Broiler chickens are chickens that have been specifically bred for high meat production. The increase in chicken meat consumption has become both an opportunity and a challenge for farmers, one of which is coccidiosis. Coccidiosis is caused by the Eimeria protozoa, which commonly infect chickens and target their digestive tract. This study aims to calculate the proportion and identify Eimeria species that often cause coccidiosis in broiler chickens in Malang Regency and Batu City. A total of 180 fecal samples from 6 different farms were used. The examination was conducted using the McMaster method and sporulation for 2-7 days on positive samples by immersing feces in a 2% potassium dichromate solution. Identification of Eimeria species was based on morphology and morphometry and was then were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The relationship between risk factors and coccidiosis occurrence was analyzed using Chi-square. The distribution of coccidiosis infections in Malang was depicted on an epidemiological map. The results showed that there were 4 Eimeria species infecting the six subdistricts in Malang Regency and Batu City, namely E. necatrix, E. acervulina, E. praecox, and E. maxima. The proportion of coccidiosis incidence in Malang Regency and Batu City was 18.89%. The highest proportion was in Dau District (43.33%), followed by Pagelaran District (36.67%), Kromengan District (23.33%), Wagir District (6.67%), Junrejo District (3.33%), and lastly Batu District (0%). Chi-square analysis showed that altitude and temperature had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the coccidiosis incidence rate in Malang Regency and Batu City.

Morphological and molecular identification of Eimeria spp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in dairy cattle, Bos taurus from intensive dairy cattle farms in some areas of China.

First report of Eimeria spp. (Eimeriidae) in alpaca (Lama glama) in China and phylogenetic characterization of three alpacan Eimeria species.

Eimeria spp. are common coccidian parasites of a wide range of vertebrates, causing diarrhoea, poor weight gain and significant mortality in domestic animals and birds. However, there is a paucity of genomic data on these important pathogens. Of the 11 common Eimeria species in rabbits, only Eimeria stiedae invades biliary epithelial cells rather than the intestine, and the determinants of coccidian tissue tropism remain unclear. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of five common rabbit Eimeria species, including E. stiedae, Eimeria flavescens, Eimeria intestinalis, Eimeria magna and Eimeria media. Comparative genomic analysis reveals that the genome of E. stiedae appears more compact than the genomes of intestinal Eimeria species. It shows reductions in the numbers of rhoptry proteins, dense granule proteins, microneme adhesive repeats and TA4 surface antigens, suggesting that surface and invasion-associated proteins may be involved in the tissue tropism of Eimeria spp. In addition, E. stiedae-specific motifs are identified in a cluster of hypothetical surface antigens. These data provide not only new insights into the biological characteristics of coccidia but also valuable resources for functional research and drug and vaccine development.

Poultry farming is a leading branch of animal husbandry. Poultry farms with industrial technologies export their products to international markets. However, the problem of protozoan diseases of poultry, particularly chickens, remains a pressing issue on farms of various sizes (both backyard and industrial). Eimeriosis remains one of the most common protozoan diseases. The pathogens that cause eimeriosis are species-specific. The greatest diversity is found in chickens, with ten species of eimeria, followed by seven in turkeys and pheasants, five in geese, and three in ducks, guinea fowl, and pigeons. In Ukrainian poultry farms using intensive egg and broiler meat production technologies, four species of eimeria are most commonly recorded: E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. tenella, and E. necatrix. A similar situation with respect to species diversity is observed in backyard farms. Our studies revealed the presence of Eimeria spp. in farms with both intensive and extensive poultry farming practices. Seasonal infestation dynamics were observed in backyard farms, regardless of their location. Infestation prevalence and intensity were highest in summer and fall, amounting to EI = 52.34%, II = 987.85±190.05 ooc/g and EI = 63.45%, II = 1211.02±278.34 ooc/g, respectively. However, no clear seasonal pattern was observed in farms with industrial practices. Infestation prevalence and intensity were more likely correlated with the technological characteristics of poultry farming. In poultry houses housing rearing young birds, the problem of protozoan diseases is controlled by the use of acidifying preparations. Since mechanical transmission of pathogens occurs through mouse-like rodents and insects, systematic deratization and disinfestation are mandatory. In the private sector, disinfestation was recorded sporadically. Effective prevention of poultry eimeriosis involves strict adherence to basic veterinary and sanitary measures and specific anti-eimeriosis measures: separating different age groups of poultry, preferably on a mesh floor; feeding them complete feed with a balanced diet containing all minerals and vitamins; daily removal of droppings from the poultry farm area for biothermal disinfection; and disinfection of floors, walls, and structural equipment in the poultry houses.

