Coccidian Oocysts Research Articles

Patterns of gastrointestinal parasite infections in bighorn sheep, Ovis canadensis, with respect to host sex and seasonality

Males and females in sexually dimorphic species show differences in their physiology and behaviour due to differences in energetic investment into reproduction and soma. This means that the two sexes may show different patterns of parasitism at different times of the year. In this study, we evaluate the abundance of fecal eggs and larvae of 5 parasite types (Strongyles, Nematodirus spp., Marshallagia marshalli., Protostrongylus spp. lungworms, and Eimeria spp.) in relation to season and sex in Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis). We use fecal egg counts (FEC) as a proxy for infection intensity. Parasite FECs differed between male and female bighorn sheep and varied with season. We found pronounced fluctuations in fecal egg counts of various parasite species in males and females across different seasons and reproductive stages. Strongyle counts were significantly higher during late gestation and lactation/summer, and particularly pronounced in males. Nematodirus counts were highest during late gestation in females and during the rut in males. Marshallagia counts peaked during late gestation in females and during the rut in males. Protostrongylus spp. lungworm counts were highest during late gestation in females and in males during lactation/summer and the rut. Eimeria oocyst counts varied across seasons, with higher counts in males during the rut and in females during winter and late gestation. Additionally, significant differences in Strongyle counts were observed between coursing and tending rams, with tending rams exhibiting higher counts. We discuss why the sexes might differ in FECs and suggest that differences between FECs of the parasites across seasons may be due to different life cycles and cold tolerance of the parasites themselves.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Eimeria haematopusi n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in an Australian Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (Aves: Charadriiformes)

A novel Eimeria Schneider, 1875 species is described from an Australian pied oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris Vieillot, in Western Australia. The pied oystercatcher was admitted to the Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (KWRC), Perth, Western Australia in a poor body condition, abrasion to its right hock and signs of partial delamination to its lower beak. Investigation into potential medical causes resulted in a faecal sample being collected and screened for gastrointestinal parasites. Unsporulated coccidian oocysts were initially observed in the faeces and identified as Eimeria upon sporulation. The sporulated oocysts (n = 20) are ellipsoidal, 20–21 × 12–13 μm in shape and have thick bi-layered walls which are c.2/3 of the total thickness. Micropyle is present, robust and protruding, and occasionally has a rounded polar body attached to the micropyle. Within the oocyst, a residuum, in addition, two to five polar granules are present. There are four ellipsoidal sporocysts 9–11 × 5–6 μm with flattened to half-moon shaped Stieda bodies. Sub-Stieda body and para-Stieda body are absent. The sporocysts contain sporocyst residuums composed of a few spherules scattered among the sporozoites. Within the sporozoites, anterior and posterior refractile bodies are present, but the nucleus is indiscernible. To further characterise the novel Eimeria species from H. longirostris, molecular analysis was conducted at the 18S ribosomal RNA locus, using PCR amplification and cloning. Two cloned sequences from the novel Eimeria were compared with those from other Eimeria spp. with the highest genetic similarity of 97.6% and 97.2% from Clone 1 and 2, respectively with Eimeria reichenowi (AB544308) from a hooded crane (Grus monacha Temminck) in Japan. Both sequences grouped in a clade with the Eimeria spp. isolated from wetland birds, which include Eimeria paludosa (KJ767187) from a dusky moorhen (Gallinula tenebrosa Gould) in Western Australia, Eimeria reichenowi (AB544308) and Eimeria gruis (AB544336) both from hooded cranes. Based on the morphological and molecular data, this Eimeria sp. is a new species of coccidian parasite and is named Eimeria haematopusin. sp. after its host H. longirostris.

