Epidemiology of Gastro-intestinal Nematode Infections in Indigenous Chickens of Bangladesh

Abstract

Gastro-intestinal nematodes are common in chickens and have a negative impact on health and productivity, resulting in significant economic losses. Here, we examined the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) of 500 indigenous chickens (Gallus gallus domisticus) from November 2011 to November 2014 to determine the prevalence and epidemiological factors of common nematodes that affect GIT. In addition, we conducted a structured questionnaire survey to gather demographic information and poultry raising practices. We detected Ascaridia galli (56%, n=282) and Heterakis gallinarum (25%, n=126) from GIT of chickens using morphologic and morphometric analyses. The prevalence of A. galli (61%) and H. gallinarum (31%) was higher in hens kept in mud floor and when chickens of different age groups were reared together. The prevalence of A. galli was considerably (P0.01) higher (64%) during the rainy season, whereas seasons had no effect on H. gallinarum prevalence. Though there were no significant differences in prevalence, anthelmintic-treated chickens recovered a lower number of parasites (A. galli 38% and H. gallinarum 14%). On the other hand, in a group of litters changed within seven days, the lowest prevalence (A. galli 44% and H. gallinarum 25%) was detected, with essentially no difference in chickens reared in scavenging and semi-scavenging systems. Seasons, housing materials, raising practices, and litter changing frequency all had an impact on the prevalence of A. galli and H. gallinarum.Key word: Chicken, Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, epidemiology.