Veterinary Helminthology

Aim: The objective of this research was to identify the parasite species found in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas of Aceh cattle slaughtered in a Banda Aceh slaughterhouse using lactophenol and semichon carmine staining.

Materials and Methods: Each sample out of 50 samples of gastrointestinal tract and pancreas from Aceh cattle slaughtered in a Banda Aceh slaughterhouse was separated by organ. Each organ was examined for the presence of worm. Then, the parasitic worms found were subsequently collected and separated based on class and species, followed by staining using lactophenol and semichon carmine. The worms were then identified and their prevalence was determined.

Results: The results showed that three species of parasites were successfully identified, all belonging to the nematode class, namely, Oesophagostomum radiatum, Oesophagostomum columbianum, and Setaria labiatopapillosa with the prevalence of 12%, 10%, and 6%, respectively. In addition, there was one species of parasite from the trematode class, namely, Eurytrema pancreaticum with prevalence of 0.4%.

Conclusion: The nematode class worms, such as O. radiatum, O. columbianum, and S. labiatopapillosa, can be stained by lactophenol, while the trematode class worm such as E. pancreaticum can be stained by semichon's carmine.

Keywords: Aceh cattle, gastrointestinal parasites, Oesophagostomum, Setaria.

Background and Aim: This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and intensity and to identify the associated risk factors and impact of trematode infection in swamp buffaloes reared under different agro-climatic conditions in Java, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: A total of 580 fecal samples were collected from swamp buffaloes in five different agro-climatic areas in Banten and Central Java Provinces, Indonesia. The fecal samples were examined using the Danish Bilharziasis Laboratory Technique to determine the prevalence and intensity of trematode infection. The risk factors for infection were determined from an in-depth interview of owners/keepers, and the results were analyzed using Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression. The infection was also correlated with swamp buffalo production parameters (body weight and body condition score [BCS]). Results: From all fecal samples, the overall prevalence of trematode infection was 64.83%, which comprised Fasciola spp. ...

En Chile los estudios parasitológicos en Anseriformes son escasos, con sólo 2 trabajos realizados para el Cygnus melancoryphus Molina, 1792. El objetivo del presente trabajo es contribuir a dicho conocimiento con nuevos registros para este cisne. Se realizó la necropsia parasitaria de los sistemas digestivos de 46 C. melancoryphus recolectados en el Santuario de la Naturaleza Carlos Anwandter. Todas las aves examinadas resultaron positivas con al menos 1 especie de helminto. Las especies identificadas fueron Capillaria sp., Epomidiostomum vogelsangi Travassos, 1937, Hymenolepididae gen. sp., Catatropis verrucosa (Frölich, 1789) Odhner, 1905 y Echinostoma revolutum Frölich, 1802 sensu lato. Catatropis verrucosa y E. revolutum s. l. constituyen nuevos registros tanto para C. melancoryphus como para Chile. Los nemátodos registraron una mayor prevalencia respecto a los demás helmintos, probablemente por tener ciclos directos, facilitando su transmisión a los cisnes. Los céstodos y tremátodos recuperados requieren de invertebrados, renacuajos y peces como hospederos intermediarios. Sin embargo, C. melancoryphus al ser una ave estrictamente herbívora es probable que consuma dichos organismos de forma accidental. Finalmente, se hacen necesarios estudios adicionales que evalúen el impacto de los parásitos en la salud de este cisne amenazado en Chile.

Background and Aim: Parasitic infections are one of the major problems to the production of cattle in Thailand. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites of cattle in Kalasin Province, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 333 fecal samples of cattle were collected directly from the rectum. The fecal samples were subjected to formalin-ethyl acetate concentration methods for examination. The eggs or oocysts were identified based on the morphology and size of the eggs or oocysts.

Results: Out of 333 fecal samples examined, 320 were found positive for GI parasitic infections with a prevalence of 96.09%. Overall, among the prevalence of nematodes, trematodes, and protozoa, the most prevalent parasites were Strongyle-type 278 (84.24%), followed by Strongyloides spp. 54 (16.36%) and Trichuris spp. 75 (22.73%), while Protozoan oocyst recorded Eimeria spp. amounted to 131 (39.7%). Fasciola spp. and Paramphistomum spp. were 67 (20.30%) and 81 (24.55%), respectively. Most of the positive fecal samples were infected with the double infection which has the highest prevalence rate of about 40.24%, followed by single, three, and 4-5 types of parasites 30.63, 16.82, and 7.21%, respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests that Kalasin Province is highly endemic for GI parasites and this area may be an important source for an outbreak. Therefore, every household should deworm its cattle and eliminate and control snails as intermediate hosts. Findings from this study provide information that will assist in improving the cattle in Kalasin Province for better production and higher profitability.

