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Epidemiology of Common Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Goats reared in Semi-Arid Region of India

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A total of 1419 faecal samples of goats collected and examined for gastrointestinal parasitic infestations for a period of 9 months (August 2015 to April 2016) revealed overall prevalence of 86.11 percent. The common parasitic infections prevalent were coccidian (71.45%), strongyle (28.40%), Moniezia spp. (18.74%) and Strongyloides spp. (0.70%). Highest prevalence of coccidia (81.07%) was observed in Jamunapari goats, while highest strongyle prevalence (30.64%) was observed in Barbari goats. Jakhrana goats showed highest prevalence rate of Moniezia spp. infection. Age-wise, prevalence of coccidian oocysts was highest in >6-12M age group while higher prevalence of strongyles was observed in > 6M age. Moniezia spp. infection, however, was more prevalent in goats of 2-6M age group. Month-wise, prevalence was higher in during September and October. The intensity of coccidian infection in terms of overall least squares means of coccidian oocysts count per gram of faeces (LFOC) was 4.673±.007, while the corresponding least squares means (Transformed value) of eggs per gram of faeces (LFEC) of strongyles and Moniezia spp. were 4.628±.002, 4.625±.003, respectively. Factors like breed, age of animal and collection month significantly influenced (P<0.01) the total coccidian and strongyle intensity (faecal oocysts/ eggs count). Eimeria infection involved was of mixed nature, while nematode infections showed preponderance of Haemonchus spp. The most common Eimeria spp. recorded were E. arloingi and E. ninakohlyakimovae.
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Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, p. 39-45. February 2018
DOI: 10.30954/2277-940X.2018.00150.07
Epidemiology of Common Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Goats reared
in Semi-Arid Region of India
Rupesh Verma1, Dinesh Kumar Sharma2*, Souvik Paul2, Kumaresan Gururaj2, Mahesh Dige2,
Vishesh Kumar Saxena3, Pramod Kumar Rout2, Saket Bhusan2 and P.S. Banerjee4
1Department of Parasitology, Veterinary College, NDVS University, M.P., INDIA
2ICAR- Central Institute for Research On Goats, Makhdoom Farah Dist. Mathura (UP), INDIA
3ICAR: Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly Uttar Pradesh, INDIA
4ICAR- IVRI Izatnagar, Bareilly Uttar Pradesh, INDIA
*Corresponding author: DK Sharma; Email: lkofwb@yahoo.co.in
Received: 04 Sept., 2017 Revised: 16 Dec., 2017 Accepted: 19 Dec., 2017
ABSTRACT
A total of 1419 faecal samples of goats collected and examined for gastrointestinal parasitic infestations for a period of 9
months (August 2015 to April 2016) revealed overall prevalence of 86.11 percent. The common parasitic infections prevalent
were coccidian (71.45%), strongyle (28.40%), Moniezia spp. (18.74%) and Strongyloides spp. (0.70%). Highest prevalence of
coccidia (81.07%) was observed in Jamunapari goats, while highest strongyle prevalence (30.64%) was observed in Barbari
goats. Jakhrana goats showed highest prevalence rate of Moniezia spp. infection. Age-wise, prevalence of coccidian oocysts
was highest in >6-12M age group while higher prevalence of strongyles was observed in > 6M age. Moniezia spp. infection,
however, was more prevalent in goats of 2-6M age group. Month-wise, prevalence was higher in during September and October.
The intensity of coccidian infection in terms of overall least squares means of coccidian oocysts count per gram of faeces
(LFOC) was 4.673±.007, while the corresponding least squares means (Transformed value) of eggs per gram of faeces (LFEC)
of strongyles and Moniezia spp. were 4.628±.002, 4.625±.003, respectively. Factors like breed, age of animal and collection
month signicantly inuenced (P<0.01) the total coccidian and strongyle intensity (faecal oocysts/ eggs count). Eimeria
infection involved was of mixed nature, while nematode infections showed preponderance of Haemonchus spp. The most
common Eimeria spp. recorded were E. arloingi and E. ninakohlyakimovae.
Keywords: Goat, epidemiology, gastrointestinal parasites
Goats are reared for milk and meat purpose. They are
more adapted to harsh environmental conditions and
have ability to efciently convert low-quality fodder into
energy efcient fat, muscle and milk. Goats’ demand in
food is growing rapidly as they provide the wonderful
source of animal proteins. However, gastrointestinal
parasite infections, mixed or single species, are major
problems affecting goats in tropical and temperate climates
(Rahman, 1994; Borgsteede and Dercksen, 1996). The
problems like anorexia, general weakness, gastritis,
enteritis, diarrhoea, anaemia caused by GI parasites lower
the production in goats. Stress factors such as weaning,
dietary changes, inclement weather, travel and regrouping
are common predisposing factors (Urquhart et al., 1987).
The study here deals with epidemiology of common
gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infections affecting goats in
the light of various determinant factors like breed, age, sex
and various climate conditions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Location of work and Animals
The study was conducted at Central Institute for Research
on Goats, Makhdoom, Mathura, India, The institute
is located at 10°N longitude and 78.02°E latitude and
169m MSL in the ravine of Yamuna river in North India.
40 Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, February 2018
Verma et al.
The climate of the place is semi-arid with temperature
ranging 29-48 °C in summer and 1-10 °C in winters.
The vegetation is scarce in sandy soil with salinity of
drinking water as high as > 2000 tdn. The goat ocks are
maintained here in semi intensive system of goat rearing,
characterized with 4-6 hrs grazing in different seasons
and daily supplementation of concentrate mix depending
on physiological need of the animals and availability of
feed fodder in grazing ground. The animals are dewormed
routinely with application of anthelmintics viz. Valbazine,
twice annually i.e. pre and post monsoon, as scheduled in
health care management.
