This document summarizes a study on the ectoparasites and haemoparasites of grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus) reared under captive conditions. Ten grasscutters were examined for ectoparasites by brushing their fur and for haemoparasites through blood smear analysis. Three ectoparasite species were identified: Ixodes aulacodi, Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks and Xenopsylla cheopis fleas. Ixodes aulacodi had the highest prevalence at 50%. Two haemoparasite species were found: Plasmodium and Trypanosoma, each at 10% prevalence. The anterior body regions of
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).
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.
Molecular Identification of Bulinus Species in Ogun State, South-West Nigeria...AI Publications
The study considers the distribution of a small sample of 100 Bulinus snails, across 8 localities within Ogun State, Nigerian. Snails were identified using a molecular method of fragment and restriction profiles obtained from ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (its) amplicons. The results showed that the majority of Bulinus samples tested belonged to the species Bulinustruncatus while only one was Bulinusglobosus. The use of Rsa1 restriction endonuclease to cleave the ribosomal its of Bulinus, as a method of species identification, was adopted for the majority of samples, this being a quicker and cheaper method better suited to small laboratory environments. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the schistosome Dra1 repeat within each of the collected Bulinus samples was employed to determine the extent and distribution of infected snails within the sample areas. Successful amplification of the Dra1 repeat demonstrated that 23% of snails were infected with schistosome
Mobile phone has been source of microorganisms that cause diseases of public health concerns. In a study, one-fi fth of cellular phones examined were found to harbor pathogenic bacteria indicating that these devices may serve as vehicles of transmission. Swab samples were collected aseptically from the phones of different handlers like motor bike riders, food vendors, meat sellers and nursing mothers. Bacteria isolation and identifi cation were carried out using pour plating technique with distinctive morphological and biochemical characteristics.The pathogenicity of the bacterial isolates was investigated through oral inoculation into albino rats. Eighty-eight (88) bacteria were isolated and selected based on their resistance to antibiotics for pathological study. Loss in weight was observed in some albino rat. Along with reduction in the packed cell volume, hemoglobin but raised white blood cell. Animal inoculated with Bacillus cereus showed meningitis like symptom after the first week of inoculation. Also, there were short and stunted villi; low crystal depth with necrotic
debris in the lumen. It has been observed that cell phones may harbor pathogenic bacteria and can subsequently plays role as fomite in the disease transmission. Therefore, the need to educate community phone handlers in the rural area becomes imperative.
Succession of Arthropods on White Rat Carcasses in Ile Ife, Southwestern Nigeriaijtsrd
The forensic information provided by decomposition of small carcasses often goes unnoticed, even in advanced economies, due to frequent neglect. This paper reports the succession pattern of arthropod species that associated with carcasses of white rat, Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout Rodentia Muridae , in Ile Ife, southwestern Nigeria. Four bushy sites were chosen for the study and nine rat carcasses were placed at each site once a season for two seasons. The carcasses were monitored daily until the process of decay was over. The visiting and colonizing invertebrates were collected daily and identified. Immatures were also collected and reared in the laboratory till adult emergence for easy identification. The carcasses went through five stages of decay and the arthropods arrived in the order Diptera early fresh stage , Hymenoptera late fresh stage , Coleoptera and Dermaptera active decay stage , and Araneae and Oribatida advanced decay stage . Dipteran flies were the first arthropods to interact with the remains but ants were the only arthropods that associated with all the five stages of decay. A total of 9828 arthropods 4415 adults and 5413 immatures belonging to six orders in two classes of the phylum were collected in the study. The proportion of faunal abundance was Diptera 75.10 , Hymenoptera 22.90 , Coleoptera 1.80 , Dermaptera 0.10 , Oribatida 0.08 and Araneae 0.02 . Rate of decay was faster and faunal population was higher on carcasses during the dry season compared to the wet. Faunal population was also higher on carcasses placed in close proximity to the Zoological garden. The implications of these results on accuracy of estimated postmortem interval PMI and applicability in law were discussed. Aminat Adeola Adesina | Olalekan Joseph Soyelu "Succession of Arthropods on White Rat Carcasses in Ile-Ife, Southwestern Nigeria" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd35737.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/biological-science/zoology/35737/succession-of-arthropods-on-white-rat-carcasses-in-ileife-southwestern-nigeria/aminat-adeola-adesina
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.
Chen Y.P., Evans J.D., Murphy C., Gutell R., Zuker M., Gundersen-Rindal D., and Pettis J.S. (2009).
Morphological, Molecular, and Phylogenetic Characterization of Nosema cerenae, a Microsporidian Parasite Isolated from the European Honey Bee, Apis mellifera.
The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 56(2):142-147.
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).
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.