Background and Aim: Brugia malayi is known to be zoonotically important because it can be transmitted from animals (mammals and primates) to humans or from humans to humans through mosquito vectors. This study was conducted to explore the fauna associated with Malayan filariasis transmission in Sedang village, Suak Tapeh District, Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional research design with an observational and analytical approach was applied in this study, and it was conducted in May 2018. Mosquitoes were collected twice using human bait both inside and outside the house from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. The presence of competitors, predators, and reservoir hosts in the areas of five breeding habitats of Mansonia spp. was observed. The presence of microfilaria was confirmed under a microscope in night blood samples of inhabitants and cats. The presence of infective larvae (L3) of B. malayi was identified microscopically and based on ...

Aim: This study aimed to measure the occurrence of trematodiasis in cattle along the Progo River, a district of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The findings help to establish the magnitude of the disease and encourage prevention and treatment of this condition. Materials and Methods: Trematode eggs were extracted from 100 fecal samples collected from cattle. The eggs were examined using the sedimentation technique, and the method of Parfitt and Banks was used to differentiate Paramphistomum spp. eggs from Fasciola spp. eggs. Results: The infection rate of trematode parasites was 50%. Cattle experienced multiple infections of both Paramphistomum spp. and Fasciola spp., as well as single infections of one species or the other. All breeds were vulnerable to infections of both trematode species, although different cattle breeds, including Peranakan Ongole crossbreeds, Simmental crossbreeds, and Limousin crossbreeds, showed differences in infection rate. The highest rate of infection with Paramphistomum spp. (15.78%) occurred in the Simmental crossbreeds. The highest rate of infection (31.57%) with Fasciola spp. was in the Peranakan Ongole crossbreeds. Multiple infections of both Paramphistomum spp. and Fasciola spp. were highest in Simmental crossbreed cattle (28.97%). Conclusion: The high infection rates of trematode parasites found in fecal samples, particularly of Fasciola spp., indicate that the cattle along the Progo River in Indonesia experience a high rate of trematodiasis disease.

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the anthelmintic activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Paraserianthes falcataria bark against Haemonchus contortus. Materials and Methods: Ethanol extract of bark (E.E.B.) waste and aqueous extract of bark (A.E.B.) waste of P. falcataria (at concentrations 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1, 2.5, and 5%) and albendazole (2 mg/ml) as the positive control were placed in separate Petri dishes (50 mm). Twenty H. contortus worms were placed in Petri dishes and incubated at 37°C for 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 12 h. Mortality of each worm was ensured by pressing the body of the worm with a pair of tweezers and keeping it in lukewarm water for 5 min before declaring it dead. Mortality is defined as amount of death individuals and time of mortality of each worm was recorded. The parasites were then observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at an accelerating voltage of 15 Kv. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 software, two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test to detect significant differences (p<0.05). The result was expressed as the mean ± standard deviation. Results: The E.E.B. and A.E.B. of P. falcataria contained active compounds, such as tannin, alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, steroid, and triterpenoid. E.E.B. had a higher content of phenol, while A.E.B. had a higher content of flavonoid. In this study, P. falcataria showed a significant effect (p=0.00) on H. contortus in vitro. E.E.B. (0.8%) was able to exterminate H. contortus completely after 6 h, more effective than A.E.B. (5%) while the positive control requires (2 mg/ml) after 2 h. SEM analysis of the worm treated with E.E.B. and A.E.B. showed damaged cuticle structure. Conclusion: The aqueous and ethanol extracts of P. falcataria bark waste demonstrated anthelmintic activity against H. contortus.

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) worms in Wonosobo and thin-tailed sheep from the slope of Mount Sumbing. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples (n=305) were collected directly from the rectum of Wonosobo and thin-tailed sheep during the dry and rainy seasons in Wonosobo Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. The presence of GI helminth eggs in the fecal samples was assessed using the modified McMaster egg counting technique. The identification of the eggs or oocysts was done on the basis of their morphology and size. Results: The highest prevalence of GI worms was observed in male thin-tailed sheep (76.47%) during the rainy season, whereas the lowest prevalence was observed in female Wonosobo sheep (47.36%) during the dry season. The types of GI nematodes observed in these two types of sheep were Haemonchus contortus, Ostertagia spp., Trichostrongylus spp., Bunostomum spp., Trichuris spp., and Moniezia spp. The GI worms with the highest prevalence were of Haemonchus spp. and were observed in male thin-tailed sheep. The prevalences of the two types of sheep assessed at an altitude of 1150 m above sea level were higher than those observed at the altitude of 1586 m. The prevalence of clinical and sub-clinical parasites infestation in Wonosobo and thin-tailed sheep in Kwadungan village was significantly different (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that two types of local sheep on the slope of Mount Sumbing are infected with various GI worms during the dry and rainy seasons. The highest prevalence of GI worms was found in thin-tailed sheep at an altitude of 1150 m above sea level during the rainy season, with H. contortus being the most prevalent GI parasites.