Effect of dietary treatments on performance, oocysts shedding and lesion scores in broiler chickens experimentally challenged with Eimeria infection

Although anticoccidials effectively control coccidiosis, a needed reduction in the reliance on antimicrobials in animal production leads to the exploration of alternative compounds. The present study aimed to test five different dietary treatments to counteract the negative impact of coccidiosis on broiler chickens’ health and performance. 1-day-old male Ross 308 broilers (n = 960) were randomly assigned to one of eight treatments, with six cages per treatment (20 birds/cage). To the diet of the broiler chickens of treatments (Trt) 1–5, a synbiotic was added from d0-10. From d10–28, birds of Trt1 and Trt2 were fed synbiotics, whereas birds of Trt3 were fed diets with glutamine, and birds of Trt4 and Trt5 were fed diets with a combination of β-glucans and betaine. From d28-35 onwards, birds of Trt1 were fed a diet with a synbiotic, whereas birds of Trt2-4 received diets with glutamine, and birds of Trt5 were fed a non-supplemented diet. Birds of the positive control group (PC; Trt6) were fed a standard diet supplemented with an anticoccidial (Decoquinate). The challenged negative control (NCchall; Trt7) and non-challenged negative control (NC) Trt8 were fed a standard diet without anticoccidial or other dietary treatment. At 7 days (d) of age, all birds were inoculated with 1 023, 115, and 512 sporulated oocysts of E. acervulina, E. maxima, and E. tenella, respectively, except for Trt8. Body weight gain (BWG), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were assessed for each feeding phase (d0-10, d10-28 and d28-35) and overall experimental period (d0-35). Oocyst shedding, Eimeria lesion scores, cecal length, and relative weight were assessed at d13, d22, d28 and d35. Additionally, oocyst shedding was determined at d9 and d17. Litter quality was evaluated at d27 and d34, and footpad lesions at d34. During the starter (d0-10) and finisher (d28-35) periods, performance did not differ between the treatments. During the grower period (d10-28), Trt6 (PC) and Trt8 (NC) chickens had the highest BWG of all treatments (P < 0.001). Dietary treatment had no effect on litter quality and severity of footpad lesions. In the PC group (Trt6), low oocyst excretion and lesion scores were found. When comparing Trt1-5 with NCchall (Trt7), none of the treatments significantly reduced oocyst output or lesion scores. In conclusion, in this experiment, none of the dietary treatments performed similar or better compared to the PC group (Trt6) regarding performance or reducing Eimeria oocyst shedding or lesion scores.

Portulaca oleracea exhibited anti-coccidian activity, fortified the gut microbiota of Hu lambs

Coccidia of the genus Eimeria are important pathogens that cause coccidiosis in livestock and poultry. Due to the expansion of intensive farming, coccidiosis has become more difficult to control. In addition, the continued use of anti-coccidiosis drugs has led to drug resistance and residue. Some herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been shown to alleviate the clinical symptoms of coccidiosis, while enhancing immunity and growth performance (GP) of livestock and poultry. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have reported that the TCM herb Portulaca oleracea exhibited anti-parasitic activities. In total, 36 female Hu lambs were equally divided into six treatment groups: PL (low-dose P. oleracea), PH (high-dose P. oleracea), PW (P. oleracea water extract), PE (P. oleracea ethanol extract), DIC (diclazuril), and CON (control). The treatment period was 14 days. The McMaster counting method was used to evaluate the anti-coccidiosis effects of the different treatments. Untargeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing were used to investigate the effects of treatment on the gut microbiota (GM) and GP. The results showed that P. oleracea ameliorated coccidiosis, improved GP, increased the abundances of beneficial bacteria, and maintained the composition of the GM, but failed to completely clear coccidian oocysts. The Firmicutes to Bacteroides ratio was significantly increased in the PH group. P. oleracea increased metabolism of tryptophan as well as some vitamins and cofactors in the GM and decreased the relative content of arginine, tryptophan, niacin, and other nutrients, thereby promoting intestinal health and enhancing GP. As an alternative to the anti-coccidiosis drug DIC, P. oleracea effectively inhibited growth of coccidia, maintained the composition of the GM, promoted intestinal health, and increased nutrient digestibility.