Sample collection and parasitological procedures
A total 1419 faecal samples of goats were collected and
examined at CIRG, Makhdoom, Mathura, UP over a
period 8 months (August 2015 to March 2016). At the
time of sample collection, the breed, age and sex of goats
was also recorded. The faecal samples were collected
directly from the rectum and examined qualitatively using
oatation for evaluating the incidence of infections. For
quantication of infections, the oocysts per gram of faeces
for Eimeria spp. (FOC) and eggs per gram of faeces for
strongyles (FEC) in each positive sample were determined
by modied McMaster technique (Sloss et al., 1994).
Identication of the oocysts in the samples was made on
the basis of morphological and sporulation characteristics
in case of Eimeria species and morphology of eggs and
hatched out larvae in case of strongyles (Soulsby, 1982;
Hansen and Perry, 1994).
Statistical Analysis
Four factor factorial analysis of variance techniques was
used to adjudge the inuences of sex (male/female),
breed, month and age (2-6, >6-12 and above 12 month)
along with their possible interactions. Main effects were
further compared by Duncan’s multiple range tests at 5%
level of signicance. Data of faecal oocysts/eggs count
for kids and adults were subjected to log transformation
as it might be skewed. The log transformation was done
by adding 100 (FOC/FEC+100) as this transformation
was found suitable and appropriate for this data set. The
transformed data was used for statistical analysis by SPSS
V-16.0 including all main interactions. The results were
back transformed by taking antilogarithms of least squares
means, subtracting 100 and the nal result were presented
as Geometric means (GFOC/GFEC).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
A total 1419 faecal samples of goats were collected and
examined for presence of eggs/ oocysts of gastrointestinal
parasites by routine parasitological procedures. Results of
analysed data have been described in Table 1-3.
Prevalence of infection
Out of the 1419 animals examined, 1222 (86.05 %) were
found positive with one or more parasites. The prevalence
of coccidia, strongyles and Moniezia spp. was 71.45
(1014), 28.40 (403) and 18.74 (266) percent, respectively
(Table 1). Nematode infections showed preponderance of
Haemonchus contortus while Strongyloides papillosus
infection was sporadic. Moniezia infection involved two
common species Moniezia expansa and M. benedeni.
Depending on oocyst shape, size, presence or absence
of micropyle, oocyst wall and sporulation time, nine
species of Eimeria viz. Eimeria alijevi (17.65%), E.
apsheronica (0.14%), E. arloingi (36.90%), E. caprina
(1.01%), E. christenseni (18.08%), E. hirci (1.15%), E.
jolchijevi (0.14%), E. ninakohlyakimovae (22.28%) and
E. caprovina (2.60%) were identied (Table 2). Eimeria
arloingi predominated the eimerian infections and was
followed by E. ninakohlyakimovae. Age wise analysis
of data showed that goats in >6-12M group had higher
prevalence of coccidian infections compared to 2-6M and
>12M old goats (Table 1).
Sex wise data analysis showed that prevalence of various
infections like coccidia, strongyles and Moniezia spp. in
male goats was 71.55, 30.64 and 14.67 percent, respectively,
while corresponding values in females were 71.39, 27.00
and 21.28 percent, respectively (Table 1). Among breeds,
Jamunapari showed highest prevalence rate (81.07%)
of coccidian infection while highest strongyle (32.43%)
and Moniezia spp. (32.29 %) prevalence was recorded in
Barbari and Jakhrana, respectively (Table 1). During eight
months study, the hot and humid months of September and
October showed highest prevalence of infection (Fig. 1).
Study revealed that coccidia, strongyles and Moniezia
species were common gastro-intestinal parasitic infections
in goats. Other sporadic infection seen in goats during
Epidemiology of common gastrointestinal parasitic infections in goats
Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, February 2018 41
Table 1: Prevalence of parasitic infections in goats CIRG Makhdoom
Total Sample Coccidia
(%)
Strongyles
(%)
Moniezia
(%)
Strongyloides
(%)
Overall 1419 71.45 (1014) 28.40 (403) 18.74 (266) 0.70(10)
Age
2-6 Month 765 70.19 (537) 25.22 (193) 20.00 (153) 0.78(6)
>6-12 Month 343 79.88 (274) 32.06 (110) 26.23 (90) 0.29(1)
>12 Month 311 65.27 (203) 32.15 (100) 7.39 (23) 0.64 (2)
Sex
Male 545 71.55 (390) 30.64 (167) 14.67 (80) 1.28 (7)
Female 874 71.39 (624) 27.00 (236) 21.28 (186) 0.22(2)
Breeds
Barbari 632 65.98 (417) 32.43 (205) 16.61 (105) 0.94 (6)
Jamunapari 465 81.07 (377) 25.59 (119) 12.25 (57)
Jakhrana 322 68.32 (220) 24.84 (80) 32.29 (104) 0.62(2)
Months
August 137 72.99 (100) 43.06 (59) 37.22 (51) 0.72 (1)
September 70 80.00(56) 71.42 (50) 44.28 (31)
October 350 80.28 (281) 46.85 (164) 22.57 (79) 1.14 (4)
November 145 64.13 (93) 11.03 (16) 20.68 (30)
January 412 78.39 (323) 21.11 (87) 15.53 (64) 0.72 (3)
February 96 55.20 (53) 6.25 (6) 1.04 (1)
March 83 51.80 (43) 6.02 (5) 7.22 (6)
April 126 51.58 (65) 12.69 (16) 3.96 (5)
Table 2: Morphological characteristics of different Eimeria species in goats
Species Oocysts Length × Width (µm) Average Sporulation time
(days)
*Reference
(Min-Max.)
