This study surveyed gastrointestinal parasites in 18 animal species at the Federal University of Agriculture
Abeokuta Zoological Park in Nigeria. Fecal samples collected from April to July 2014 were examined
microscopically and 7 parasite species were identified, with hookworm being the most prevalent at 22.2%. Of the
animals surveyed, 55.6% were infected with at least one parasite. Non-human primates had the highest infection
rates and intensities. The study recommends routine deworming and improved hygiene to control parasite
transmission between animals and humans at the zoo.
Global patterns of insect diiversity, distribution and evolutionary distinctnessAlison Specht
The presentation of the CESAB group ACTIAS at the 2016 french ecology conference in the FRB-CESAB session "Using a treasury of knowledge to tackle complex ecological questions." Presenter: Carlos Lopez-Vaamonde
Deep Learning for Large Scale Biodiversity MonitoringDavid J. Klein
Deep Learning for Large Scale Biodiversity Monitoring
David J. Klein, Conservation Metrics, Inc.
Strata+Hadoop World 2015
Based on the paper: http://bit.ly/1GEyWcR
The roles of botanic gardens in biodiversity conservationMarco Pautasso
Biodiversity conservation in botanic gardens, arboreta, living collections, biogeography, natural history, species richness, sustainable energy, National Botanic Garden of Wales, University of Cambridge Botanic Garden, Species richness as a function of year of establishment
RISK AND BENEFITS OF WILDLIFE TRANSLOCATIONnikeshkathayat
Wildlife translocations have historically assisted in establishing or re-establishing species in areas of extinction and while at the same time may also poses risks to the existing population at the recipient site.
Global patterns of insect diiversity, distribution and evolutionary distinctnessAlison Specht
The presentation of the CESAB group ACTIAS at the 2016 french ecology conference in the FRB-CESAB session "Using a treasury of knowledge to tackle complex ecological questions." Presenter: Carlos Lopez-Vaamonde
Deep Learning for Large Scale Biodiversity MonitoringDavid J. Klein
Deep Learning for Large Scale Biodiversity Monitoring
David J. Klein, Conservation Metrics, Inc.
Strata+Hadoop World 2015
Based on the paper: http://bit.ly/1GEyWcR
The roles of botanic gardens in biodiversity conservationMarco Pautasso
Biodiversity conservation in botanic gardens, arboreta, living collections, biogeography, natural history, species richness, sustainable energy, National Botanic Garden of Wales, University of Cambridge Botanic Garden, Species richness as a function of year of establishment
RISK AND BENEFITS OF WILDLIFE TRANSLOCATIONnikeshkathayat
Wildlife translocations have historically assisted in establishing or re-establishing species in areas of extinction and while at the same time may also poses risks to the existing population at the recipient site.
Studies on Diversity and Seasonal Variations in Ichthyofauna of Chandrasarova...ijtsrd
The present study deals with ichthyofaunal diversity of Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar, Rajasthan. Total 23 species from 6 orders, 10 families and 19 genera were recorded during the present study. The range of water parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen alkalinity and hardness were recorded and found suitable for fish production. Dominant family Cyprinidae with 12 species and 08 genera followed by Bagridae with 03 species 02 genera and other all families Claridea, Heteropneustidae, Cichilidae, Channidae, Gobiidae, Belonidae, Mastacembelidae, Poecilidae and Anguilidae contributed single species with single genera. Regarding conservation status out of 23 fish species 21 species least concern and 2 species near threaten. During month of December post monsoon highest fish diversity was found. Seasonal diversity indices such as Shannon Wiener species diversity, Pielou’s evenness, Margalef’s species richness, were calculated based on the abundance of fish species to access the ecosystem health of Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar. These studies will be help for the maintenance and regulation of Ichthyofauna and other aquatic ecosystem of the Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar, Rajasthan Arjumand Qureshi "Studies on Diversity and Seasonal Variations in Ichthyofauna of Chandrasarovar Pond of Jhalawar (Rajasthan)" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-4 , June 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compapers/ijtsrd43619.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.combiological-science/zoology/43619/studies-on-diversity-and-seasonal-variations-in-ichthyofauna-of-chandrasarovar-pond-of-jhalawar-rajasthan/arjumand-qureshi