Aim: The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in cattle and sheep from three municipalities in the Colombian Northeastern Mountain. Materials and Methods: Overall, 200 fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum in cattle and sheep. The presence of helminths eggs and coccidial oocysts in fecal samples was detected using McMaster and Dennis techniques. Identification of eggs or oocysts was done on the basis of morphology and size of the eggs or oocysts. Results: The global prevalence of GI parasites was 56.3%. Regarding the prevalence by municipalities, there was no statistical association (p>0.05), indicating that the prevalence was similar in the three municipalities. The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in sheep (63%) as compared to that of cattle (50.5%), but the difference was nonsignificant (p>0.05). The most prevalent parasites were Eimeria spp., Fasciola hepatica, and Strongylida order. Regarding the results for Eimeria spp., different degrees of positivity were observed, but there was no statistical association (p>0.05) with respect to the age group. Likewise, there was no statistical association (p>0.05) between the prevalence for Strongylida order and F. hepatica with respect to the age group. Conclusion: Cattle and sheep in Colombian Northeastern Mountain were infected with helminths and coccidia. The prevalence values of GI parasites were moderate in both species warranting treatment. The presence of F. hepatica represents a risk factor to health public. Future studies are required to evaluate the parasitic dynamics throughout the year and the impact on animal production.

Background and Aim: The attention to rabbit meat production in Indonesia is comparatively less to other farm animals such as cattle and poultry industries. However, future prospect of rabbit to be seriously industrialized seemed quite promising due to rabbit is highly productive and has short reproduction cycle as well as generation interval. One of the diseases infecting many rabbits is coccidiosis caused by protozoan parasite, Eimeria spp. The infectious stage of Eimeria spp. presents ubiquitously in the environment and increases the risk of parasite transmission. Preventive methods such as vaccination are not yet fully developed, while sporadic treatment is not efficiently reduce the cases. In this study, Eimeria spp. infecting rabbits in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia, were investigated with the aim for precise diagnosis to determine targeted treatment and as a baseline epidemiological data from rabbit in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Sample collection was performed randomly for 3 months, from March 2017 to May 2017 and covered areas in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A total of 750 samples were collected. Eimeria species identification was determined morphologically from the samples after sporulation in 2.5% potassium dichromate by COCCIMORPH.

Results: Ten species of Eimeria spp. were identified in this study from the positive samples (527/750; 70.3%). Eimeria flavescens was present in 80% of the positive samples, Eimeria coeciola in 78%, Eimeria perforans in 61%, Eimeria exigua in 37%, Eimeria media in 33%, Eimeria stiedae in 31%, Eimeria irresidua in 12%, Eimeria magna in 11%, Eimeria intestinalis in 10%, and Eimeria piriformis in 10%. Coinfection as noted in 80% of the positive samples with 2-6 species in a specimen. E. flavescens and E. coeciola were the most prevalent among all Eimeria spp. (p=0.0001).

Conclusion: Eimeria spp. is detected in high prevalence among rabbit in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, with commonly occurs in mixed infections. In this paper, we describe Eimeria spp. that are circulating in Indonesia and present it as updated information to farmers and veterinarians. To the best of our knowledge, we provided the first information about rabbit coccidiosis in Indonesia.

Keywords: coccidiosis, Indonesia, rabbit.

Background and Aim: Gastrointestinal parasites identified in the wild can negatively affect host fitness, lower performance, and growth. On the other side, sympatric mammals that share habitat and resources may also cross-transmit parasites, which are often zoonotic and can contribute to morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites circulating in mammalian hosts in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park. Materials and Methods: We screened a total of 25 fecal samples collected from nine wild mammalian species, namely, western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), putty-nosed monkey (Cercopithecus nictitans), African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), blue duiker (Philantomba monticola), bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis), and red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) as well as people working as trackers (Homo sapiens) using direct microscopic observations following a sedimenta...