Observed (Min-max) Reference Observed
Eimeria alijevi No/inconspicuous micropyle 15-23 × 12-22 14- 22 × 11-22 1-5 1-5
E. apsheronica Micropyle present 24-37 × 18-26 25-36 × 18-25 1-2 1-6
E. arloingi Micropyle present with prominent cap 24-33 × 18-25 20-34 × 16-28 1-4 1-6
E. caprina Micropyle present with cap 30-42 × 20-28 28-39 × 20-29 2-3 1-6
E. christenseni Micropyle present with prominent
cap
32-46 × 20-29 32-48 × 20-30 2-6 1-5
E. hirci Micropyle present with polar cap 17-19 × 14-22 19-20 × 14-24 2-3 1-6
E. jolchijevi Micropyle present with polar cap 26-37 × 18-26 26-38 × 19-25 2-4 1-6
E. ninakohlyakimovae Micropyle present but may be
indistinct
19-28 × 14-23 19-28 × 15-23 1-4 1-5
E. caprovina Micropyle present with polar cap 22-26 × 21-28 22-28 × 21-30 1-4 1-6
Min –minimum, Max- maximum; *Taylor et al. 2007.
42 Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, February 2018
Verma et al.
study was of Strongyloides spp. Studies from different parts
of India (Singh et al., 2013; Choubisa and Jaroli, 2013;
Singh et al., 2015) also revealed high prevalence rates of
gastrointestinal parasites up to 94.48 percent. Variations
in prevalence of infections can be explained on the basis
of genetic variations among breeds and due to variability
in management practices like feeding, watering, housing,
rearing, stocking rate, health control measures along with
varied climatic conditions of geographical area.
72.99
80 80.28
64.13
78.39
55.2
51.8
51.5851.58
71.42
46.85
11.03
21.11
6.25
6.02
12.69
37.22
44.28
22.57
20.68
15.53
0
7.22
3.96
0.72 01.14 00.72
1.04
00
Coccidia Strongyles Moniezia Strongyloides
Fig. 1: Month wise percent prevalence of gastrointestinal
parasitic infections
Prevalence of coccidian infection (71.45 %) was highest
among gastrointestinal parasitic infections in present
study. Observations were similar to some other studies
conducted in India and abroad (Obijiaku and Agbede
2007; Jatau et al., 2011; Singh et al., 2015) describing
coccidiosis as major parasitic problem in small ruminants.
Sharma et al. (2009) reported coccidian prevalence of
42.86 percent in Jakhrana goats from CIRG, Makhodoom.
Nine Eimeria species identied in the present study were
similar to some previous reports (Sharma et al., 2009;
Chartier and Paraud 2012; Balicka-Ramisz et al., 2012).
Most frequent and predominant species, Eimeria arloingi
and E. ninakohlyakimovae were also reported earlier
(Kumar et al., 2005; Balicka-Ramisz, et al., 2012). The
difference in prevalence might be due to geographical and
agro-climatic variability, seasons and number of animals
included in various studies along with management
practices adopted locally.
Strongyle prevalence of 28.40 percent was comparable to
previous reports from India (Sharma et al. 2009; Singh et
al., 2013). However, our nding was in contrast to Brahma
et al. (2015) from West Bengal, India who reported much
higher GI helminth prevalence rate of 71 percent. Lower
prevalence rate in our study can be attributed to preventive
health control measures adopted at the farm at CIRG,
Makhdoom. Predominance of Haemonchus contortus
infection encountered in the present study was similar as
reported by some other workers (Faizal and Rajapakse,
2001; Almalaik et al., 2008; Ikem et al., 2013; Raza et
al., 2014). The nding can be attributed to the fact that
this nematode has a relatively short generation interval
and ability to take advantage of favourable environmental
conditions. Strongyloides spp. infection in the study was
similar as described by various workers from India and
abroad (Singh et al., 2010; Rabbi et al., 2011; Raza et al.,
2014; Khajuria et al., 2014) in goats.
The prevalence of Moniezia spp. infection (18.74 %) in
goats in the study was quite high. Finding was similar
to that of Hailelul (2002) from Ethiopia and Hossain et
al. (2015) from Bangladesh who reported moniezial
prevalence of 16.13, 23.81 and 35.56 percent, respectively.
High prevalence rate of Moniezia spp. infection suggests
the availability of intermediate host, the oribated mites.
Faecal oocysts/eggs count (FOC/FEC)
Faecal oocysts/egg counts (FOC/FEC) for coccidia and
strongyle infections recorded in goats during the present
study have been described as least squares means in Table
3. While overall mean LFOC was 4.673±.007(1403), the
overall means LFEC for strongyle worms and Moniezia
spp. were 4.628±0.002 (461), 4.625±0.002 (401)
respectively. Breed-wise Jamunapari had signicantly
higher LFOC (2229) than Jakhrana (1967) and Barbari
(1425) goats.
Age wise analysis of data revealed that there was
signicant difference (p<0.01) in mean LFOC/LFEC in
three age groups. The mean LFOC in 6-12 M age group
was signicantly higher than the corresponding values
in 2-6M and> 12 M age group. In contrast, mean LFEC
value for strongyles was signicantly higher in >12
M age group. Mean LFEC for Moniezia, however was
signicantly higher in 6-12M age group. The age of animal
was found to be a determinant factor inuencing the FOC/
FEC in G.I. parasites affected animals. Month wise mean
LFOC/ LFEC in G.I. parasite infected animals were found
Epidemiology of common gastrointestinal parasitic infections in goats
Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, February 2018 43
signicantly different. As such, the LFOC/LFEC in hot-
humid months i.e. August, September and October was
signicant higher. Statistical analysis of data showed that
both sexes were equally affected with coccidiosis as mean
LFOC/ LFEC in males and female goats were statistically
similar.