In this study, the prevalence of Eimeriaspecies among domestic chickens in Shahbuz district of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic during 2021-2024 was analyzed according to age characteristics. For this purpose, 533 chicken feces of different age groups were collected from the mountainous and foothill areas of the region and Eimeria species were found in 372 (IE-69.7%) samples. As a result of morphological analysis, E. tenella, E. maxima, E. acervulina, E. praecox, E. mitis, E. necatrix and E. brunettispecies were detected and differences were observed in their distribution according to age groups. The infection level was found to be higher in 0-3 and 4-7 months old chickens, especially in the skirt sections. The results obtained in the study indicate that the age of the chickens plays an important role in the distribution of species of the genus Eimeria. These results are of great importance for establishing effective control and prevention strategies in the region.

Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species, is a major parasitic disease constraining poultry productivity in Nigeria. While national prevalence studies exist, localized data for specific communities like Gwallameji in Bauchi State are scarce, hindering the development of targeted control strategies. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of coccidiosis in chickens in the Gwallameji area and to compare infection rates between layer and broiler chickens. A cross-sectional study was conducted in July-August. A total of 100 fresh fecal samples (40 from layers, 60 from broilers) were randomly collected from five commercial poultry farms. Samples were analyzed using the saturated sodium chloride flotation technique to identify Eimeria oocysts. Data on prevalence were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. The overall prevalence of coccidiosis was 55.0% (55/100). A higher prevalence was observed in layer chickens (67.5%, 27/40) compared to broilers (46.7%, 28/60). However, this difference was not statistically significant (χ² = 3.41, df = 1, p = 0.065). The findings indicate a high endemicity of coccidiosis in the Gwallameji area, affecting both layer and broiler chickens substantially. The lack of a significant difference in prevalence suggests that overarching management and environmental factors, rather than chicken type alone, are key drivers of infection. This underscores the urgent need for improved biosecurity, farmer education, and holistic flock management practices to mitigate the economic impact of coccidiosis in this region.

First report on anticoccidial drug resistance in Eimeria species of broilers from Kashmir, a North-Western Himalayan region.

Coccidiosis in chickens: From temporal patterns of Lesion development and Oocyst shedding to predictive modeling.

Individual and combined effects of butyric acid glycerides and a multicomponent phytogenic supplement on growth performance, intestinal mucosal health, and immune response of broiler chickens under coccidiosis challenge

The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of diclazuril and robenidine, used for decades to prevent rabbit coccidiosis, with oregano oil as a potential phytogenic alternative. Four compound feed variants were tested: one variant without additive for the control group (CG), a second supplemented with diclazuril (1 mg/kg; DG), a third with robenidine hydrochloride (66 mg/kg; RG) and a fourth added with oregano oil (75 mg/kg; OG). A total of 48 SPF rabbits aged 5 weeks were kept in groups of three animals. Four groups (12 rabbits) were assigned to each of the 4 dietary variants. At Day 10 after arrival, each animal was experimentally infected with 1300 sporulated oocysts (Eimeria media, Eimeria magna, Eimeria perforans, Eimeria flavescens and Eimeria coecicola) originating from German rabbit stocks. Absolute excreted oocyst numbers were determined, Eimeria species identified, and reproduction rates calculated. Feed and water intake, body weight gain and feed conversion were assessed in addition to excreted faecal weights and their dry matter content. In all groups, the experimental infection resulted in markedly reduced performance parameters, changed faecal consistencies and reduced faecal weights. None of the three feed additives significantly reduced Eimeria reproduction or improved zootechnical parameters and faecal quality compared to the control animals. The present study confirms for the first time the complete and simultaneous ineffectiveness of diclazuril and robenidine due to multiple resistance in rabbit Eimeria species. Oregano as a herbal alternative for the prevention of coccidiosis in rabbits is not scientifically justified.