Changes in benthic communities in the Middle Atlas springs (Morocco) and thei...Innspub Net
The sources of the Moroccan Middle Atlas suffer not only the effects of anthropogenic pressures, but also those of climate change whose impact is difficult to predict. Our goal is to better understand the succession of processions fauna of the upper Guigou. It is a compendium comparative between the benthic fauna collected towards the end of the years 70 (1979) in the sources Arbalou Abrchane, Tit Zil and the Wadi Guigou. As well as those harvested in the same sites, thirty-four years after. This revealed a significant drop in dissolved oxygen concentration decreased from 7.4 (mg/l) in 1979 to 2.52 (mg/l) in 2015. We have also raised an increase in the workload in chlorides and major elements. Benthic fauna, a significant change in population since 1979, with the appearance and installation of more than a dozen of taxa were identified (Simulium pseudoquinum, Gammarus gauthieri, Phagocata sp., Dugesia gonocephala). Some of these species have become invasive, such as Amphipod crustaceans Gammarus gauthieri, either very abundant as Simulium pseudoquinum. We note the effect “medium” for the direct selection of the species. Other indirect effects due to the reduction of the three dimensional biogenic structures would have limited recognizably State niches by polluo-sensitive species (Ephemeroptera, Heteroptera, Coleoptera and Trichoptera) and could contribute to the total disappearance of all order plecoptera in favour of a dominance of the polluo-tolerant species (Oligochaetes). Over a period of 35 years, there is a deterioration of the health of the aquatic ecosystem studied, a State of art reflected by a decline of the benthic community that lives there.
Efficiency of bio fertilizers and compost on soil arthropod diversity and spe...Salah Hussein
The effect of three types of bio fertilizers ( N, P and K), plant and animal compost on soil arthropod diversity and species abundance were studied in organic tomato field. Nitrogen fixation bacteria increased the insects population with 16.26%, and the total population of soil arthropods with 7.3% and caused reduction % in mites and other arthropods population with 66.53 and 100 % reduction. Fertilization with potassium soluble bacteria (K) increased the population of insects, mites, and the total population of soil arthropods systemic groups with 175, 1353.8 and 741.23 % respectively. Similar results were achieved in the treatments with phosphorous soluble bacteria (P)
The treatments with animal compost increased all soil arthropods systemic groups, insects, mites and the total population of soil arthropods systemic groups gave 486.48, 356.36 and 347% increasing percentages compared with pretreatment. While this treatment caused reduction in the other soil arthropods with 66.6%.
The two types of compost increased both the terrestrial soil arthropods systemic groups, which collected by pitfall traps , and the superficial soil arthropods systemic groups that found in the upper surface layer, until (30cm depth), which collected by Berlese funnel methods, with percentage arranged from 47% to 61% in animal compost.
Generally steep decline occurred in other arthropods in tomato organic cultivated after application of different bio-fertilizers and increased in insect population, mites and total population of soil arthropods collected with pitfall traps and Berlese funnel.
Keywords : (organic tomato system, soil arthropods, agro ecosystem, Diversity and equitability, biofertilizers, plant and animal compost).
Article 'Response of moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) to livestock grazing in Mongolian rangelands' by Khishigdelger Enkhtura, Martin Pfeiffera, Ariuntsetseg Lkhagvaa, Bazartseren Boldgiva
It's no secret that environmental degradation has been shown to have damaged people's health, often fatally, in many specific cases.
Now, however, world-leading research at the University of Adelaide has linked the two on a staggering global scale.
Using data from over 100 countries, Professor Corey Bradshaw has examined the relationships between key indicators of human health and environmental quality and discovered a clear correlation, with dire implications.
As only one example, his findings indicate just a 10% overall reduction in water quality would raise infant deaths by many millions per year.
It's vital information for people and planet. And in this important presentation Professor Bradshaw will reveal the full story.
