A sampling and estimation method for monitoring poultry red mite () infestation on caged-layer poultry farms.

BACKGROUND

The poultry red mite, , is a serious problem in the laying hen industry worldwide. Currently, the foremost control method for is the implementation of integrated pest management, the effective application of which necessitates a precise monitoring method.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to propose an accurate monitoring method with a reliable protocol for caged-layer poultry farms, and to suggest an objective classification for assessing infestation on caged-layer poultry farms according to the number of mites collected using the developed monitoring method.

METHODS

We compared the numbers of mites collected from corrugated cardboard traps, regarding with length of sampling periods, sampling sites on cage, and sampling positions in farm buildings. The study also compared the mean numbers of mites collected by the developed method with the infestation levels using by the conventional monitoring methods in 37 caged-layer farm buildings.

RESULTS

The statistical validation provided the suitable monitoring method that the traps were installed for 2 days on feed boxes at 27 sampling points which included three vertical levels across nine equally divided zones of farms. Using this monitoring method, the infestation level can be assessed objectively on caged-layer poultry farms. Moreover, the method is more sensitive than the conventional method in detecting very small populations of mites.

CONCLUSIONS

This method can be used to identify the initial stages of infestation in the caged-layer poultry farms, and therefore, will contribute to establishment of effective control strategies for this mite.