Background: Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria species is a major threat to poultry pro- duction. A plant commonly used in traditional African medicine, Cochlospermum planchonii, has been reported to possess diverse medicinal properties. However, little research has been conducted on its anticoccidial effects to date. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the anticoccidial effects of methanolic root extracts of Cochlospermum planchonii (MRECP) in broiler chickens experimentally infected with Eimeria maxima and Eimeria tenella. Methods: This study was performed using forty-eight broilers. Five birds were used for parasite identification and thirteen birds were used in the acute toxicity study. Thirty birds were randomly assigned into six groups (n=5) for in vivo testing. Groups I, II and III were infected with 3×104 of sporulated oocysts and treated with 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of MRECP respectively, from day 5 post infection (PI). Group IV was treated with 1.5 mg/ml amprolium, a standard anti- coccidial drug. Groups V and VI were infected-untreated and uninfected-untreated controls. A two-fold serial dilution of MRECP (1:25, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, and 1:400) was used in the in vitro study at the initial concentration of 40 mg/ml, with 1.5 mg/ml amprolium and 2.5% potassium dichromate as controls. The anticoccidial effects of MRECP were evaluated using fecal oocyst counts and body weight changes in birds experimentally infected with Eimeria species. The bioactive components of MRECP were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results: MRECP exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on Eimeria oocyst sporulation in vitro. Treated birds showed a significant reduction in fecal oocyst counts and improved weight gain compared to untreated controls. No signs of acute toxicity were observed. GC-MS analysis revealed that the major bioactive constituents were organic acids (54.54%). Conclusions: Methanolic root extracts of Cochlospermum planchonii demonstrated promising anticoccidial action against mixed Eimeria infections in broilers, with no immediate toxic effects. These findings support its potential as a natural alternative to conventional anticoccidial drugs.

Coccidiosis represents a major constraint to sheep productivity worldwide, with increasing concerns regarding anticoccidial resistance and growing interest in reducing dependency on conventional synthetic anticoccidials. This investigation evaluated the anticoccidial properties of faveira pods (Parkia platycephala pod-PpP) and their influence on productive performance in naturally infected lambs. Eighteen uncastrated Dorper × Santa Inês crossbred males (20.0 ± 2.5 kg, 5 months) were randomly allocated to three groups: G1 (0% PpP; n = 6), G2 (100% PpP replacing roughage, 30.0% of total diet; n = 6), and the control group (0% PpP plus 20 mg/kg toltrazuril; n = 5). Parasitological assessments, productive performance, and behavioral parameters were monitored over 45 days using oocyst counts, morphometric analysis, digestibility trials, and biometric measurements. Nine Eimeria species were identified, with E. crandallis, E. parva, and E. bakuensis representing 53.5% of total oocyst shedding. Group G2 demonstrated a numerical 8.5% reduction in parasite load compared to G1 (p = 0.42), while toltrazuril achieved 36.6% efficacy (p < 0.05). Species-specific effects were significant for E. crandallis, E. parva, and E. ovinoidalis (p < 0.01). A robust correlation emerged between parasite load and water consumption (r = 0.652, p = 0.0045), establishing a novel behavioral biomarker for coccidiosis monitoring. Environmental oocyst elimination decreased by 43.4% in the P. platycephala group. These findings demonstrate that PpPs possess moderate anticoccidial properties, offering a sustainable complementary strategy for integrated coccidiosis management while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Invasion mechanisms of Eimeria coccidian and host immune responses in chicken intestine_A review.

Distribution and epidemiological factors influencing Eimeria species occurrence in commercial chicken farms in Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria.

Chicken coccidiosis is a major parasitic disease in poultry that causes substantial economic losses worldwide. The accurate and simultaneous diagnosis of mixed infections with multiple Eimeria species remains challenging using conventional methods. In this study, we developed a multiplex TaqMan-MGB qPCR assay targeting the ITS1 region for simultaneous detection and quantification of four major pathogenic species: E. acervulina, E. necatrix, E. maxima, and E. tenella. The assay exhibited high specificity without cross-reactivity and achieved a sensitivity 100-fold greater than conventional PCR, with detection limits ranging from 101 to 102 copies/μL. Standard curves demonstrated strong linearity (R2 ≥ 0.95) and amplification efficiency (95-113%). Repeatability was robust, with intra- and inter-assay CVs below 2%. Applied to 165 clinical samples collected from poultry farms in Fujian Province, China (2022-2024), the assay detected an overall Eimeria infection rate of 93.3%, higher than conventional PCR (89.7%). Epidemiological analysis revealed E. tenella (78.8%, [130/165]) and E. necatrix (78.8%, [130/165]) were dominant, while mixed infections were frequent (83.3%, [136/154]), including dual (45.5%, [70/154]), triple (31.2%, [48/154]), and quadruple (11.7%, [18/154]) infections. This multiplex TaqMan-MGB qPCR provides a rapid, sensitive, and quantitative tool for detecting multiple Eimeria species, greatly improving diagnostic efficiency and supporting clinical diagnosis, surveillance, and control strategies.