Studies on Diversity and Seasonal Variations in Ichthyofauna of Chandrasarova...ijtsrd
The present study deals with ichthyofaunal diversity of Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar, Rajasthan. Total 23 species from 6 orders, 10 families and 19 genera were recorded during the present study. The range of water parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen alkalinity and hardness were recorded and found suitable for fish production. Dominant family Cyprinidae with 12 species and 08 genera followed by Bagridae with 03 species 02 genera and other all families Claridea, Heteropneustidae, Cichilidae, Channidae, Gobiidae, Belonidae, Mastacembelidae, Poecilidae and Anguilidae contributed single species with single genera. Regarding conservation status out of 23 fish species 21 species least concern and 2 species near threaten. During month of December post monsoon highest fish diversity was found. Seasonal diversity indices such as Shannon Wiener species diversity, Pielou’s evenness, Margalef’s species richness, were calculated based on the abundance of fish species to access the ecosystem health of Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar. These studies will be help for the maintenance and regulation of Ichthyofauna and other aquatic ecosystem of the Chandrasarovar pond of Jhalawar, Rajasthan Arjumand Qureshi "Studies on Diversity and Seasonal Variations in Ichthyofauna of Chandrasarovar Pond of Jhalawar (Rajasthan)" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-4 , June 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compapers/ijtsrd43619.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.combiological-science/zoology/43619/studies-on-diversity-and-seasonal-variations-in-ichthyofauna-of-chandrasarovar-pond-of-jhalawar-rajasthan/arjumand-qureshi
Changes in benthic communities in the Middle Atlas springs (Morocco) and thei...Innspub Net
The sources of the Moroccan Middle Atlas suffer not only the effects of anthropogenic pressures, but also those of climate change whose impact is difficult to predict. Our goal is to better understand the succession of processions fauna of the upper Guigou. It is a compendium comparative between the benthic fauna collected towards the end of the years 70 (1979) in the sources Arbalou Abrchane, Tit Zil and the Wadi Guigou. As well as those harvested in the same sites, thirty-four years after. This revealed a significant drop in dissolved oxygen concentration decreased from 7.4 (mg/l) in 1979 to 2.52 (mg/l) in 2015. We have also raised an increase in the workload in chlorides and major elements. Benthic fauna, a significant change in population since 1979, with the appearance and installation of more than a dozen of taxa were identified (Simulium pseudoquinum, Gammarus gauthieri, Phagocata sp., Dugesia gonocephala). Some of these species have become invasive, such as Amphipod crustaceans Gammarus gauthieri, either very abundant as Simulium pseudoquinum. We note the effect “medium” for the direct selection of the species. Other indirect effects due to the reduction of the three dimensional biogenic structures would have limited recognizably State niches by polluo-sensitive species (Ephemeroptera, Heteroptera, Coleoptera and Trichoptera) and could contribute to the total disappearance of all order plecoptera in favour of a dominance of the polluo-tolerant species (Oligochaetes). Over a period of 35 years, there is a deterioration of the health of the aquatic ecosystem studied, a State of art reflected by a decline of the benthic community that lives there.
Efficiency of bio fertilizers and compost on soil arthropod diversity and spe...Salah Hussein
The effect of three types of bio fertilizers ( N, P and K), plant and animal compost on soil arthropod diversity and species abundance were studied in organic tomato field. Nitrogen fixation bacteria increased the insects population with 16.26%, and the total population of soil arthropods with 7.3% and caused reduction % in mites and other arthropods population with 66.53 and 100 % reduction. Fertilization with potassium soluble bacteria (K) increased the population of insects, mites, and the total population of soil arthropods systemic groups with 175, 1353.8 and 741.23 % respectively. Similar results were achieved in the treatments with phosphorous soluble bacteria (P)
The treatments with animal compost increased all soil arthropods systemic groups, insects, mites and the total population of soil arthropods systemic groups gave 486.48, 356.36 and 347% increasing percentages compared with pretreatment. While this treatment caused reduction in the other soil arthropods with 66.6%.
The two types of compost increased both the terrestrial soil arthropods systemic groups, which collected by pitfall traps , and the superficial soil arthropods systemic groups that found in the upper surface layer, until (30cm depth), which collected by Berlese funnel methods, with percentage arranged from 47% to 61% in animal compost.