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the anthelmintic activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Paraserianthes falcataria bark against Haemonchus contortus. Materials and Methods: Ethanol extract of bark (E.E.B.) waste and aqueous extract of bark (A.E.B.) waste of P. falcataria (at concentrations 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1, 2.5, and 5%) and albendazole (2 mg/ml) as the positive control were placed in separate Petri dishes (50 mm). Twenty H. contortus worms were placed in Petri dishes and incubated at 37°C for 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 12 h. Mortality of each worm was ensured by pressing the body of the worm with a pair of tweezers and keeping it in lukewarm water for 5 min before declaring it dead. Mortality is defined as amount of death individuals and time of mortality of each worm was recorded. The parasites were then observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at an accelerating voltage of 15 Kv. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 software, two-way ANOVA ...

Background and Aim: Cattle are an important economic asset for the rural community in East Java Province, Indonesia. The study aimed to provide updated data of cattle farm demography, productivity, as well as the role of the absence of a bull and nematodiosis in reduced productivity of beef cattle in an upland rural area of the province. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in Sukowono village, Bondowoso region. A Census survey was conducted to collect data through interviews with farmers. Further, 102 fecal samples were taken systematically and processed using a double centrifugation method to investigate the endoparasitic nematodiosis in the cattle population. The demographic data, productivity, and nematodiosis were analyzed descriptively. The difference between proportions was analyzed using Chi-square with 95% confidence limit. The associations were described in risk ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The total cattle population was 814 heads; the range...

Background and Aim: Eimeria spp. are gastrointestinal protozoans that affect animal productivity, thereby causing symptoms that range from bloody diarrhea to death. These symptoms cause economic losses to farmers. The distribution of Eimeria spp. in cattle has, therefore, been reported to have spread widely, especially in the tropics and subtropics. Indonesia is a tropical country at high risk of Eimeria infections. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors related to the levels of eimeriosis in beef cattle originating from different geographic areas in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Here, 817 fecal samples were collected from beef cattle in Indonesia, including 282 calves, 535 adults, 530 males, and 287 females. In addition, 156 semi-intensively and 661 intensively managed cattle were randomly collected. Then, fecal samples were analyzed by parasitology examinations.

Results: Screening examination using the sugar flotation modification method showed that Eimeria spp. were prevalent in Indonesia, as 65.4% of the bacterial strain was detected. The prevalence of identified Eimeria spp. in Indonesia was highest in North Maluku (Maluku Island) (94.1%), whereas the lowest levels were observed in West Java (24.0%) (Java Island). The prevalence was also found to be higher in males (79.3%) than females (51.9%). Similarly, levels in semi-intensively managed cattle (66.7%) were higher than those subjected to intensive management (65.9%). However, its prevalence in calf and adult cattle was similar.

Conclusion: Bovine eimeriosis spp. were detected at high prevalence in Indonesia, and high-level risks were observed in infected males, including those under the semi-intensive management. In addition, although the results from oocyst examinations were based on qualitative analysis, the endemicity levels of Eimeria spp. among farms in Indonesia should be considered because Eimeria spp. were distributed in most parts of Indonesia. Based on the results of this study, we provide the first information about the prevalence of bovine eimeriosis from different geographical locations in Indonesia, which have differing climates associated with the level of the existing risk factors. Hence, farmers are advised to pay more attention to strict biosecurity techniques on their farms, thereby favoring the early control of bovine eimeriosis.

Aim: The study was conducted to determine the intensity of gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections and hematological parameters in South African communal indigenous goats in relation to anemia.

Materials and Methods: A total of 288 goats were randomly sampled in areas representing four agro-ecological zones. Fecal and blood samples were collected from the rectum and jugular vein, respectively, of each animal. The number of eggs per gram (EPG) and oocysts per gram (OPG) of feces and the hematological parameters were determined using the modified McMaster technique and a BC-2800Vet® automatic hematology analyzer, respectively. Data were analyzed using the repeated measures techniques of Minitab 17, modeling the covariance structure of the observed data.

Results: Based on EPG and OPG, goats in humid zone were significantly infected (p<0.05) with strongyles, Eimeria, Moniezia, and Trichuris spp. Hematological parameters of goats in arid and humid zone were lower (p<0.05) than those in semi-arid and dry sub-humid zone. GIP infection intensities were higher (p<0.05) in young animals than in adult and suckling goats. GIP infection intensity was similar between goat sexes, while hematological parameters were higher (p<0.05) in females. Higher (p<0.05) infection intensities for strongyles (302.90 EPG) and Eimeria (216.09 EPG) were observed in winter compared to summer (strongyles: 302.90, Eimeria: 216.09 EPG). Higher (p<0.05) values for the hematological parameters were observed during summer compared to that in winter.

Conclusion: GIP infection intensity in the winter could be associated with hypochromic and normocytic anemia which likely to affects suckling goats while in the summer could be associated with normochromic and normocytic anemia which likely to affect young goats.

