Prevalence and intensity of parasitic infection in domestic ducks ( Anas platyrhynchas ) in Gilan Province, Northern Iran

This study was carried out to assess the levels of parasitic infection in domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchas) in Gilan Province, Northern Iran. During the summer of 2015, samples were collected randomly from local markets at different villages in Gilan Province. Blood samples were collected in EDTA-treated tubes, blood smear slides created, stained with giemsa and examined for the presence of blood protozoa. Ectoparasites samples were collected and identified according to Wall and Shearer (2001). To assess endoparasitic infection, the ducks ’ gastrointestinal tracts were removed and the various parts identified and opened. Parasites were collected, fixed in methanol, cleared with lactophenol and stained with borax carmine. Collected parasites were identified according to the descriptions given by Soulsby (1982) and Yamaguti (1958a,b). 56.6  % of ducks were infected with protozoan parasites, with the most prevalent of which beingTricomonas gallinae (prevalence 23.3  %, intensity 18 ± 2.5) followed byCryptosporidium bailey (prevalence 16.6  %, intensity 15.44 ± 16.5) andEimeria oocyst (prevalence 16.6  %, intensity 17.56 ± 12.5). Also found on the feathers and body surface were two species of lice (Menocanthus stranineus andLiperus squalidus), one species of tick (Argas persicus) and one of flea (Ctenocephalides canis). Prevalence and intensity of the parasite infestation varied from species to species:M. stranineus (prevalence 100  %, intensity 43.33 ± 17.5)...
Source: Comparative Clinical Pathology - Category: Pathology Source Type: research