Generally steep decline occurred in other arthropods in tomato organic cultivated after application of different bio-fertilizers and increased in insect population, mites and total population of soil arthropods collected with pitfall traps and Berlese funnel.
Keywords : (organic tomato system, soil arthropods, agro ecosystem, Diversity and equitability, biofertilizers, plant and animal compost).
Article 'Response of moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) to livestock grazing in Mongolian rangelands' by Khishigdelger Enkhtura, Martin Pfeiffera, Ariuntsetseg Lkhagvaa, Bazartseren Boldgiva
It's no secret that environmental degradation has been shown to have damaged people's health, often fatally, in many specific cases.
Now, however, world-leading research at the University of Adelaide has linked the two on a staggering global scale.
Using data from over 100 countries, Professor Corey Bradshaw has examined the relationships between key indicators of human health and environmental quality and discovered a clear correlation, with dire implications.
As only one example, his findings indicate just a 10% overall reduction in water quality would raise infant deaths by many millions per year.
It's vital information for people and planet. And in this important presentation Professor Bradshaw will reveal the full story.
Dis presentation is fr both a novice nd a master. Dis presentation tells u abt wat is In Situ nd Ex Situ Conservation, their Merits nd Demerits in a minimal of 5 slides........ Have a look.
Abstract
Study was conducted to record prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of cat. A total of 100 fecal samples from cat (50 from
male and 50 from female) were collected and examined for the presence of GIT parasites. Samples were collected and
transported for the laboratory diagnosis. Animal data such as age, sex, and breed were recorded. Results of the present study
revealed that 24% cats found positive for the gastrointestinal parasites. The percentage of infection was found higher in female
cats (28%) than males (20%). The prevalence in adults and kitten was recorded as 21.42% and 30% respectively. Dipylidium
caninum was found more prevalent with the infection rate of 9% followed by Toxocara cati, Aeluroslonglun obstrusus, Taenia
taeniaeformis and Paragonimus kellikotti with the infection rate of 5, 5, 3 and 2% respectively.
Key words: Cat, Felus catus, GIT parasites, Prevalence
Study of virulence genes in vancomycin resistant Enterococci (vre) from anima...Innspub Net
With Enterococcus species in the leading cause of nosocomial infections and resistance to an array of antibiotics, this study focused to determine the frequency and distribution of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci, the presence of virulence genes and to determine the relative nucleotide sequence relatedness among isolates using 16S rRNA sequence. A random sampling of 120 fecal samples of cattle, poultry, and piggery, and human clinical isolates was analyzed. Standard bacteriological methods were employed in the isolation and characterization of isolates and the disk diffusion method was used in determining their antibiotic resistance profiles. Results showed Enterococcus species in cattle at 100%, followed by clinical isolates at 80%. Vancomycin resistance was observed at high rates in Enterococcus species from human clinical isolates and cattle isolates at 90% and 80% respectively. Multiple antibiotic-resistant isolates yielded twelve resistance profiles and 16S rDNA sequences identified E. faecalis, E. durans, E. mundtii, and Enterococcus sp. Isolates from cattle samples were the most probable source of clinical isolates at 78% homology of conserved regions with the clinical isolates. Virulence determinant genes Asa1 was recorded at66.6%, Cyl at 16.6% and GelE at 8.3% among the isolates. This study established farm animals as possible reservoirs of VRE isolates to man. Hence, healthy and professional practices among animal farmers with antibiotic usage, as well as hygienic and preventive measures among hospital workers are here recommended.
Studies on Prevalence of Ixodid Ticks Infesting Cattle and Their Control by P...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences(IOSR-JPBS) is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal that provides rapid publication (within a month) of articles in all areas of Pharmacy and Biological Science. The journal welcomes publications of high quality papers on theoretical developments and practical applications in Pharmacy and Biological Science. Original research papers, state-of-the-art reviews, and high quality technical notes are invited for publications.