Background and Aim: Cattle are an important economic asset for the rural community in East Java Province, Indonesia. The study aimed to provide updated data of cattle farm demography, productivity, as well as the role of the absence of a bull and nematodiosis in reduced productivity of beef cattle in an upland rural area of the province.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in Sukowono village, Bondowoso region. A Census survey was conducted to collect data through interviews with farmers. Further, 102 fecal samples were taken systematically and processed using a double centrifugation method to investigate the endoparasitic nematodiosis in the cattle population. The demographic data, productivity, and nematodiosis were analyzed descriptively. The difference between proportions was analyzed using Chi-square with 95% confidence limit. The associations were described in risk ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: The total cattle population was 814 heads; the range of farm size was 1-7 (median: 2) cattle. Female cattle comprised 81.8% (666/814) of the cattle population but, only 5.5% (23/422) farmers kept both bull and mature female cattle. Pregnancy rate was 26.8% (145/542) of mature female cattle. The delayed first calving time appeared in 24.8% (62/250) of heifers and calving interval of >14 months occurred in 83.2% (149/179) of multiparous cows. The prevalence of endoparasitic nematodiosis was 43.1% (44/102, 95%, CI: 38.1-52.1%). Either the absence of the bull or the nematodiosis did not associate with pregnancy rate or calving interval of cows.

Conclusion: This study indicates that the productivity of the cattle in the study area was low but may not associate with the absence of a bull or nematodiosis.

Background and Aim: Theileriosis is a parasitic disease caused by the hemoprotozoan Theileria spp. The main transmission route of this disease is through tick vector bite. Theileriosis causes economic losses in livestock such as Bali cattle. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of theileriosis and its correlation with the hematological profile of Bali cattle from the subdistrict of Muara Bulian, Batang Hari, Jambi, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Ninety-four blood samples were collected through jugular vein of Bali cattle. The presence of Theileria spp. was determined using blood smear. Routine blood tests and double-staining immunohistochemistry against CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes were conducted on all blood samples.

Results: A total of 34.04% of the samples were infected by Theileria spp. Theileriosis affected only hemoglobin level (p<0.05); it did not affect the other parameters of the hematological profile (p>0.05). However, it also decreased CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ ratio (p<0.05), besides increasing CD8+ (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Theileriosis does not change the hematological profile of Bali cattle except for the hemoglobin levels. Moreover, it promotes T-cell depletion.

Background and Aim: This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and intensity and to identify the associated risk factors and impact of trematode infection in swamp buffaloes reared under different agro-climatic conditions in Java, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: A total of 580 fecal samples were collected from swamp buffaloes in five different agro-climatic areas in Banten and Central Java Provinces, Indonesia. The fecal samples were examined using the Danish Bilharziasis Laboratory Technique to determine the prevalence and intensity of trematode infection. The risk factors for infection were determined from an in-depth interview of owners/keepers, and the results were analyzed using Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression. The infection was also correlated with swamp buffalo production parameters (body weight and body condition score [BCS]). Results: From all fecal samples, the overall prevalence of trematode infection was 64.83%, which comprised Fasciola spp. ...

Aim: The study was conducted to determine the intensity of gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections and hematological parameters in South African communal indigenous goats in relation to anemia. Materials and Methods: A total of 288 goats were randomly sampled in areas representing four agro-ecological zones. Fecal and blood samples were collected from the rectum and jugular vein, respectively, of each animal. The number of eggs per gram (EPG) and oocysts per gram (OPG) of feces and the hematological parameters were determined using the modified McMaster technique and a BC-2800Vet® automatic hematology analyzer, respectively. Data were analyzed using the repeated measures techniques of Minitab 17, modeling the covariance structure of the observed data. Results: Based on EPG and OPG, goats in humid zone were significantly infected (p&lt;0.05) with strongyles, Eimeria, Moniezia, and Trichuris spp. Hematological parameters of goats in arid and humid zone were lower (p&lt;0.05) than t...

Background and Aim: Eimeria spp. are gastrointestinal protozoans that affect animal productivity, thereby causing symptoms that range from bloody diarrhea to death. These symptoms cause economic losses to farmers. The distribution of Eimeria spp. in cattle has, therefore, been reported to have spread widely, especially in the tropics and subtropics. Indonesia is a tropical country at high risk of Eimeria infections. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors related to the levels of eimeriosis in beef cattle originating from different geographic areas in Indonesia. Materials and Methods: Here, 817 fecal samples were collected from beef cattle in Indonesia, including 282 calves, 535 adults, 530 males, and 287 females. In addition, 156 semi-intensively and 661 intensively managed cattle were randomly collected. Then, fecal samples were analyzed by parasitology examinations. Results: Screening examination using the sugar flotation modification method showed that Eimer...