Age wise data analysis revealed variation in parasites
prevalence in different ages of goats. High prevalence rate
of gastrointestinal parasites in young animals recorded in
the present study is similar to that reported by Sharma et
al. (2009); Emiru et al. (2013) and can be supported by the
fact that kids are more vulnerable as compared to adults
and worm burdens decrease with increasing age due to
immunological maturity acquired after repeated exposure.
Higher coccidian prevalence and mean LFOC in Jamunapari
goats compared to Barbari and Jakhrana seems to be more
due to variations in management practices than the genetic
difference as coccidiosis is a management problem and
improved management and veterinary practices can reduce
the prevalence of coccidian. Higher strongyle prevalence
and mean LFEC in Barbari can be attributed to local
goat management at farm or due to physiological status
of animals involved in study as Jamumapari has been
considered a susceptible breed to Haemonchus infection
(Nimisha et al., 2012; Nimisha et al., 2015). Higher
moniezial prevalence in Jakhrana and Barbari goats can
be attributed to probable availability of intermediate host
of parasite in the vicinity. The prevalence of GI helminths
is governed both by genetics of the host as well as the
local management and environmental factors. However,
proportional contribution of any factor in particular case
is difcult to ascertain.
Effect of sex of animals was not signicant except in
strongyle infection where mean LFEC was signicantly
higher in female. Higher mean LFEC of strongyle eggs in
females has also been reported by Nimisha et al. (2015),
Table 3: Factor-wise Least Squares and Geometric Means of FOC/FEC of different parasites
Source of variation Obs. Coccidia Strongyles Moniezia
LFOC GFOC LFEC GFEC LFEC GFEC
Overall 1285 4.673±.007 1403 4.628±.002 461 4.625±.003 401
Breed
Barbari 545 4.674 a±.009 1425 4.634 a ±.003 584 4.620a±.004 299
Jamunapari 465 4.714b ±.009 2229 4.620 b ±.003 298 4.609 b±.003 77
Jakhrana 275 4.699 b ±.012 1967 4.618b±.004 258 4.640 c ±.005 708
Age
1-6 Month 719 4.703 a ±.008 2055 4.615 a ±.002 197 4.625a ±.003 400
>6-12 Month 343 4.699 ab ±.012 1967 4.634 b ±.004 585 4.618 a ±.005 258
>12 month 223 4.655 b ±.014 1021 4.647c ±.004 854 4.609b±.005 77
Sex
Male 534 4.677±.010 1489 4.624 a ±.003 380 4.626±.004 421
Female 751 4.668±.007 1296 4.632b ±.002 543 4.624±.003 380
Months
Aug. 129 4.728 c ±.015 2613 4.634 b ±.005 585 4.648 a ±.006 875
Sept. 70 4.731 c ±.019 2681 4.641 bc ±.006 729 4.643a ±.008 771
Oct. 350 4.680a ±.009 1554 4.651 c ±.003 938 4.618b ±.003 258
Nov. 145 4.658ab ±.014 1085 4.609 a ±.004 76 4.612 b ±.006 137
Jan. 412 4.721 c ±.010 2456 4.613 a ±.003 157 4.620 b ±.004 299
Feb. 96 4.659ab ±.017 1106 4.606 a ±.005 16 4.605 b ±.007 0
Mar. 83 4.633a ±.019 564 4.508 a ±.006 0 4.606 b ±.007 17
*Means in each main effect bearing same superscript do not differ signicantly (P<0.05); * LFOC/LFEC - Least Squares means of transformed
faecal oocyst/egg count data; *GFOC/ GFEC- Geometric means of faecal oocyst/egg count data.
44 Journal of Animal Research: v.8 n.1, February 2018
Verma et al.
who attributed this variation to physiological status like
pregnancy/ lactation which causes dip in natural body
resistance in goats against parasites. Maqsood et al. (1996)
and Sharma et al. (2009) also reported higher prevalence
of gastrointestinal parasites in females than in males.
However, Fikru et al. (2006) and Tefera et al. (2009)
showed that sex of animals did not affect prevalence of
gastrointestinal parasites in small ruminants. Contrary
to the current results, Ayaz et al. (2013) reported that
prevalence and intensity of infection were higher in
males than females. Higher prevalence of gastrointestinal
parasite infection in wet months compared to winter
months has been reported by various workers (Nwosu et
al., 2007; Sharma et al., 2009; Singh et al., 2015).
The present study corroborates the previous ndings
(Table 1). The mean LFOC and LFEC in coccidial and
helminthic infections (both strongyle and Moniezia), for
wet and humid months were signicantly higher (Table 3).
High humidity and temperature during the post monsoon
period are favourable for the development, optimum
sporulation/ hatching, survival and translocation of pre-
parasitic stages, which might be the precipitating factors
for higher prevalence and intensity of infection (LFOC/
LFEC) in wet months. In winter, reduced grazing hours
also reduce the chances of contact between the host and
parasites leading to lower prevalence in winter months.
Further, inclement environmental conditions in winter
force the strongyles to go under hypobiosis, resulting
reduced egg production.
CONCLUSION
The results of study will help in better understanding of
parasitic problem in goats in local farm conditions and
emphasize the need based planning of control measures to
control GI parasites for ensuring better production.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Authors duly acknowledge the nancial and technical
help of Director, Central Institute For Research on Goats,
Makhdoom and Director, IVRI, Izatnagar for co-ordinating
the research assistance.
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... The higher infection intensity of Moniezia spp. observed in semi-arid goat populations could be attributed to shorter rainy seasons and higher temperatures [38,57], which may be conducive for Moniezia spp. development or to increased availability of intermediate parasite hosts in the vicinity [58]. ...