Study of virulence genes in vancomycin resistant Enterococci (vre) from anima...Innspub Net
With Enterococcus species in the leading cause of nosocomial infections and resistance to an array of antibiotics, this study focused to determine the frequency and distribution of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci, the presence of virulence genes and to determine the relative nucleotide sequence relatedness among isolates using 16S rRNA sequence. A random sampling of 120 fecal samples of cattle, poultry, and piggery, and human clinical isolates was analyzed. Standard bacteriological methods were employed in the isolation and characterization of isolates and the disk diffusion method was used in determining their antibiotic resistance profiles. Results showed Enterococcus species in cattle at 100%, followed by clinical isolates at 80%. Vancomycin resistance was observed at high rates in Enterococcus species from human clinical isolates and cattle isolates at 90% and 80% respectively. Multiple antibiotic-resistant isolates yielded twelve resistance profiles and 16S rDNA sequences identified E. faecalis, E. durans, E. mundtii, and Enterococcus sp. Isolates from cattle samples were the most probable source of clinical isolates at 78% homology of conserved regions with the clinical isolates. Virulence determinant genes Asa1 was recorded at66.6%, Cyl at 16.6% and GelE at 8.3% among the isolates. This study established farm animals as possible reservoirs of VRE isolates to man. Hence, healthy and professional practices among animal farmers with antibiotic usage, as well as hygienic and preventive measures among hospital workers are here recommended.
In nature, wild animals live on large area and have consequently, a low genetic resistance against parasitic infections because of hoe exposure. When herds of these wild animals are kept in captivity in Zoological Gardens, the problem of parasite infection can aggravate and pose a serious threat to endangered species, occasionally causing sudden and unexpected local declines in abundance; unfortunately, there have been few detailed and comprehensive studies on the common parasitic infections, prevalence of the parasitic infections in the primates and the Health care management of the captive primates. The focus of the research work is on investigation of parasitic infection among primates in selected Zoological Gardens in Nigeria the researcher has the following objectives, The researcher adopted experimental method sample of fresh feaces were collected differently for 5 days and was examined at two different laboratory, that Ibadan and Jos. The Ibadan Zoological Garden twenty seven species of primates were examined, with only six infested with Trichuris Trichuria parasite; common in chimpanzee, mona monkey, Tantalus and white throated. In Jos Plateau Zoological Garden, twenty-four species of primates were examined only thirteen primates were infested with Trichuris Trichuria, F buskii, Eimeria, Ascaris Lumbricoides, ¬S. mansoni, Hetrophyes, Those infested, are Red patas, softy mongabey, Baboon, Mona Monkey, Tantalus, and Chimpanzee. Kano Zoological Garden, thirty species of primates were examined, only eleven were infested with Ascaris Lumbricoides, Eimeria, Trichuris Trichuria, Fasciola those infested are Baboon, Chimpanzee, Mona Monkey, Patas, Tantalus Monkeys. All the above examination of the faecal sample material, a direct wet smear was used to reveal the parasites; examined with a how power objective (10x).
The Science of Zoology
Zoology As Part of Biology
Branches of Zoology
Branches of Zoology related to the medical science
Importance in daily life
The Importance of Animals in Biomedical Research
Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Staphylococcus aureus, and their nasa...Open Access Research Paper
The frequency of Staphylococcus aureus carriage among healthy food handlers at the students’ cafeteria at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri Nigeria was investigated. Nasal and throat swab samples were obtained from 54 food handlers, and analysed using standard microbiological methods. A total of 28 (51.9%) food handlers were positive for S. aureus. Twenty one of the food handlers (38.9%) harbor S. aureus in their nostrils, 11 (20.4%) in their throat, while 6(11.1%) harbor it in both their nostrils and throats. The exclusive colonization of the throat (20.4%) of the studied food handlers, demonstrated the importance of the throat as a site of colonization for S. aureus. Antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates shows that all the isolated S. aureus were susceptible to nitrofurantoin and cefuroxime, but resistant to penicillin, chloramphenicol, cotrimazole. The isolates were also 25%, 28.6% and 35.7% susceptible to ampicillin, amoxycillin and erythromycin, respectively. This study has further shown the need for routine regular screening of food handlers for both nasal and throat carriage of S. aureus so as to detect early and treat carriers in order to protect the general public from staphylococcal food poisoning. The high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in S. aureus isolated from the healthy food handlers is of great public health concern, as it shows a growing problem of antimicrobial resistance in the community. This study thus, recommends an urgent formulation of a national policy on antibiotics by the Nigerian government for regulation and management of antibiotics use.