Evaluation of the anticoccidial effect of jataí bee (Tetragonisca angustula) propolis extract against Eimeria spp. oocysts in broiler

The use of anticoccidial compounds is the primary strategy for controlling avian coccidiosis. The emergence of drug resistance, regulatory restrictions, and societal demands for meat production without the use of antimicrobials have increased the need for natural alternatives to control this disease. Propolis is known for its antimicrobial effects and may be an alternative. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the anticoccidial activity of jataí bee (Tetragonisca angustula) propolis against the sporulation of Eimeria spp. oocysts in broiler chicken feces. Propolis ethanolic extracts were tested at 10, 15, and 20% against Eimeria oocyst sporulation. Direct use of the extract on oocysts completely inhibited sporulation. When applied to feces, the extract significantly reduced the number of sporulated oocysts. Thus, the jatai bee propolis extract is a promising alternative to commercial anticoccidial agents.

Pulmonary and Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Small Ruminant Autochthonous Breeds from Centre Region of Portugal-A Cross Sectional Study.

The production of small ruminant autochthonous breeds in the Centre region of Portugal is practiced in a semi-extensive husbandry system, exposing animals to parasitic infections. The main objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of lungworm infection and identify risk factors. Fecal samples of 203 goats and 208 sheep from 30 herds were collected per rectum and subjected to the modified Baermann test. The overall prevalence of infection was 57.7%, significantly higher in goats (95.6%) than in sheep (20.7%) (p < 0.001). According to the binary logistic regression model, sheep dewormed with albendazole, mebendazole plus closantel, or ivermectin plus clorsulon presented a risk of Protostrongylidae infection 29.702, 7.426, or 8.720 times higher, respectively, than those dewormed with eprinomectin. Additionally, the presence of gastrointestinal parasites was investigated in 307 fecal samples using Mini-FLOTAC®. The overall prevalence of infection was 86.3%, also significantly higher in goats (93.2%) than in sheep (79.9%) (p < 0.001). Strongyle-type eggs were the most frequently identified, both in sheep (69.8%) and goats (87.8%), followed by Eimeria oocysts (40.3% in sheep and 68.9% in goats). Considering the high prevalence and the burden of lungworm parasitic infection, it is urgent to determine its economic impact and the repercussions in animal health in the Centre region of Portugal to establish appropriate therapeutic guidelines.

Intestinal Coccidia (Eimeriidae, Coccidia) of Synanthrophic Animals of the Urban Population

Intracellular parasitic protozoa (Protozoa) have been found in many vertebrates inhabiting various natural regions of the Earth. Numerous parasitic protozoa have been found in vertebrates in Azerbaijan, including representatives of the eimeriid coccidia (Eimeriorina: Coccidia: Apicomplexa, Protozoa). Among them, representatives of the genera Cryptosporidium(zoonoses) and Eimeria (highly specific) have the greatest practical significance in animal husbandry and medicine. Synanthropes, especially inhabitants of the urbanized ecosystem, are in contact with domestic animals and humans, which contributes to the exchange of ecto- and endoparasites between them. The article presents the results of studies of coccidia infection of synanthropic animals in Baku and its environs. And an attempt was made to find out whether wild animals are reservoirs of opportunistic pathogens. The research material was oocysts of eimeriid coccidia found in the faeces of synanthropic animals. Fecal samples of the studied animals were collected in their habitats. A total of 286 fecal samples from 6 species of animals were examined: 72 birds (12 European herring gulls and 60 rock doves), 161 rodents (54 brown rats and 107 house mice), domestic dogs and cats — 25 and 28, respectively. All studied animals were infected with cryptosporidium. Eimeria oocysts were found only in rodents and one rock dove. Based on morphometric parameters, it can be argued that the cryptosporidium oocysts found in mammals are C. parvum-like and C. muris-like, in rock doves C. parvum-like, C. galli-like. Single cryptosporidium oocysts found in gulls were not diagnosed. Eimeria oocysts found from rats match E. miyairii in morphometric characteristics, and two different types of Eimeria oocysts — Eimeria sp. 1 and Eimeria sp. 2 are supposed to be new species. Eimeria oocysts found by us in mice correspond in their size and morphology to E. krijgsmanni.