... development or to increased availability of intermediate parasite hosts in the vicinity [58]. The lower infection intensity observed for strongyles, S. papillosus, Moniezia, Eimeria, and Trichuris spp. in arid zone may have been attributed to warmer temperatures and low erratic rainfall levels [38,57], which are unfavorable for the GIP development, survival, and transmission [43,56]. However, in contrast to our current findings, a lack of variation in GIP infection intensity across different locations has also been reported [54,58]. ...
... Contrary to our current findings that suckling and adult goats were equally infected with Eimeria (p>0.05), Verma et al. [57] reported that goats between 1 and 6 months of age (suckling kids) are heavily infected with Eimeria compared to those of goats older than 12 months of age (adults). The observed difference in suckling, young, and adult South African communal indigenous goats suggests that the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood was higher in adult goats, which can be supported by the fact that immunological maturity is acquired with increasing age after repeated exposure [57]. ...
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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.
... However, several authors have previously reported that Eimeria spp. infection is the most prevalent among GIP in goats [44][45][46]. The present finding that the overall prevalence of Trichuris and S. papillosus was 26.4 and 31.8%, ...
... [40]. However, the prevalence of Eimeria spp. in the semi-arid zone (26.3%) was not comparable to the prevalence in semi-arid zones in India (71.45%) [46] and Ethiopia (15.7%) [50]. The prevalence of Trichuris spp. ...
... Contrary to the present findings that goat age was significantly associated with the prevalence of GIPs, several authors [27,32,42] observed that the age of the animals was not significantly associated with the prevalence of the GIP. Furthermore, in contrast to the findings of the present study, Verma et al. [46] reported that suckling goats were more heavily infected with Eimeria and Moniezia spp. than young or adult goats. ...
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Aim: A longitudinal study was conducted to assess the epidemiology of common gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections affecting goats in South Africa as influenced by agro-ecological zone (AEZ), sampling season, and the age and sex of animals. Materials and methods: A total of 288 goats (101 male and 187 female) were randomly sampled during winter and summer in areas representing four AEZs (arid: 80; semi-arid: 76; humid: 62; and dry sub-humid: 70) of South Africa. Fecal samples from each animal were collected from the rectum, and the presence of GIP eggs was determined using a modified McMaster technique. A sample was considered positive when a minimum of one GIP egg was detected under the microscope. Fecal cultures were prepared, and infective larvae were collected and identified. The data were analyzed by MiniTab17 (2017) using the FREQ procedure, and the association between the independent factors and the prevalence of various GIPs were evaluated using the Pearson Chi-square test (p<0.05). Results: The overall prevalence of GIP in the present study was 37.1%, with a mean prevalence of 30.0, 26.4, 31.1, 36.6, and 59.6% for Eimeria spp., Trichuris, Strongyloides papillosus, Moniezia spp., and strongyles, respectively. There was a significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of strongyles, Trichuris, Moniezia spp., and AEZs, whereas an insignificant (p>0.05) association was observed for the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and S. papillosus. A significant (p<0.05) association between goat age and prevalence of all GIPs was observed, where the prevalence was higher in young goats, followed by adults, and then by suckling goats. The prevalence of various GIPs was similar between male and female goats. The percentage of infection with Eimeria spp., Trichuris, S. papillosus, and strongyle parasitic infections was marginally higher in males than in females, whereas that of the Moniezia spp. was higher in females. A significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and sampling season was observed, and there was an insignificant (p>0.05) association between the other GIPs and sampling season. The prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection was higher in winter (34.0%) than in summer (26.0%). Conclusion: AEZs and goat age are the most important risk factors influencing GIP infections in South African communal goats. These epidemiological parameters are important for outlining effective parasite control management systems against these GIPs in goats.
... Similarly, Ibrahim (2012) observed a slightly higher infection rate in males (55.19%) compared to females (51.63%). Additionally, Verma et al. (2018) also discovered that the rates of infection in males were greater than that in females, 71.55% and 71.39% respectively. Male animals may be more susceptible to infections due to the immunosuppressive effects of high androgen levels, particularly testosterone, in their plasma during the reproductive season (Souza et al., 2015). ...
... The mentioned species were diagnosed based on the measurements described by Taylor et al. (2007) and Verma et al. (2018). Numerous publications have been conducted on this particular subject. ...
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Eimeriosis is a major problem affecting ruminants worldwide. The disease is primarily caused by Eimeria species, which are specialized for each host and grow in the small and large intestine of animals. The losses due to subclinical infections (especially weight loss) and clinical disease (diarrhea) make the species of this genus a very significant economic concern. Therefore, this study was conducted in some areas of Wasit Province. A total of 180 fecal samples from goats, of both sexes and covering different age groups and months, were collected. All fecal samples were examined microscopically, and 75 positive fecal samples were taken for molecular examination and further analyzed using conventional PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Microscopic results showed that the overall infection rate was 41.6%. The incidence of Eimeria species ranged from 5.55% to 22.22% across three different species of the genus Emeria Schneider, 1875, namely E. arloingi (Marotel, 1905), Martin, 1909 (22.22%), E. christenseni Levine, Ivens & Fritz, 1962 (13.88%), and E. hirci Chevalier, 1966 (5.55%). Regarding the PCR reaction, results from the 18S rRNA, COI gene and genetic sequencing, Confirmed that the fecal samples were positive for Eimeria Schneider, 1875 species.
... The present study revealed that the prevalence of Moniezia spp. was 7.31%. Such finding was lower than that conducted by Sultan et al. [3] and Hassan et al. [38] in Giza, Egypt, Negasi et al. [53], Das et al. [54] and Verma et al. [61] who recorded Moniezia spp. with prevalences of 18.22%, 19.04%, 15.09%, 10.0% and 18.74%, respectively. In Egypt, Abdelazeem et al. [4] recorded a lower infection rate of 6.7%. ...