Background and Aim: Goats are reared for their meat, mohair and other socio-cultural needs in Lesotho. Helminth infections are some of the major setbacks in the goat production industry due to their negative impact on animals&#39; health, resulting in significant losses on meat and mohair production and death. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence, fecal egg infestation, and morphological identification of gastrointestinal parasites in goats. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 765 goats and subjected to McMaster egg counting techniques using the flotation method. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v.26.0). Results: The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 94.7%, and the identified gastrointestinal parasites were nematodes (64.7%), coccidia (25.8%), and cestodes (4.2%). Haemonchus contortus was identified as the prevalent gastrointestinal nematode species fou...

Background and Aim: Sheep production plays a crucial role in the economy of Lesotho by increasing economic state of the rural poor. However, gastrointestinal parasites infection is the most limiting factor in sheep productivity and has a highly detrimental effect on the sheep industry. Therefore this study aimed to evaluate farmers&#39; awareness and understanding of controlling gastrointestinal parasites of merino sheep in four Lesotho agro-ecological zones. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using a simple random sampling of 106 farmers in the lowlands, foothills, mountains, and Senqu river valley. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20.00). Descriptive statistics were employed with cross-tabulations and tested with Chi-square and post hoc tests. Results: The majority of farmers (80%) were aware of the gastrointestinal parasites. Most farmers (70%) reported a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and associated it with ...

Background and Aim: Ecuador is a hugely diverse country, but information on infectious diseases in local wild animals is scarce. The aim of this study was to screen the presence of blood parasites in free-ranging wild animals admitted to the Wildlife Hospital at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, from April 2012 to January 2019. Materials and Methods: We identified blood parasites by microscopic observation of blood smears from free-ranging wildlife species that attended the Wildlife Hospital of Universidad San Francisco de Quito (Ecuador) from April 2012 to January 2019. Results: The microscopic evaluations of animals as potential reservoirs for vector-borne zoonotic blood parasites revealed the presence of Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon spp., microfilaria, Mycoplasma spp., and Trypanosoma spp. in previously unreported wildlife species. In addition, we performed a systematic review to understand the current knowledge gaps in the context of these findings....

Background and Aim: Sheep production plays a crucial role in the economy of Lesotho by increasing economic state of the rural poor. However, gastrointestinal parasites infection is the most limiting factor in sheep productivity and has a highly detrimental effect on the sheep industry. Therefore this study aimed to evaluate farmers&#39; awareness and understanding of controlling gastrointestinal parasites of merino sheep in four Lesotho agro-ecological zones. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using a simple random sampling of 106 farmers in the lowlands, foothills, mountains, and Senqu river valley. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20.00). Descriptive statistics were employed with cross-tabulations and tested with Chi-square and post hoc tests. Results: The majority of farmers (80%) were aware of the gastrointestinal parasites. Most farmers (70%) reported a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and associated it with ...

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the anthelmintic activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Paraserianthes falcataria bark against Haemonchus contortus. Materials and Methods: Ethanol extract of bark (E.E.B.) waste and aqueous extract of bark (A.E.B.) waste of P. falcataria (at concentrations 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1, 2.5, and 5%) and albendazole (2 mg/ml) as the positive control were placed in separate Petri dishes (50 mm). Twenty H. contortus worms were placed in Petri dishes and incubated at 37°C for 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 12 h. Mortality of each worm was ensured by pressing the body of the worm with a pair of tweezers and keeping it in lukewarm water for 5 min before declaring it dead. Mortality is defined as amount of death individuals and time of mortality of each worm was recorded. The parasites were then observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at an accelerating voltage of 15 Kv. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 software, two-way ANOVA ...

Background and Aim: Gastrointestinal parasites identified in the wild can negatively affect host fitness, lower performance, and growth. On the other side, sympatric mammals that share habitat and resources may also cross-transmit parasites, which are often zoonotic and can contribute to morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites circulating in mammalian hosts in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park. Materials and Methods: We screened a total of 25 fecal samples collected from nine wild mammalian species, namely, western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), putty-nosed monkey (Cercopithecus nictitans), African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), blue duiker (Philantomba monticola), bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis), and red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) as well as people working as trackers (Homo sapiens) using direct microscopic observations following a sedimenta...