IDENTIFICATION OF PARASITES FROM POULTRY FAECES BY WET MOUNT METHOD AND CONCENTRATION TECHNIQUES

Background: Poultry faeces may contain many harmful parasites, which may pose significant health risks to the consumer. These parasites may then be transmitted to man by contaminated soil, drinking water supply or by mechanical vectors like flies and rodents. This is a neglected area of public health and deserves more scientific attention. We explored Scientific literature and also assessed our findings. Methods: One hundred (100) poultry faeces samples were assessed for viewing parasites by wet mount method. A concentration technique was performed in saturated saline solution, followed by slide preparation and microscopic identification. Results: In our experiment, coccidian oocysts, Entamoeba oocysts and rarely some Giardia oocysts, larvae of Strongyloides spp. and trematode eggs were found. Conclusion: Keeping in view the public health importance of parasites in poultry faeces, open poultry shops should be cleaned and properly sanitized to mitigate health risks to humans and also the environment.

Contamination of Keys with Parasite Eggs/Cysts within Ahmadu Bello University (Samaru Campus), Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Infections caused by intestinal parasites are widespread causing significant problems in individuals and have become a public health menace. The prevailing environmental factors alongside contamination of various objects with different stages of parasites aids the fast distribution and infection of various species of parasites. The prevalence of parasitic eggs, cysts, and oocysts on keys used for door locks and other similar locks was investigated within the Samaru Campus of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. One hundred and four (104) key sets were collected and examined, one set at a time using the formol-saline sedimentation technique. Seven parasites comprising of Coccidian oocysts 11(10.6%), Cryptosporadium spp 3(2.9%), Ascaris lumbricoides 1(1.0%), Toxocara spp 1(1.0%), Strongyloides spp 2(1.9%), Schistosoma mansoni 1(1.0%), Mites 2(1.9%) and a mixed contamination of A. lumbricoides and Toxocara spp 1(1.0%) were identified. Chi-square was used to analyze data and among the risk factors tested, keys that are few in a bunch are seen to have the highest prevalence of contamination with parasitic eggs, cysts, and oocysts, which were also statistically significant (P=0.03346). The findings of this study show that different parasites of public health occur on keys, therefore, it can be concluded that the keys can serve as channels through which parasitic eggs, cysts, and oocysts can be disseminated; and should be disinfected appropriately and often.

Analyzing the safety of the parasiticide fungus Mucor circinelloides: first insights on its virulence profile and interactions with the avian gut microbial community.

Parasiticide fungi are considered an accurate, sustainable, and safe solution for the biocontrol of animal gastrointestinal (GI) parasites. This research provides an initial characterization of the virulence of the native parasiticide fungus Mucor circinelloides (FMV-FR1) and an assessment of its impact on birds' gut microbes. The genome of this fungus was sequenced to identify the genes coding for virulence factors. Also, this fungus was checked for the phenotypic expression of proteinase, lecithinase, DNase, gelatinase, hemolysin, and biofilm production. Finally, an in vivo trial was developed based on feeding M. circinelloides spores to laying hens and peacocks three times a week. Bird feces were collected for 3 months, with total genomic DNA being extracted and subjected to long-read 16S and 25S-28S sequencing. Genes coding for an iron permease (FTR1), iron receptors (FOB1 and FOB2), ADP-ribosylation factors (ARFs) (ARF2 and ARF6), and a GTPase (CDC42) were identified in this M. circinelloides genome. Also, this fungus was positive only for lecithinase activity. The field trial revealed a fecal microbiome dominated by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria in laying hens, and Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in peacocks, whereas the fecal mycobiome of both bird species was mainly composed of Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes fungi. Bacterial and fungal alpha-diversities did not differ between sampling time points after M. circinelloides administrations (P = 0.62 and P = 0.15, respectively). Although findings from this research suggest the lack of virulence of this M. circinelloides parasiticide isolate, more complementary in vitro and in vivo research is needed to conclude about the safety of its administration to birds, aiming at controlling their GI parasites.IMPORTANCEA previous study revealed that the native Mucor circinelloides isolate (FMV-FR1) can develop parasiticide activity toward coccidia oocysts, one of the most pathogenic GI parasites in birds. However, ensuring its safety for birds is of utmost importance, namely by studying its virulence profile and potential effect on commensal gut microbes. This initial study revealed that although this M. circinelloides isolate had genes coding for four types of virulence factors-iron permease, iron receptors, ADP-ribosylation factors, and GTPase-and only expressed phenotypically the enzyme lecithinase, the administration of its spores to laying hens and peacocks did not interfere with the abundances and diversities of their gut commensal bacteria and fungi. Although overall results suggest the lack of virulence of this M. circinelloides isolate, more complementary research is needed to conclude about the safety of its administration to birds in the scope of parasite biocontrol programs.