... Such prevalence was lower than that given by Hassan et al. [38] who recorded prevalence of S. papillosus with 3.55% in Egypt, Dabasa et al. [50] who reported Strongyloides spp. in 25.36%, Singh et al. [74] (9.17%), Yusof [8] (45.6%), Das et al. [54] (8.91%) and Verma et al. [61] (0.7%). Such discrepancy might be due to the existence of various degrees of immunity of examined animals as well as geographical and environmental and managemental system. ...
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Background Helminth and coccidian infections are among potential parasitic infections in the livestock production. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal helminths as well as Eimeia species in domestic goats. Results The overall prevalence of parasitic infections was 50.24% (206/410). Twenty two species of helminth eggs/ Eimeria spp. oocysts were revealed. The prevalence of helminths was 21.95% (90/410) and that of Eimeria spp. was 39.27% (161/410). Mixed infection was reported in 10.98% (45/410). The highest prevalence was found in young animals (75.0%; 60/80) followed by yearlings (58.46%; 76/130) and the lowest one was in adults (35.0%; 70/200). The infection rate was higher in females (59.02%; 180/305) than males (24.76%; 26/105). The prevalence was mostly highest in summer (63.85%; 83/130) followed by winter (57.78%; 52/90), autumn (40.0%; 28/70) and the lowest one was in spring (35.83%; 43/120). Age, sex and seasonal variations revealed significant ( P ≤ 0.05) differences among examined goats. The infection with both nematodes and Eimeria spp. were detected in 7.32% (30/410). The co-infection with Eimeria spp. and tapeworms were found in 2.93% (12/410). Both trematodes and Eimeria spp. were seen in 0.73% (3/410) of examined specimens. Nine Eimeria species were recorded; Eimeria ninakohlyakim-ovae , E. hirci , E . caprinova , E. caprina , E. christenseni , E. jolchijevi , E. arloingi, E. apsheronica and E. alijevi . The most predominant Eimeria species was E. arloingi (23.17%; 95/410) and the least abundant one was E. apsheronica (0.73%; 3/410). The revealed trematodes were Fasciola spp. (0.49%) and Paramphistomum spp. (0.24%). Among cestodes, tapeworms belonged to Anoplocephalids included Moniezia spp. (7.31%) and Avitellina sp. (0.49%) were detected. Meanwhile, coproculture revealed that the prevalence of nematodes infection was 13.41% (55/410) including nine species; Chabertia ovina , Ostertagia ostertagi , Haemonchus contortus , Trichostrongylus axei , T. colubriformis , Bunostomum sp., Cooperia oncophora , Cooperia curticei and Strongyloides spp. Conclusion In the present study, the prevalence of helminths was 21.95% and that of Eimeria spp. was 39.27%, which is considered a high infection rate. Accordingly Strict hygienic measures as well as regular deworming are highly recommended to avoid wide spread of both helminth and coccidial infections.
... Livestock farming remains the backbone of the rural economy in India [1][2][3]. It is recognized as the most important sub-sector of Indian agriculture and supports the basic needs and income of rural households in most parts of the country especially of northern hilly states [2,[4][5][6][7]. According to the 20th Livestock Census 2019 report, the total livestock population in India is 536.76 million, of which 95.78% are from rural areas of the country [8]. ...
... The higher prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode parasites during the rainy season might be associated with the appropriate molarities of various salts present in soils, which are a crucial factor for inducing ecdysis [34]. Considering the high morbidity and mortality associated with gastrointestinal parasites in livestock, different anthelmintic measures such as chemical drugs, phytochemicals-based herbal medicines, and nano-encapsulated anthelmintics should be evaluated on priority for an effective and sustainable management of gastrointestinal parasites [5,7,67]. ...
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Gastrointestinal nematode parasites and gastrointestinal protozoan parasites are considered detrimental to the livestock population and manifest production-limiting effects. Small and large ruminants (cattle, buffalo, goats, and sheep) are important components of the rural economy of northern India. However, the epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasites in this agro-climatic region has not been studied extensively. In this study, the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was determined in 163 animals, including cattle (n = 86), buffalo (n = 11), goats (n = 48), and sheep (n = 18) from 26 sampling sites by copro-parasitological analysis. The prevalence values of 94.47% and 66.87% were recorded for the nematodes and protozoa, respectively. The group-wise prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode parasites was 95.3%, 90.9%, 93.7%, and 94.4% in cattle, buffalo, goats, and sheep, respectively, whereas for gastrointestinal protozoan parasites, the respective values were 70.9%, 54.5%, 60.4%, and 72.2%. Copromicroscopy revealed ten genera of nematodes—Ascaris, Capillaria, Cooperia, Haemonchus, Nematodirus, Oesophagostomum, Ostertagia, Strongyloides, Trichostrongylus, Trichuris, and one protozoan genus—Eimeria. The prevalence of Trichostrongylus spp. was highest in buffaloes, whereas in cattle, Ascaris spp. were predominant. In both goats and sheep, Haemonchus contortus was found to be predominant. The highest prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded in the rainy season. These findings indicate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the ruminant population in this region and necessitate the implementation of preventive and control strategies for effective animal health management.
... The significantly higher prevalence of GI disorders found among young growers might be due to their relatively higher exposure to risk factors from grazing contaminated pastures [7]. The females' increased susceptibility to common pathogens is attributable to their genetic predisposition and varied hormonal status in different life stages, such as lactation and parturition [8]. ...
... The clinical signs observed in this study are in agreement with those reported by Verma et al. [7]. Enterotoxins, such as Shiga toxins, produced by bacterial pathogens, particularly enterotoxigenic E. coli, cause damage to the intestinal mucosa, malabsorption due to the presence of GI helminths, intestinal obstruction due to the heavy load of GI parasites, and release of toxins from parasites, which impair liver function due to reduced digestive efficiency and diarrhea [11]. ...
