Prevalence and determination of species distribution of in poultry from the Swabi district, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Coccidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus , is a significant concern in poultry farming, leading to substantial economic losses worldwide. In Pakistan, poultry is a major component of the agricultural sector, with both broiler and egg-laying chickens playing crucial roles in meeting the country's protein needs. Despite the importance of the poultry industry, there is limited data on prevalence and species distribution of in different types of chickens in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This study aims to estimate the prevalence and determine the distribution of species in broiler and egg-laying chickens in this region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine hundred fecal samples were collected from broiler (380) and egg-laying domestic chickens (520) in District Swabi, Pakistan. Microscopic analysis was used to identify parasites in all samples. After microscopic examination for positive identification, species were determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays.

RESULTS

Microscopic examination identified oocysts in 44.4% (400/900) of the samples. parasite infection significantly varied based on chicken type, age, and gender (p < 0.05). The study found that broiler chickens (52.63%, 235/450), young chickens (4-6 weeks) (55.5%, 285/500), and females (52.2%, 200/380) were more infected with spp. than egg-laying domestic chickens (38.5%, 200/520), adults (above 6 weeks) (28.8%), and males (36.7%, 165/450). PCR indicated a distribution rate of 42.5% (170/400) , 26.25% (105/400) , 20% (80/400) , and 11.25% (45/400) . None of , , or was found in the study.

CONCLUSION

This study underlines the essential requirement for targeted interventions due to the prevalence and predominance of among identified species. Future research should focus on refined sampling strategies and investigate the clinical significance of these parasites for effective disease management in the local poultry industry.