Cryptosporidium spp. and Eimeria spp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriorina) of freshwater Cyprinid fish species in the Kura River basin in Azerbaijan territory.

This study aims to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria spp. oocysts in fish specimens in the river Kura. It was conducted during the 2021-2022 at two sites: Mingachevir reservoir in central Azerbaijan and in Neftchala district where the river finally enters the Caspian Sea through a delta of the Kura River estuary. The diagnosis of oocysts was performed microscopically. Fine smears from the intestine epithelial layers stained by Ziehl-Neelsen for Cryptosporidium oocysts. To identify Eimeria oocysts, each fish's faecal material and intestinal scrapings were examined directly under a light microscope in wet samples on glass slides with a coverslip. Results revealed a prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria species infections in fish hosts from both territories Rutilus caspicus, Alburnus filippi, Abramis brama orientalis and Carassius gibelio. Of 170 investigated fish specimens, 8.8% (15/170) were infected with Cryptosporidium species oocysts. Eimeria species oocysts were identified in 20.6% (35/170). The presence of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria infections in fish specimens are natural infections. However, their presence in fish species may be attributed to the age of the fish species and water pollution. This is the first report regarding the prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fish species in Azerbaijan.

Bacillus subtilis HW2 enhances growth performance and alleviates gut injury via attenuation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and regulation of gut microbiota in broilers under necrotic enteritis challenge

This study investigated the effects of Bacillus subtilis HW2 on the growth performance, immune response, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and intestinal health in broilers with necrotic enteritis. Three hundred 1-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers (33.88 ± 2.34 g) were randomly allocated to 5 groups including non-infected control (NC group), basal diet + necrotic enteritis challenge (NE group), basal diet + 1 × 106 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (L-Pro group), basal diet + 5 × 106 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (M-Pro group), and basal diet + 1 × 107 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (H-Pro group), with 6 replicates per group. All broilers except NC group were orally given with sporulated coccidian oocysts at day 14 and Clostridium perfringens from days 19 to 21. Results showed that L-Pro and M-Pro groups improved growth performance and intestinal morphology in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers, and L-Pro, M-Pro, and H-Pro groups improved intestinal barrier function and immune response and decreased ER stress in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that L-Pro group increased the abundances of Alistipes, Coprobacter, Barnesiella, and Limosilactobacillus, decreased Erysipelatoclostridium abundance on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. M-Pro group increased Turicibacter abundance on day 28 and the abundances of Alistipes, Barnesiella, and Limosilactobacillus on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. H-Pro group decreased Romboutsia abundance on day 28 and unidentified_Clostridia abundance on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. Analysis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) revealed higher isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid levels in L-Pro and M-Pro groups than NE group. Correlation analysis revealed the correlations between the biochemical parameters and gut microbiota as well as SCFAs, especially Romboutsia, Barnesiella, Coprobacter, isobutyric acid, and isovaleric acid. Overall, our results indicated that B. subtilis HW2 supplementation could ameliorate necrotic enteritis infection-induced gut injury. The optimal dietary supplementation dosage of Bacillus subtilis HW2 was 5 × 106 CFU/g.