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Background and aim: Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in small ruminants limit production efficiency and productivity growth in the livestock sector, thereby directly preventing farmers from augmenting their income. This study aimed to provide detailed insight into the etiology, hematobiochemical parameters, and epidemiological risk factors of GI disorders in goats and to determine the pathology associated with the disorders. Materials and methods: Over the period of 2018-2019, 500 goats in and around Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, were screened for GI disorders based on clinical signs. Blood samples from the control (n=10) and treatment (n=25) groups were collected for both hematological and serum biochemical alterations. Fecal examinations (n=220) were conducted for parasitic, bacterial, and virological assessments. Detailed necropsy and histopathological evaluations were conducted on 27 goats. Results: The GI disorder prevalence rate and mortality rate among the 500 goats analyzed were 44.4% and 12.27%, respectively. Chi-square analysis showed a significantly higher occurrence of GI disorders among the goats that were between 6 months and 1.5 years old (58.72%), were of the Ganjam breed (45.49%), had a poor body condition (71.11%), and were housed with an earthen floor (55.22%). The most common etiological risk factor observed was parasitic infection (65.45%), followed by bacterial (18.18%) and mixed infection (9.54%). Blood analysis showed neutrophilia and eosinophilia in infected goats, in addition to anemia; significant decreases in total protein, globulin, albumin, and glucose levels; and significant increases in aspartate transaminase and alanine aminotransferase levels. The major histopathological findings were infiltration of mononuclear cells and desquamation of the intestinal and ruminal mucosa. Conclusion: Stakeholders should focus not only on parasitic infections and other important etiological risk factors for GI disorders in goats but also on proper farming management practices to help enhance the income of farmers. The hematobiochemical alterations and pathomorphological changes reported in this study can be used by field veterinarians as guidelines for clinical evaluation and disease severity assessment.
... Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, which permits any non-commercial use, sharing, distribution and et al. 2021;Hossain et al. 2021) and/or the post-weaning stress (Verma et al. 2018), together with weather conditions that benefit the survival of parasites (Ratanapob et al. 2012). However, the relative prevalence of Moniezia spp. ...
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This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasite infection in goats in Ayacucho, Peru. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 254 goats from four districts of Ayacucho: Ocaña (89), Colca (76), Pacaicasa (64), and Luricocha (25) during the dry season; recording the location, sex, and age of the animals. The fecal samples were analyzed using the flotation technique in salt and sugar solution, and modified McMaster egg counting techniques for eggs/oocysts (epg/opg) of gastrointestinal parasites. The associations between location, sex, and age with the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites were analyzed using the chi-square test. Fecal samples showed an overall parasite prevalence of 87.80%. The identified parasites were Eimeria spp. (86.22%), Strongyle type eggs (STE) (65.75%), Skrjabinema spp. (7.87%), Trichuris spp. (3.15%) and Moniezia spp. (3.15%). There was a significant association between the location and the presence of parasites (p < 0.05); where STE was more prevalent in the district of Colca (98.68%); Trichuris spp. in Pacaycasa (9.38%); Skrjabinema spp. (48.00%), Moniezia spp. (12.00%) and Eimeria spp. (100%) were more prevalent in Luricocha. Sex had a significant association with the prevalence of Eimeria spp., Skrjabinema spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05); while age had a significant association with parasitosis only for Trichuris spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05). The epg/opg values revealed a higher parasite burden in goats from Colca compared to the other locations (p < 0.05). There was also no statistical relationship between fecal egg/oocyst counts and sex or age, nevertheless, there were moderate and high parasitic burdens. The high prevalence of parasites such as nematodes, cestodes, and coccidia suggests the need to implement strategic control and prevention programs in free-grazing goats. Location and sex were the most relevant risk factors for parasitosis in Ayacucho, Peru.
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Gastrointestinal parasites pose a serious threat to sustainable small ruminant farming worldwide including Indian subcontinent and the control primarily relies on administration of anthelmintic drugs. A continuous surveillance regarding their distribution and efficacy of commonly used anthelmintics is essential for their effective control in a region. In the present study, faecal samples (n = 1962) were collected from goats of 17 districts of Punjab state, India and examined by qualitative and quantitative examination methodologies. An overall prevalence of 93.62% was recorded for gastrointestinal parasitism with strongyles being the most prevalent (88.99%), followed by coccidia (65.34%), Moniezia spp. (16.62%), Trichuris spp. (9.38%), Strongyloides spp. (7.65%) and trematodes (Fasciola spp. and amphistomes) being least prevalent (0.02%). The quantitative analysis revealed 48.05, 14.43 and 37.51% goats with low, moderate and heavy gastrointestinal nematode infection (GIN), respectively, while faecal culture examination revealed six genera of GINs as Haemonchus (75.94%) being the predominant, followed by Trichostrongylus (16.44%), Oesophagostomum (4.85%), Bunostomum (1.65%), Ostertagia (0.77%) and Cooperia (0.33%). The logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors viz. agroclimatic zones, season, sex and deworming status were significantly associated with prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. The status of efficacy against fenbendazole, levamisole and ivermectin were also analysed by in-vivo faecal egg count reduction test at 17 goat farms. The overall percent efficacy as mean ± SE (range) for fenbendazole, levamisole and ivermectin was estimated at 55.97 ± 4.78% (18.92–92.44%), 51.74 ± 4.77% (11.20-77.86%) and 62.63 ± 4.66% (32.41–98.63%), respectively. The results revealed resistance against fenbendazole, levamisole and ivermectin on 100%, 100% and 94.1% farms, respectively, whereas, in-vitro tests (egg hatch test and larval developmental assay) revealed resistance as 70.6%, 93.8% and 73.3%, respectively. The high prevalence of GINs in Punjab state can be correlated with the resistance recorded against all commonly used anthelmintics and warrants exploration of non-chemical mitigation strategies for effective control. The findings of the present study would be of immense help for the policy-framers/field veterinarians/extension worker etc. in formulation and implementation of effective control measures for worm management through judicious use of the anthelmintics.