Microbiological Investigations of Selected Flies of Public Health Importance ...iosrjce
Bacteria associated with flies of public health importance in Nigeria are not well known and their
ecology is also not well understood. We aim to determine the bacteria associated with flies of waste dump site.
Three flies of public health significance were collected from a waste dump site of the Rivers State University of
Science and Technology, Port Harcourt. The three dipterous flies were Luciliasericata, Chrysomyasp and
Musca domestica..The three flies were all of medical importance.The microbial load on three species of flies
was investigated using standard plate count methods. The fly samples were collected from the Post Graduate
Entomology Laboratory was cultured to isolate and identify the microbes associated with them. The samples
were analyzed for total heterotrophic bacteria and fungi counts. The study revealed high heterotrophic bacteria
and fungi counts in all three species of the flies used, with Musca domestica having the highest count of 2.9 X
109Cfu/gram and Chrysomyasp with the least count of 3.4 x 10 5Cfu/g and fungi counts ranged from 3.1 X
103Cfu/g to 2.9 X 105Cfu/g. The bacteria isolated from these samples includes: Escherichia coli,
Pseudomonassp,, Bacillussp, Enterobactersp, Staphylococcussp,Salmonellasp, Proteussp, and Klebsiellasp,
while the fungi species isolated includes: Penicilliumsp,
Aspergillussp,Rhizopussp,Cladosporiumsp,Aspergillusflavus, Aspergillusniger, Fusariumsp and Trichoderma
sp.
A preliminary survey of gastrointestinal parasites of animals in
1. Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol.5, No.11, 2015
195
A Preliminary Survey of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Animals in
Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta Zoological Park,
Ogun State, Nigeria
Adegbulu, Yetunde, Temilade Mogaji, Hammed Oladeji Oluwole, Akinola Stephen
Alabi, Oladimeji Michael Adeniran, Adebiyi Abdulhakeem*
Ekpo Uwem Friday
Spatial Parasitology and HealthGIS Unit, Department of Pure and Applied Zoology, Federal University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta
*Corresponding author: niranbiyi@gmail.com
Abstract
Parasitic infections including gastrointestinal helminths are major cause of wildlife health complications and
death. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the newly established Federal University of Agriculture,
Abeokuta Zoological garden to examine occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among the captive
animals in the park. Faecal samples were collected weekly from cages of 18 animals between April and July,
2014. The faecal samples were processed using Sodium acetate-Acetic acid-Formalin ether concentration
method and examined for intestinal parasites ova or cysts under the microscope. Types of intestinal parasites
found were recorded and the weekly egg count recorded and analysed to compute intensity of infection.
Descriptive statistics was used to analyse important variables. Seven species of gastrointestinal parasites that
include hookworm, Trichuris spp, Ascaris spp, Enterobius spp, Trichostrongylus spp, Entamoeba spp, and
Strongyloides spp were identified from microscopic examination. Of the examined animals, 55.6% were
infected with at least a parasite with hookworm the most prevalent with 22.2% of the animals infected. The
Non-human primates were the most infected among the animals surveyed in which Cercopithecus mona (Mona
monkey) carried the highest infection. Routine screening and deworming of captive animals should be
incorporated into animal health management practices in this zoological garden.
Keywords: zoological garden, gastrointestinal parasites, non-human primates
Introduction:
Zoological garden is an ex-situ form of conservation where animals are kept in cages or enclosures for exhibition.
Zoological gardens exhibit wild animals for aesthetic, educational or research and conservation purposes [1].
This act of keeping wildlife close to humans in captivity has gained approval and patronage of the populace over
years.
Study of captive animal diseases is of continued veterinary importance and gastrointestinal helminths
have been implicated in the cause of important diseases of animals and humans [2]. Gastrointestinal helminth
and other parasitic infections are the major cause of wildlife health complications and death [3].