Age-dependent development trends (models) of intestinal significant microbiota species and Eimeria oocysts in coccidia-challenged broiler chickens as affected by dietary encapsulated organic acids and anticoccidial drugs

ABSTRACT The study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary encapsulated organic acids (EOAs) and anticoccidials on the age-dependent development trend of intestinal Lactobacillus, E. coli, coliforms, and Eimeria in Eimeria spp.-infected broiler chickens from reused litter. In total, 525 mixed-sex 1-day-old broiler chickens were used in an uninfected/un-supplemented control plus a 2 (no EOA or 0.1% EOA) × 3 (no anticoccidial, 0.05% maduramicin, and 0.02% diclazuril) factorial arrangement of treatments as a completely randomized design with five replicates of 15 chickens. Results indicated that the cubic model is the best model for explaining the development trends of the intestinal microbial population in uninfected and infected chickens (affected by the EOAs and anticoccidials). Based on the cubic models, the microbial populations had development trends with a decreasing slope from 1-day-old until the early or middle finisher period. EOAs and anticoccidials, especially their simultaneous usage, improved (P < 0.05) the linear and cubic models’ slope (affected negatively by Eimeria infection). A polynomial model (order = 6) was determined as the best model for explaining the EOAs and anticoccidial effects on the trend of intestinal Eimeria oocysts in infected chickens. The infection peak (which happened at 25 days) was reduced by EOAs and anticoccidials, especially their simultaneous usage. In conclusion, cubic and polynomial (order = 6) regressions are the best models fitted for explaining the microbiota and Eimeria oocysts trends, respectively. EOAs and anticoccidials, especially their simultaneous usage, had beneficial effects on the microbiota and Eimeria development trends and gastrointestinal health in coccidia-infected broiler chickens.‏ RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Cubic regression is the best model for explaining intestinal microbiota development. Polynomial regression is the best model for intestinal Eimeria oocysts development. Age-development trends are affected by dietary encapsulated organic acids and anticoccidials.

Epidemiological Data Regarding the Distribution of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Albanian Small Ruminants

Background: Gastrointestinal infection of small ruminants is becoming a real problem due to the resistance against anthelmintic treatment. These parasitic infections are prevalent among grazing ruminants and result in significant economic losses by reduced production. The aim of the study was to evaluate and estimate the total loud of parasitic infection is small ruminants, sheep’s and goats from different farms located in Korça district. Methods: This study investigates parasitic infections in sheep and goats across 40 farms situated in Korça district in southeastern Albania. The primary objective is to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites within feces samples from mature sheep and goats. In total, 121 feces samples were meticulously collected. Samples were analysed and processed using the Mini-FLOTAC technique in order to identify eggs and oocysts in each herd. Result: The results of the investigation revealed the presence of Strongyloides papillosus in 45.45% of samples, Ostertagia spp. eggs in 40.9% of samples, Monezia expansa eggs in 27.2% of samples, Dictiocaulus filaria in 22.3% of samples, Nematodirus spathiger eggs in 13.2% of samples, Haemonchus contortus eggs in 13.3%, Cooperia spp. eggs in 9% of samples, Trichostrongylus axei in 9% of samples, Coccidian oocysts in 4.1% of samples and Trichuris ovis in 1.6% of samples.

Effects of essential oils and betaine on male broilers raised on used litter seeded with coccidia oocysts

Effects of essential oils and betaine on male broilers raised on used litter seeded with coccidia oocysts

Dietary Spirulina effects in Eimeria-challenged broiler chickens: growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, serum biomarkers, and gene expression.