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This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasite infection in goats in Ayacucho, Peru. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 254 goats from four districts of Ayacucho: Ocaña (84), Colca (76), Pacaicasa (64), and Luricocha (25) during the dry season; recording the location, sex, and age of the animals. The fecal samples were analyzed using the flotation technique in salt and sugar solution, and modified McMaster egg counting techniques for eggs/oocysts (epg/opg) of gastrointestinal parasites. The associations between location, sex, and age with the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites were analyzed using the chi-square test. Fecal samples showed an overall parasite prevalence of 87.80%. The identified parasites were Eimeria spp. (86.22%), Strongyle type eggs (STE) (65.75%), Skrjabinema sp. (7.87%), Trichuris sp. (3.15%) and Moniezia spp. (3.15%). There was no significant association between the location and the presence of parasites (p<0.05), however, there was a higher prevalence and parasite variety in Luricocha. Sex and age did not have a significant association with parasitosis (p>0.05), except in prevalences of Trichuris spp. and Moniezia spp. (p<0.05). The epg/opg values revealed a higher parasite burden in goats from Colca compared to the other locations (p<0.05). There was also no statistical relationship between fecal egg/oocyst counts and sex or age, nevertheless, there were moderate and high parasitic burdens. The high prevalence of parasites such as nematodes and Eimeria spp. the need to implement strategic control and prevention programs in goats, where location and sex were found to be the most relevant risk factors for parasitosis in Ayacucho, Peru.
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Gastrointestinal parasitism, particularly nematode infection, is a major health issue affecting goats worldwide, resulting in clinical diseases and productivity loss. Prevalent gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) affecting goats in South Africa are the Strongyloides papillosus, Eimeria spp., and Strongyles, especially the Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus spp. According to the issues discussed in this paper and by other authors, the prevalence and intensity of various GIPs vary with an animal's location, breed, age, sex, and season. Because GIPs easily develop resistance to chemical treatment, selecting and breeding genetically GIP-resistant animals would be a relatively simple and inexpensive strategy for reducing or eliminating the current reliance on chemotherapy. Potential phenotypic indicators for selecting GIP-resistant goats include parasitological, immunological, and pathological phenotypic markers. Synergistic use of these indicators should be encouraged for a more accurate simplified genotype selection of resistant animals. Genes with Mendelian inheritance, particularly those involved in immunoregulatory mechanisms, have been identified in goats. Exploring this knowledge base to develop cost-effective molecular tools that facilitate enhanced genetic improvement programs is a current challenge. Future statistical and biological models should investigate genetic variations within genomic regions and different candidate genes involved in immunoregulatory mechanisms, as well as the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms known to affect GIP infection levels.
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The coccidia and gastrointestinal nematode infections were monitored in 273 Jakhrana goats maintained at the Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Mathura, India to study the prevalence rate and to determine the effects of various environmental factors on intensity of infection. The animals were reared under semi intensive feeding system. The fecal samples were collected and examined for a period of 2 years. The data on faecal egg/oocystes count (FEC/FOC) were analyzed by least-squares analysis after suitable log transformation (Loge FEC/FOC + 100). The prevalence and intensity of infection were determined in animals according to their ages (0-3 month, >3-6 month, >6-12 month and >1 year), sex, year and season of sample collection. The pre-dominant coccidia oocysts were Eimeria ninakohlyakimovae, and the major gastrointestinal nematode species identified as Haemonchus contortus The overall prevalence rates for coccidial and gastrointestinal nematode infections manifested as singles or concurrent states were 42.86 and 39.19%, respectively. The coccidial oocysts was highest (92.31%) in >3-6 month aged kids followed by >6-12 month (75.51%) and >1 year of age (40.86%). Females had higher occurrence (49.86%) than males (45.20%) for coccidial infection. The prevalence rate of oocysts was highest in rainy season (54.55%) followed by summer (46.0%) and winter (37.0%) season. The gastrointestinal nematode prevalence was 33.33, 0.0, 57.14 and 41.00 percent in 0-3 month, >3-6 month, >6-12month and >1 year aged animals, respectively. Seasonal prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode infection was 28.74, 67.27 and 13.98 percent during summer, rainy and winter season, respectively. Concurrent infection with Eimeria and gastrointestinal nematodes were found in 17.22% of animals and restricted to animals of >6-12 month of age and above. The overall least-squares means for GOPG (oocysts/g of faeces) and GFEC (eggs/g of faeces) were 268.71 and 74.16, respectively. The effect of age, year and season of sampling had significant (P
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Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism in animals is one of the major problems in India causing emaciation, anaemia, oedema, weakness, diarrhoea and death. Present study was designed to generate epidemiological data on GI parasitism of goats of Madhya Pradesh, India. During 8 months study period, a total of 960 samples were collected and examined by sedimentation and floatation methods followed by egg per gram out of 960 samples, 907 (94.48 %) were positive for one or more gastrointestinal parasite, wherein coccidia was predominant (82.4 %) followed by strongyles (69.27 %), amphistomes (22.71 %), Strongyloides sp. (9.17 %), Trichuris sp. (3.85 %), Moniezia sp. (3.02 %), Schistosomes sp. (2.29 %) and Fasciola sp. (1.77 %). The seasonal incidence was found highest in monsoon (98.06 %) and lowest in winter (91.67 %). The incidence of gastrointestinal parasitism was found higher in kids (96.25 %) in comparison with adult goats (93.89 %).
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