Despite the enormous evidence on the prevalence and epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasites
among humans [4-7], little attention have been placed on the gastrointestinal parasites of wild animals, most
especially the captive ones. However, recent evidences have revealed that gastrointestinal parasites of wild
animals in captivity are similar to that of humans [3, 8-11]. The prevalence of these parasitic infections among
captive animals and animals in the wild have also been reported to be similar to that of human [12-16].
The Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta Zoological garden is newly established and with
various evidences of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among different species of animals reported outside
Nigeria [12, 14, 17-22] and establishment of infection with intestinal parasites among avian species in Nigeria
[3], there is the need for a preliminary study to investigate occurrence and present a profile of gastrointestinal
parasite of captive animals in the zoological garden. This will provide valuable information to the zoological
garden management that will enhance the development of disease control and surveillance programs aimed at
improving the health of the zoo animals.
Materials and Methods:
Study area: The study was carried out at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta zoological garden located
between (7.221910
N, 3.444370
E), Odeda Local Government, Ogun state, South-West, Nigeria (Figure 1). This
zoological garden was established in 2008 but commenced full operation in 2010 and it is the only Zoological
garden in Ogun state. The study was carried out between April and July 2014
Ethical considerations: The study was approved by the Ethics committee of the Federal University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Animals were handled according to standard practices.
Study Animals: The study involved 3 classes (mammals, aves and reptiles) and 18 different species of animals
available in the zoological garden. The animals include: Senegal parrot, Ostrich, Grey parrot, Gazelle, Jackal,
2. Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3208 (Paper) ISSN 2225-093X (Online)
Vol.5, No.11, 2015
196
Monitor lizard, White geese, Tortoise, Parakeet, Crowned crane, Baboon, Patas monkey, Vervet monkey, Mona
monkey, Mallard duck, Spotted hyena Porcupine and Speckled pigeon.
Sample collection: Freshly voided early morning faecal samples of the animals were collected with the
assistance of the zoo keepers before routine cleaning of cages in the zoo. Sample bottles were labeled with the
name of the animal in cages were it was taken. Samples collected were then immediately preserved with
Sodium-acetate acetic acid formalin solution (SAF) before taken to the laboratory for analysis. All samples
collected were analysed within 48 hours of collection.
Sample examination: Faecal samples were processed using Sodium acetate-Acetic acid-Formalin ether
concentration method as described by Endriss et al. (2005) and examined for the presence of parasites ova or
cyst under the microscope [9].
Data analysis: Laboratory data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0.
Descriptive statistics that include frequency and means were used for the analysis.
Results:
Of the total 18 species of captive animals surveyed in this study, 8(44.4%) were mammals, 8(44.4%) aves and
2(11.1%) were reptiles. Table 1 shows the classification of the surveyed animals.
A total of 10(55.6%) of the different types of animals present in the zoo were positive for
gastrointestinal parasitic infections. Seven different parasites were observed among the examined animals
(Figure 2). Hookworm is the most prevalent helminth infection observed infecting 4 (22.2%) of the surveyed
animal species. Trichuris spp. was observed in 3(16.7%) of the captive animals studied. Table 2 shows the
prevalence of gastrointestinal infection observed in the studied animals.
Highest prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infection was observed among the mammals of which
the non-human primates (NHP) are the major culprit habouring hookworms, Trichuris spp and Strongyloides spp.
(Table 3).
Highest mean intensity of hookworm infection as found in repeated samples collected over 9 weeks
was found in the Mona monkey with an average intensity of 253epg (Table 4). This was followed by baboon
(113 epg) and the least intensity of hookworm infection was found in the vervet monkey with an average less
than 50epg. Patas monkey was the most infected with T. trichiura followed by Mona monkey (table 4). A very
low intensity of Trichostongylus spp was found in the hyena.
Moderate intensity of Ascaris spp infection was found in the ostrich. The African grey parrot was the
most infected with Entamoeba spp followed by the rose ringed parakeet.