This study investigated the protective role of Prosopis africana and Azadirachta indica leaf extracts on immune response and oxidative stress biomarkers of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats experimentally infected with Eimeria species. A total of 20 goats were assigned to five treatment groups: negative control, positive control (Embazin forte, 100 mg), P. africana (0.1 ml), A. indica (0.1 ml), and combined P. africana + A. indica (0.05–0.05 ml). Results revealed significant (P&lt;0.05) differences in serum immunoglobulin and oxidative stress markers across treatments. Goats treated with P. africana and combined P. africana + A. indica showed improved IgA (1.15±0.03 and 1.20±0.91 mmol/l, respectively) compared with the negative control (0.58±0.25 mmol/l). A. indica treated goats had markedly lower IgG (6.65±0.69 mmol/l) than the reference range (10–25 mmol/l). Oxidative stress indices indicated elevated catalase (CAT) activity in A. indica (256.00±26.27 ng/ml) relative to control (186.25±17.85 ng/ml) and higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (86.50±8.09 u/ml). However, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was lowest in P. africana (16.40±0.54) and A. indica (14.40±2.24) compared with the reference (20–25). The combined P. africana + A. indica treatment, maintained TAC (23.30±4.37) closer to the reference value. These findings suggest that P. africana and A. indica extracts modulate immune response and oxidative stress in WAD goats infected with Eimeria, with combined treatment exerting more balanced protective effects.

Growth performance and body composition of Eimeria-infected broiler fed berry pomaces and a Limosilactobacillus reuteri isolate

Coccidiosis, also commonly referred to as bloody diarrhea, is caused by Eimeria spp. and primarily affects the digestive tract. The most pathogenic Eimeria species in chickens are Eimeria tenella and Eimeria necatrix. The subject of this case study was a 27-day-old female broiler chicken from a commercial farm located in Tunjuk Village, Marga Subdistrict, Tabanan Regency, Bali. The chicken had been reported to suffer from bloody diarrhea for five days, accompanied by clinical signs of weakness, anorexia, pale comb, ruffled feathers, and a tendency to huddle in the corner of the pen. This case study aimed to describe the anatomical pathology, histopathology, and laboratory findings to obtain a definitive diagnosis of the disease affecting this chicken. The results of the anatomical pathology examination showed hemorrhage in the cecum. Histopathological examination of the cecum revealed the presence of schizonts, hemorrhage, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Qualitative fecal examination confirmed the presence of Eimeria spp. oocysts, while quantitative fecal examination using the McMaster technique revealed 895,600 oocysts per gram of feces, indicating a severe infection. Based on clinical observations, epidemiological data, gross pathological changes, histopathological findings, and fecal examinations using native, sedimentation, flotation, and McMaster methods, it was concluded that the chicken was affected by coccidiosis.

Abstract Eimeria species, the causative agents of avian coccidiosis, are major pathogens in poultry, resulting in substantial economic losses and welfare concerns worldwide. Understanding their complex life cycle, including different developmental stages and host interactions, is essential for advancing control strategies. Traditional cultivation systems, such as primary cell cultures and immortalised cell lines, have provided valuable insights, but they present limitations in supporting complete parasite development, host–pathogen interactions and immune response evaluation. Recent advances in intestinal organoids offer a promising alternative for Eimeria research. Initially developed in human models, intestinal organoids have been successfully adapted to avian systems, replicating the architecture, cellular diversity and physiological functions of the chicken gut epithelium. These 3D models provide now a physiologically relevant platform for studying parasite development, host–pathogen interactions, immune responses and drug screening in vitro. Complementary tools, such as intestinal explants, could further enhance the experimental repertory available for investigating Eimeria species. Additionally, insights from studies on related apicomplexan parasites support the translational value of these systems. These innovative systems could support significant advances in Eimeria cultivation, enabling more robust and ethical research while reducing the use of experimental animals.