Aim: The objective of this research was to identify the parasite species found in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas of Aceh cattle slaughtered in a Banda Aceh slaughterhouse using lactophenol and semichon carmine staining. Materials and Methods: Each sample out of 50 samples of gastrointestinal tract and pancreas from Aceh cattle slaughtered in a Banda Aceh slaughterhouse was separated by organ. Each organ was examined for the presence of worm. Then, the parasitic worms found were subsequently collected and separated based on class and species, followed by staining using lactophenol and semichon carmine. The worms were then identified and their prevalence was determined. Results: The results showed that three species of parasites were successfully identified, all belonging to the nematode class, namely, Oesophagostomum radiatum, Oesophagostomum columbianum, and Setaria labiatopapillosa with the prevalence of 12%, 10%, and 6%, respectively. In addition, there was one species of...

Background and Aim: Some individuals in Indonesia consume intact goat gallbladder to prevent and treat malaria. The acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile (GB) have shown mild diarrhea in mice. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of GB on parasitemia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and blood biochemistry to assess liver and kidney function in BALB/c mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Materials and Methods: Fifty healthy mice were infected with P. berghei ANKA and divided into five groups. Mice in three groups were administered 0.5 mL of 25%, 50%, or 100% of GB by gavage. Animals in Group 4 were administered 187.2 mg/kg BW of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine phosphate as a positive control (POS Group). Mice in fifth group were administered sterile water as negative (NEG) controls. Further, 30 uninfected mice were divided into groups 6-8 and administered GB as were mice in the first three groups. Group 9 included 10 uninfected and untreated anima...

Background and Aim: Some individuals in Indonesia consume intact goat gallbladder to prevent and treat malaria. The acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile (GB) have shown mild diarrhea in mice. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of GB on parasitemia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and blood biochemistry to assess liver and kidney function in BALB/c mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Materials and Methods: Fifty healthy mice were infected with P. berghei ANKA and divided into five groups. Mice in three groups were administered 0.5 mL of 25%, 50%, or 100% of GB by gavage. Animals in Group 4 were administered 187.2 mg/kg BW of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine phosphate as a positive control (POS Group). Mice in fifth group were administered sterile water as negative (NEG) controls. Further, 30 uninfected mice were divided into groups 6-8 and administered GB as were mice in the first three groups. Group 9 included 10 uninfected and untreated anima...

Background and Aim: Sheep production plays a crucial role in the economy of Lesotho by increasing economic state of the rural poor. However, gastrointestinal parasites infection is the most limiting factor in sheep productivity and has a highly detrimental effect on the sheep industry. Therefore this study aimed to evaluate farmers&#39; awareness and understanding of controlling gastrointestinal parasites of merino sheep in four Lesotho agro-ecological zones. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using a simple random sampling of 106 farmers in the lowlands, foothills, mountains, and Senqu river valley. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20.00). Descriptive statistics were employed with cross-tabulations and tested with Chi-square and post hoc tests. Results: The majority of farmers (80%) were aware of the gastrointestinal parasites. Most farmers (70%) reported a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and associated it with ...

Background and Aim: Eimeria spp. are gastrointestinal protozoans that affect animal productivity, thereby causing symptoms that range from bloody diarrhea to death. These symptoms cause economic losses to farmers. The distribution of Eimeria spp. in cattle has, therefore, been reported to have spread widely, especially in the tropics and subtropics. Indonesia is a tropical country at high risk of Eimeria infections. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors related to the levels of eimeriosis in beef cattle originating from different geographic areas in Indonesia. Materials and Methods: Here, 817 fecal samples were collected from beef cattle in Indonesia, including 282 calves, 535 adults, 530 males, and 287 females. In addition, 156 semi-intensively and 661 intensively managed cattle were randomly collected. Then, fecal samples were analyzed by parasitology examinations. Results: Screening examination using the sugar flotation modification method showed that Eimer...

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the relative white blood cell (WBC) counts and the heterophil-to-lymphocyte (H/L) ratio and to analyze the presence of blood parasites in wild dugongs at Lingayan Island. It is expected that the results of this study could provide additional knowledge about the physiological conditions of wild dugongs in their natural habitats, which can serve as basic data in dugong conservation efforts, especially in Indonesia. Materials and Methods: A wild dugong was captured around Lingayan Island. Blood samples were collected from the saphenous vein, and blood smears were prepared immediately. The blood smears were examined for leukocyte identification, calculation of relative WBC counts, and presence of blood parasites. The H/L ratio was calculated based on the obtained relative WBC counts. Results: The relative WBC counts included heterophils 19.4%, lymphocytes 76.4%, and monocytes 3.6%, and the H/L ratio was 0.25. Intraerythrocytic parasites were ...

