shorter periods. These reindeer may harbour a variety of parasites that may affect animal health and production. The relatively limited close contact between herds and owners gives limited opportunities for diagnosis and treatment of diseases in general. Furthermore, the effects of subclinical parasitism in livestock are commonly expressed as a reduction in productivity rather than clinical disease and mortality. Thus, specific knowledge of endoparasites and parasitic infections in these herds is scarce. This study investigated the occurrence of various endoparasites in reindeer by analysis of a total of 114 faecal samples from winter-slaughtered reindeer from two different grazing areas in Troms and Finnmark, Norway.ResultsUsing a McMaster method, a Baermann technique, and a direct immunofluorescent antibody test, the following parasites were identified in the faecal samples with the occurrence data given as percentages: Strongylid eggs (62%), Nematodirinae spp. eggs (24%), Capillaria sp. eggs (42%) and Moniezia spp. eggs (17%), Dictyocaulus spp. larvae (14%) protostrongylid larvae (40%), Eimera spp. oocysts (23%), and Giardia duodenalis cysts (5%). Cryptosporidium oocysts were not detected. Parasite eggs, oocysts, and cysts were quantified.Molecular analysis revealed G. duodenalis sub-assemblage AI, a potentially zoonotic genotype not previously reported in reindeer from this region. Morphological analyses of Eimeria oocysts identified two species, Eimeria mayeri and Eimeria rangiferis, and molecular analyses of the cytochrome C oxidase I (coi) gene and 18 s rRNA (18SSU) gene of Eimeria confirmed the presence of Eimeria species that are specific to reindeer.ConclusionsA high prevalence, but low burden, of endoparasites was detected in samples from these semi-domesticated reindeer. The samples were collected during winter, when adult gastrointestinal parasites usually produce only low numbers of transmission stages. Therefore, together with the low number of samples, detailed and definitive conclusions regarding parasite status of semi-domesticated reindeer are avoided. Nevertheless, these data provide a snapshot overview of parasite occurrence in a semi-domesticated animal group vulnerable to the various environmental changes to which they are exposed.

Microscopic and molecular detection of Eimeria maxima and Eimeria praecox naturally infected in free-range village chickens of Myanmar.

In Myanmar, village chicken production is an important source of both income and food for rural households. The present study is aimed to conduct microscopic detection and molecular identification of Eimeria species in free-range village chickens in Myanmar. Faecal samples were taken from a total of 122 apparently healthy village chickens from three rural regions in Myanmar. The faecal samples were subjected to flotation method using a saturated sugar solution. Oocysts of Eimeria sp. were isolated by saturated sugar solution onto coverslips and identified to species at 400 × by light microscopy. Molecular identification was conducted for Eimeria oocysts collected from faecal samples using 18S rRNA and internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS-1). Eimeria oocysts were found in 41 samples (33.6%) by flotation method. Oocysts morphologically identified as E. maxima and E. praecox, were detected in 33 (27.0%) and 15 (12.3%) samples, respectively. Mixed infection of these two species was found in 7 (5.7%). Partial sequences of the 18S rRNA gene amplified from morphologically identified oocysts of E. maxima and E. praecox, revealed 99.9% and 100%, identities with the sequences of each species deposited in GenBank, respectively. Species-specific PCR of the ITS-1 region was also confirmed the presence of these two Eimeria species. The results demonstrated the presence of E. maxima and E. praecox in free-range village chickens in Myanmar.

