Helminthic Parasites of Domestic Fowls in Ikwuano, Abia State Nigeria

Abstract

A survey of intestinal parasites of domestic fowl was carried out in Ikwuano, Abia state, Nigeria during 2009. One hundred and eighty (180) gastrointestinal samples were examined microscopically using the direct smear and floatation technique. The result showed a high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection. Nematodes especially Ascaridia galli 47 (41.6%).and Capillaria caudinflata were most prevalent in the birds. Raillietina tetragona 11 (6.1%) was found to be the highest in occurrence among the cestodes encountered. No trematode was encountered among the birds, while Eimeria tenella 7 (3.9%) was the most prevalent protozoa. The average parasite burden per fowl was found to be 9.8 and majority of the species were restricted to small intestine. Twenty three (12.7%) cases of mixed infections were encountered. The study reveals that there was a high prevalence of intestinal parasites of domestic fowl in the study area. This calls for improved management and disease control to enhance their potential.

Keywords: Intestinal parasites, domestic fowl, parasite burden, predilection, mixed infection