This study investigated the growth performance, nutrient utilization, and intestinal health responses of Eimeria-challenged broiler chickens to dietary Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). On day 1, birds were assigned to 2 diets supplemented with Spirulina (0 or 5g/kg) in a randomized complete block design. The birds within each diet were divided into 2 Eimeria-challenge groups (challenge or no-challenge) and that resulted in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 2 levels each of Spirulina and challenge on day 14. On day 15, the birds in the challenge or no-challenge groups were orally gavaged with a solution containing Eimeria oocysts or 1% PBS, respectively. Samples were collected on days 21 and 26 (6- and 11-d post-infection; dpi). Data collected from days 1 to 26 were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Birds that were fed Spirulina-supplemented diets had increased (P < 0.05) BW gain, gain-to-feed ratio, and total tract retention nitrogen from days 14 to 21. The ileal villus perimeter and area, serum catalase, HMOX1 and SOD1 jejunal abundance were all increased (P < 0.05) in birds fed Spirulina-supplemented diets on day 21 (6 dpi). However, there was no effect on bone ash or oocyst count. From days 21 to 26, there was a tendency (P = 0.059) for a Spirulina × Challenge interaction on the BW gain of birds. Moreover, dietary Spirulina addition increased (P < 0.05) serum catalase, total antioxidant capacity, ileal villus perimeter, tibia bone ash, and the relative mRNA expression of HMOX1, SOD1, claudin 1, and TNFα in the jejunal mucosa of birds on day 26 (11 dpi). On both 6 and 11 dpi, the Eimeria challenge negatively (P < 0.05) impacted growth performance, gut morphology, and the relative mRNA expression of genes. Overall, assessing the impact of Spirulina in broilers revealed its positive antioxidant, immune-modulating, and health benefits. However, its dietary addition did not completely reverse the Eimeria-induced effects in these birds. Ultimately, this study outlines the positive properties of dietary Spirulina beyond its use in the diet of healthy broiler chickens.

Effects of dietary water-soluble extract of rosemary supplementation on growth performance and intestinal health of broilers infected with Eimeria tenella.

This study was conducted to explore the effect of dietary supplementation of water-soluble extract of rosemary (WER) on growth performance and intestinal health of broilers infected with Eimeria tenella (E. tenella), and evaluate the anticoccidial activity of WER. 360 1-d-old Chinese indigenous male yellow-feathered broiler chickens were randomly allocated to six groups: blank control (BC) group and infected control (IC) group received a basal diet; positive control (PC) group, received a basal diet supplemented with 200mg/kg diclazuril; WER100, WER200, and WER300 groups received a basal diet containing 100, 200, and 300mg/kg WER, respectively. On day 21, all birds in the infected groups (IC, PC, WER100, WER200, and WER300) were orally gavaged with 1mL phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) of 8 × 104 sporulated oocysts of E. tenella, and birds in the BC group were administrated an aliquot of PBS dilution. The results showed that dietary supplementation of 200mg/kg WER increased the average daily gain of broilers compared to the IC group from days 22 to 29 (P < 0.001). The anticoccidial index values of 100, 200, and 300mg/kg WER were 137.49, 157.41, and 144.22, respectively, which indicated that WER exhibited moderate anticoccidial activity. Compared to the IC group, the groups supplemented with WER (100, 200, and 300mg/kg) significantly lowered fecal oocyst output (P < 0.001) and cecal coccidia oocysts, alleviated intestinal damage and maintained the integrity of intestinal epithelium. Dietary supplementation with WER significantly improved antioxidant capacity, elevated the levels of secretory immunoglobulin A, and diminished inflammation within the cecum, particularly at a dosage of 200mg/kg. The results of this study indicated that dietary supplementation with 200mg/kg WER could improve broiler growth performance and alleviate intestinal damage caused by coccidiosis.

ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТЬ СРЕДСТВА ДЕЗИНФЕКСАН В ОТНОШЕНИИ ООЦИСТ ПРОСТЕЙШИХ НА ОБЪЕКТАХ ВЕТЕРИНАРНОГО НАДЗОРА

The article presents the results of studying the prevalence of eimeriosis of young cattle in the farms of the Moscow region, as well as testing the effectiveness of the Disinfexan agent against Eimeria oocysts (Eimeria spp.) during experimental infection and in production conditions. The conducted studies have shown that in the conditions of the Moscow region, young cattle are invaded by parasitic protozoa, among which Eimeria spp is in the first place. The intensity efficiency (IE) of Disinfexane in 1% concentration against sporulated oocysts of calves was 91,65%, in 2% concentration – 97,65%, in 3% concentration – 100%. The drug taken as a base, phenol, showed only 72,2% effectiveness against calves' eimeria