Health assessment of wild speckled dwarf tortoises, CHERSOBIUS SIGNATUS

BackgroundIn free-ranging reptile populations, bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic pathogens may affect hosts through impairment in movements, thermoregulation, reproduction, survival, and population dynamics. The speckled dwarf tortoise (Chersobius [Homopus] signatus) is a threatened species that is mostly restricted to the Succulent Karoo biome in South Africa, and little information on pathogens of this species is available yet. We derived baseline parameters for five males and five females that were captured to genetically enhance a conservation breeding program in Europe. Upon collection of the tortoises, ticks were removed and identified. Immediately upon arrival in Europe, ocular, nasal, oral and cloacal swabs were taken for viral, bacteriological and mycological examinations. Fecal samples were collected before and 1 month after fenbendazole treatment, and analyzed for parasites. A panel of PCR, aiming to detect herpesviruses, adenoviruses and iridoviruses, was carried out.ResultsSamples were negative for viruses, while bacteriological examination yielded detectable growth in 82.5% of the swabs with a mean load of 16 × 107 ± 61 × 108 colony forming units (CFU) per swab, representing 34 bacterial species. Cloacal and oral swabs yielded higher detectable growth loads than nasal and ocular swabs, but no differences between sexes were observed. Fungi and yeasts (mean load 5 × 103 ± 13 × 103 CFU/swab) were detected in 25% of the swabs. All pre-treatment fecal samples were positive for oxyurid eggs, ranging from 200 to 2400 eggs per gram of feces, whereas after the treatment a significantly reduced egg count (90–100% reduction) was found in seven out of 10 individuals. One remaining individual showed 29% reduction, and two others had increased egg counts. In five tortoises, Nycthocterus spp. and coccidian oocysts were also identified. Soft ticks were identified as Ornithodoros savignyi.ConclusionsOur baseline data from clinically healthy individuals will help future studies to interpret prevalences of microorganisms in speckled dwarf tortoise populations. The study population did not appear immediately threatened by current parasite presence.

Effect of Herbanoplex CP on broiler chicken's performance following a nondefined challenge or intestinal lesion score using a necrotic enteritis challenge model

Two independent trials were conducted to assess the effect of Herbanoplex CP (HB) on broiler chicken's performance using a 1) a nondefined challenge or 2) necrotic enteritis (NE) challenge model with intestinal lesion scoring. Herbanoplex CP is a unique combination of phytocompounds (ground hops, wheat germ, and chicory). In Exp 1, 400-day-old male chicks (Cobb 500) were individually tagged, weighed, and randomly assigned to one of 20 pens (n = 20 birds/pen). Pens were randomly assigned per treatment group: 4 treatments with 5 replicates each (n = 100 birds/treatment). T1: no modification; T2: antibiotic growth promoter bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) 11% at 0.5 kg/metric ton); T3: HB 1 kg/metric ton; and T4: HB at 0.5 kg/metric ton. On day 7, 14, 15 of life, all birds in all treatment groups were challenged by drinking water with a liter filtrate as a nondefined challenge model. Their performance was evaluated at day 35. T3 had a significant (P-value < 0.05) increase in body weight gain (BWG) and a significant reduction in FCR compared with the rest of the experimental groups. Interestingly, chickens in T2, showed similar BWG and FCR when compared with chickens in T4. In Exp 2, 100-day-old male broiler chicks were divided into 5 groups and allocated in isolation cages. T1: birds without Clostridium perfringens (CP) challenge; T2: birds with CP challenge; T3: birds with CP challenge plus HB at 1 kg/metric ton; T4: birds with CP challenge plus HB at 0.75 kg/metric ton and T5: birds with CP challenge plus HB at 0.5 kg/metric ton. At day 13, all chickens were vaccinated with 10x coccidia oocysts. At day 14, all chickens were treated with a 10x dose of infectious bursal disease vaccine. From day 15 to day 19, chickens in challenge groups (T2, T3, T4, and T5) were orally gavaged with 108 cfu of C. perfringens twice a day. At day 21, all chickens were euthanized, and NE intestinal lesion scores were recorded. Chickens in T3 and T4 exposed to a NE challenge model showed significantly reduced lesion scores compared with the rest of the groups. Furthermore, in vitro minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays revealed that HB had the lowest MIC at both 24 h (390 μg/mL) and 48 h (625 μg/mL) against C. perfringens. Herbanoplex CP showed similar response to BMD in a nonspecific challenge model in promoting growth performance (Exp 1). Moreover, HB reduced the severity of intestinal lesion score using a NE challenge model (Exp 2), suggesting that the antibacterial properties against C. perfringens by HB can promote growth during microbial challenges.