Discussion:
Helminthiasis, most especially infection with soil transmitted helminthes (STH), which ova accumulate in the
environment, particularly in open soil enclosures, which cannot be easily disinfected constitute a major and big
problem to wild animals in captivity[24] (Elena, 2011). This could explain the relatively high prevalence of 55.6%
of infection observed in the present study, most of which are STH infections. The survival of these helminthes in
the soil is also enhanced by favourable climatic factors. Other parasites require an intermediate host and are less
likely to accumulate in a captive environment, because their intermediate host might not occur in the enclosure
[25]. Protozoan infection observed in this study was only among the avian species which contrast the study of
[26] that reported a higher protozoan infection among the NHP than other species of captive animals examined.
The source of acquisition and methods of introduction of animals into newly established zoological
gardens is of key importance to the health of the captive animals afterwards [11].
Out of the 18 species of captive animals examined in this study, 10 species were infected with at least
one type of intestinal helminths. Intestinal helminths are responsible for most diseases of veterinary importance,
because they do not need intermediate host [27].
However, since the site and period of infection cannot be ascertained, as majority of the animals were
sourced from other zoological gardens, markets and hunters, infection could have been introduced into the
zoological garden from point of purchase or source. Infection observed in these animals however put the
handlers and zoo keeper as great risk of contacting zoonotic diseases as the animals can serve as reservoir host
for some of these parasites [28].
Also, of all the animal species examined, the NHP were the most infected and this agrees with the
findings elsewhere [8]. The likelihood of zookeepers and visitors as a potential risk source of constant
reinfection of some of the discovered intestinal helminthes cannot be ignored [8][28]. Since NHP are closer to
humans and create the most fascinating environment in a zoological garden, zookeepers and visitors indirectly
and unconsciously introduce contaminated foods to these animals in return for their wonderful display when
food substances are dropped on the floor or thrown at the animal. These animals can pick such food from the
grounds and could have been the reason why infection was higher in this group of animal, compared to others.
Furthermore, the foods given to the NHP were always served on the ground which could also be a source of re-
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infection even after treatment.
Parasitic infections in other studied animal species, for instance the Tortoise with Enterobius spp and
Ostrich with Ascaris spp also conforms to the findings of [28] and [10]. Though Ascaris spp were the most
predominant nematode of birds, findings of [3] reported the presence of other parasites like Capillaria spp and
Strongyloides spp in the Ostrich. The discordance in these findings compared to that of [3] might be due to the
differences in the methodology employed in the examination of stool samples and the treatment history of the
captive animals, although the methodology employed in this study does not allow identification of parasites to
species level.
Generally, the poor environmental hygiene observed in the zoological garden might contribute to the
development and transmission of intestinal helminth infections. Also the personal hygiene attitudes and practices
of zookeepers responsible for feeding captive animals have been implicated in continued transmission of
intestinal helminth infections [8]. Contaminated cooking utensils and infected zookeepers responsible for feeding
the animals might contaminate animal feeds. The introduction of foods to animals with contaminated hands and
dirty finger nails can also be implicated in the transmission of intestinal helminths.
The presence of gastro intestinal helminth in captive animals can also be explained by husbandry,
housing, feeding, and inconsistency in treatment programme or the existence of a favourable climatic condition
[29]. Though the treatment programme of captive animals in the studied zoological garden was consistent, re-
infection might occur through contaminated environment, feeding habits and hygiene attitude and practices of
the zookeepers and visitors.
Gastrointestinal parasitic infection is a burden in this zoological garden. Continuous regular
deworming of the animals, quarantine services for newly acquired animals and improved hygiene practices
should be incorporated into the zoological garden animal health management practices. Also, policy barring
visitors from feeding the animals into the zoo should be enforced so as to prevent visitors from infecting the
animals and thus improve the health of the captive animals.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge the management and zoo keepers of FUNAAB Zoological Garden for granting us the
permission to use and assisting in the collection of samples in the zoological garden for the study.
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Figure 1: Map of Ogun State showing study location
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(a) (b)
(c) (d)
(e) (f)
Figure 2 : Ova of parasites observed in faecal samples of examined zoological garden animals. (a) Trichuris
trichiura (b) Hookworm (c) Ascaris spp (d) Trichostrongylus spp (e) Entamoeba spp (f) Enterobius spp
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