Efeito da inclusão de blend de óleos essenciais, ácidos orgânicos, taninos, vitamina E e zinco sobre a saúde intestinal de frangos de corte submetidos ao desafio por Eimeria spp., Salmonella Minnesota, Escherichia coli e Clostridium perfringens

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of (i) diets supplemented with a blend of organic acids, cinnamon essential oil, oregano essential oil, eugenol, thymol, curcumin, tannins, vitamin E, and zinc microencapsulated in vegetable fat and (ii) a challenge by Eimeria spp., Salmonella Minnesota, Escherichia coli, and Clostridium perfringens. Also, to evaluate the diet × challenge interaction effects on animal performance (1-21 and 22-42 days of age), weights of organs and primal cuts, and ileal morphometry in 42-day-old broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted according to a 2 × 2 factorial design (supplemented and unsupplemented diets × challenged and unchallenged broilers). Each treatment consisted of eight replications and eight birds per replicate. At 14 days of age, chickens in the challenge group (n=128) received orally 1mL of a suspension containing sporulated oocysts of Eimeria spp. (E. acervulina, E. praecox, E. maxima, E. mitis, E. tenella, and E. necatrix), and the other experimental group (n=128) received 1mL of saline solution orally. At 18 days of age, birds in the challenge group received 1mL of a suspension of C. perfringens, E. coli, and S. Minnesota, and unchallenged birds received 1mL of saline solution orally. From 1 to 21 days of age, microbial challenge reduced body weight, feed intake, weight gain and increased feed conversion. In the same period, supplemented birds had lower feed conversion. From 22 to 42 days of age, challenged birds had lower body weight, feed conversion, breast weight, thigh + drumstick weight, and heart weight. Supplemented birds had higher breast weight. Unchallenged birds fed the supplemented diet showed higher bursa weight, proventriculus weight, ileal villus height, and crypt depth. Unchallenged birds fed the unsupplemented diet had higher liver weight. Microbial challenges with Eimeria spp., S. Minnesota, C. perfringens, and E. coli impaired productive performance in the starter phase. They decreased the yield of primal cuts in 42-day-old broilers, partially explaining the recurring economic problems observed in the poultry sector. Overall, the studied blend was able to improve feed conversion in the starter phase, enhance digestive and absorption processes, and increase the yield of primal cuts. However, no effects were observed in challenged birds. The findings suggest that the studied effects are influenced by microbial conditions, blend composition, and inclusion level and may or may not result in beneficial outcomes.

Relato de coccidiose em um trinca-ferro Saltator similis de vida-livre no Parque Nacional do Itatiaia no sudeste brasileiro

ABSTRACT: The green-winged saltator Saltator similis (d’Orbigny &amp; Lafresnaye, 1837) is a passerine bird highly valued by bird breeders and a target of illegal wildlife trafficking. Coccidian chromists are etiological agents of coccidiosis, which may be asymptomatic and enzootic in bird populations when environmental conditions are favorable. However, epizootic outbreaks with severe disease can occur due to environmental changes. In this context, this study reports a case of coccidiosis in a free-living juvenile specimen of S. similis captured at the Itatiaia National Park in southeastern Brazil. Typical clinical signs of coccidiosis were observed, and it was associated with greenish mucoid diarrhea containing a high density of coccidian oocysts. Three Isospora spp. were specifically identified in 14 fecal samples (fecal droplets) collected over two hours. Isospora saltatori (Berto, Balthazar, Flausino &amp; Lopes, 2008) had the highest density and positivity throughout most of the collection period. Finally, this paper discusses the importance of the continuous evaluation of the health of birds as bioindicators and their coccidian ecological biomarkers as one of the strategies for evaluating the conservation status of Itatiaia National Park.