Investigation of causes of neonatal mortality in Bali cattle on Sumbawa Island

There is a desire to increase cattle production on Sumbawa Island but anecdotal reports from farmers indicate that calf mortality can be high. The aim of this paper is to report the occurrence and common causes of calf mortality, as well as to determine if colostral antibody transfer is sufficient in new-born calves. Personal interviews were conducted with 27 farmers. Immunoglobulins were measured in neonatal calves (n=18) using the FASTest IgG Bovine kit. The presence of various pathogens was investigated in fecal samples from calves (n=12) with signs of diarrhea between 1-2 months of age using the FASTest D4T bovine kit and the presence of gastrointestinal parasites was investigated using fecal floatation from pre-weaned calves (3 weeks-3 months of age; n=62). From the questionnaire calf losses ranged from 10–27%, with most losses occurring in older calves. Only one of the 18 calves demonstrated an insufficient concentration of IgG in serum, indicating the possibility of failure of passive transfer from the dam. Of the samples tested from scouring calves, 7 out of 12 samples tested positive for one of the microorganisms causing general diarrhoea in calves. A range of different gastrointestinal nematode parasites were found although very few coccidial oocysts were seen. The results of these studies indicate that calf mortality is high and will be a limitation on the production of beef cattle for slaughter in the Dompu region of Sumbawa Island. Further investigation is required to determine which pathogens are the cause of this calf loss.

Comparison of different DNA extraction procedures for Eimeria oocysts

A study was carried out to compare the efficacy of different DNA extraction procedures for Eimerian oocysts. A total of 753 litter and fecal samples and intestines were collected from desi poultry farms and slaughter houses in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Out of five different methods of DNA extraction procedures the glass bead method was found to be the best method. Since the above method involves breaking of the oocysts and sporocysts walls and dissolving the sporozoites membrane. This greatly simplifies the currently used DNA extraction procedures for Eimeria species. The liquid nitrogen method was also found to be good but was more critical and time consuming. Other methods such as sodium hypochlorite, direct and sonication has failed to yield DNA from Eimeria oocysts. The present study indicates that glass beads method yielded better quality of DNA for molecular analysis and it is suitable for both large and small number (˂1x103) of oocysts in a sample. Hence, can be used as a routine procedure for DNA extraction for Eimerian oocysts.

A Survey of Coccidia and Nematodes in Pastured Poultry in the State of Georgia.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify the parasitological challenge in pastured poultry production in the state of Georgia. Over the course of 1 yr, fecal samples from six turkey flocks, 10 broiler flocks, and 13 layer flocks were collected on a pastured farm in 2-wk intervals to determine counts of Eimeria oocysts and nematode eggs. Average coccidia counts were 10,198 oocysts per gram of feces (OPG) in broiler flocks, 1470 OPG in layer flocks, and 695 OPG in turkey flocks. The means in broiler and turkey flocks were higher at their first week on pasture. Counts in broilers and layers were significantly higher in spring than in winter and summer. Coccidia counts in broilers were lower than published numbers in conventionally reared poultry, indicating the rotation system of the pastures might effectively reduce the infection pressure. Next-generation sequencing of PCR products showed the presence of most described Eimeria spp. in broilers, layers, and turkeys. In addition, operational taxonomic units (OTUs) x, y, and z were found. The frequency of species was similar for broilers and layers, with the exception that Eimeria praecox and OTU z were more common in layers. In layer flocks, the average count of roundworm eggs per gram of feces (EPG) was 509 EPG with 80% of the samples being positive. The mean counts had no clear pattern related to age. There was an increase of EPG with the increase of temperatures during spring and summer with the peak at midfall. Worm eggs from laying hens were identified as Ascaridia galli. The seasonal differences suggest that higher temperatures might result in an increase of egg survival and sporulation in the environment.