Background and Aim: Some individuals in Indonesia consume intact goat gallbladder to prevent and treat malaria. The acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile (GB) have shown mild diarrhea in mice. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of GB on parasitemia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and blood biochemistry to assess liver and kidney function in BALB/c mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Materials and Methods: Fifty healthy mice were infected with P. berghei ANKA and divided into five groups. Mice in three groups were administered 0.5 mL of 25%, 50%, or 100% of GB by gavage. Animals in Group 4 were administered 187.2 mg/kg BW of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine phosphate as a positive control (POS Group). Mice in fifth group were administered sterile water as negative (NEG) controls. Further, 30 uninfected mice were divided into groups 6-8 and administered GB as were mice in the first three groups. Group 9 included 10 uninfected and untreated anima...

Aim: The aim of this study was to characterize Leucocytozoon caulleryi from backyard chickens in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Tissue samples were collected from backyard chickens suspected to have leucocytozoonosis and subjected to histopathology examination. The BLAST Tool at NCBI GenBank (Basic Local Alignment Research Tools) (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/BLAST) was used to identify the nucleotide sequence of the partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox I) gene. A Phylogenetic tree for analysis of L. caulleryi was constructed by using MEGA 7.0 software (https:// www.megasoftware.net/).

Results: The necropsy results revealed the subcutaneous hemorrhages of pectoral muscles, multifocal hemorrhages of the thymus and pectoral muscles, hemorrhage of the proventriculus and peritoneal cavity, and megaloschizonts of the pancreas and intestine, including subcapsular hemorrhages of the liver. Microscopic examination revealed numerous megaloschizonts of Leucocytozoon spp. in the pectoral muscles, intestine, pancreas, and thymus. Molecular analysis of the partial cox I gene showed that the causal agent was closely related to L. caulleryi reported in Japan.

Conclusion: From these results, L. caulleryi was determined to be the causal agent of leucocytozoonosis and was closely associated with L. caulleryi reported in Japan.

Background and Aim: Sheep production plays a crucial role in the economy of Lesotho by increasing economic state of the rural poor. However, gastrointestinal parasites infection is the most limiting factor in sheep productivity and has a highly detrimental effect on the sheep industry. Therefore this study aimed to evaluate farmers&#39; awareness and understanding of controlling gastrointestinal parasites of merino sheep in four Lesotho agro-ecological zones. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using a simple random sampling of 106 farmers in the lowlands, foothills, mountains, and Senqu river valley. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20.00). Descriptive statistics were employed with cross-tabulations and tested with Chi-square and post hoc tests. Results: The majority of farmers (80%) were aware of the gastrointestinal parasites. Most farmers (70%) reported a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and associated it with ...

Background and Aim: The Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species (critically endangered) due to high levels of illegal trafficking for its products. Thailand is one of the habitats of this species, and it has become the main hub for its illegal trafficking. Rehabilitating these captive pangolins and reintroducing them back to the wild are challenging due to the limited knowledge on their diet, management, and diseases. Hemoparasites, including Babesia spp., can cause important protozoal infections in both domestic and wild animals, resulting in the failure of rehabilitation and conservation programs. However, Babesia spp. has not been reported in pangolins. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of Babesia spp. in the Sunda pangolin of Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 128 confiscated Sunda pangolins from across different regions in Thailand were investigated. These pangolins had been admitted to a regional Wildlife Quarantine Center for rehabilitation before release in the forest. Routine physical examinations were conducted on the animals. We collected blood samples from each pangolin for hematological analysis and to detect Babesia spp. using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the partial 18s rRNA gene.

Results: Babesia-specific PCR detected 53 animals (41.4%) that were positive for Babesia spp. Blood smears were obtained from the positive samples and investigated under a light microscope to observe for trophozoites of Babesia spp. Examination of 40 PCR-positive and -negative samples found no significant differences between the hematological parameters of Babesia-positive and Babesia-negative samples. Eight PCR-positive samples were randomly selected and their DNA was sequenced. Seven and one of sequences match uncharacterized Babesia spp. with 100% and 99.2% similarity, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that our samples form a unique monophyletic clade along with other Babesia spp. detected in the wild. This clade is clearly separated from other Babesia spp. from small carnivores, ruminants, and rats.

Conclusion: Our results provide evidence of infection of Sunda pangolins in Thailand by Babesia spp. These pangolins originated from different regions and had not lived together before blood collection. Thus, we suggest that the uncharacterized Babesia spp. found in this study constitute a new group of pangolin-specific Babesia spp. The prevalence of the uncharacterized Babesia spp. was not correlated to pangolin health. Further studies are required to characterize the genomes and phenotypes, including the morphology and pathogenicity of these protozoa. Such information will be helpful for the conservation and health management of the Sunda pangolin.