Molecular Identification of Bulinus Species in Ogun State, South-West Nigeria...AI Publications
The study considers the distribution of a small sample of 100 Bulinus snails, across 8 localities within Ogun State, Nigerian. Snails were identified using a molecular method of fragment and restriction profiles obtained from ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (its) amplicons. The results showed that the majority of Bulinus samples tested belonged to the species Bulinustruncatus while only one was Bulinusglobosus. The use of Rsa1 restriction endonuclease to cleave the ribosomal its of Bulinus, as a method of species identification, was adopted for the majority of samples, this being a quicker and cheaper method better suited to small laboratory environments. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the schistosome Dra1 repeat within each of the collected Bulinus samples was employed to determine the extent and distribution of infected snails within the sample areas. Successful amplification of the Dra1 repeat demonstrated that 23% of snails were infected with schistosome
Mobile phone has been source of microorganisms that cause diseases of public health concerns. In a study, one-fi fth of cellular phones examined were found to harbor pathogenic bacteria indicating that these devices may serve as vehicles of transmission. Swab samples were collected aseptically from the phones of different handlers like motor bike riders, food vendors, meat sellers and nursing mothers. Bacteria isolation and identifi cation were carried out using pour plating technique with distinctive morphological and biochemical characteristics.The pathogenicity of the bacterial isolates was investigated through oral inoculation into albino rats. Eighty-eight (88) bacteria were isolated and selected based on their resistance to antibiotics for pathological study. Loss in weight was observed in some albino rat. Along with reduction in the packed cell volume, hemoglobin but raised white blood cell. Animal inoculated with Bacillus cereus showed meningitis like symptom after the first week of inoculation. Also, there were short and stunted villi; low crystal depth with necrotic
debris in the lumen. It has been observed that cell phones may harbor pathogenic bacteria and can subsequently plays role as fomite in the disease transmission. Therefore, the need to educate community phone handlers in the rural area becomes imperative.
Succession of Arthropods on White Rat Carcasses in Ile Ife, Southwestern Nigeriaijtsrd
The forensic information provided by decomposition of small carcasses often goes unnoticed, even in advanced economies, due to frequent neglect. This paper reports the succession pattern of arthropod species that associated with carcasses of white rat, Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout Rodentia Muridae , in Ile Ife, southwestern Nigeria. Four bushy sites were chosen for the study and nine rat carcasses were placed at each site once a season for two seasons. The carcasses were monitored daily until the process of decay was over. The visiting and colonizing invertebrates were collected daily and identified. Immatures were also collected and reared in the laboratory till adult emergence for easy identification. The carcasses went through five stages of decay and the arthropods arrived in the order Diptera early fresh stage , Hymenoptera late fresh stage , Coleoptera and Dermaptera active decay stage , and Araneae and Oribatida advanced decay stage . Dipteran flies were the first arthropods to interact with the remains but ants were the only arthropods that associated with all the five stages of decay. A total of 9828 arthropods 4415 adults and 5413 immatures belonging to six orders in two classes of the phylum were collected in the study. The proportion of faunal abundance was Diptera 75.10 , Hymenoptera 22.90 , Coleoptera 1.80 , Dermaptera 0.10 , Oribatida 0.08 and Araneae 0.02 . Rate of decay was faster and faunal population was higher on carcasses during the dry season compared to the wet. Faunal population was also higher on carcasses placed in close proximity to the Zoological garden. The implications of these results on accuracy of estimated postmortem interval PMI and applicability in law were discussed. Aminat Adeola Adesina | Olalekan Joseph Soyelu "Succession of Arthropods on White Rat Carcasses in Ile-Ife, Southwestern Nigeria" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd35737.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/biological-science/zoology/35737/succession-of-arthropods-on-white-rat-carcasses-in-ileife-southwestern-nigeria/aminat-adeola-adesina
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.
Chen Y.P., Evans J.D., Murphy C., Gutell R., Zuker M., Gundersen-Rindal D., and Pettis J.S. (2009).
Morphological, Molecular, and Phylogenetic Characterization of Nosema cerenae, a Microsporidian Parasite Isolated from the European Honey Bee, Apis mellifera.
The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 56(2):142-147.
'INCIDENCE OF HYDATIDOSIS IN SLAUGHTERED CATTLE, BUFFALOES AND GOATS’, 'MOLEC...Hrishikesh Khakse
1) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘INCIDENCE OF HYDATIDOSIS IN SLAUGHTERED CATTLE, BUFFALOES AND GOATS’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 41, Page 86. 2) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS IN ANIMALS BY SEQUENCING OF COX-1 GENE’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 28, Page 86. 3) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘PREVALENCE OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS IN DOGS BY POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 29, Page 86.
Prevelance of Lyperosomum longicauda Rudolphi, 1809 (Dicrocoeliioidae: Tremat...Innspub Net
The present findings are related to reporting of the helminth parasitic infection in the Jungle babbler, at District: Naushahro Feroze. Host species were investigated from the month of June to August, 2018. These birds are non-migratory, former friendly, earth-colored siblings inhabit but internal visceral organs consisting intensity of parasites. Total (n=16) of T. striata were captured and dissected on a weekly basis under laboratory conditions at the Department of Zoology, SALU-Khairpur. All were found with the helminth population of digenean trematode but high prevalence was found in the month of June followed by other months. During surgical examination (n=44) specimens were recovered in the gall bladder of the host, morphologically having tapered ends at terminal body point, forebody is shorter than the hind body, protrusible rounded oral suckers but ventral suckers are rounded, maximum width at the post-acetabular region, oval-shaped pharynx, short esophagus, diverticular caeca, median-shaped ovary, and oblique testes, un-equal bands of lateral Stellaria and dark brown colored eggs. These features of the worms resemble already identified as; L. longicauda hence; identified as such. This species of fluke was first time recovered from the present host and the result of the present study revealed that it is a new host record from upper Sindh.
Analyses of Bacterial Community Dynamics Present in Culex quinquefasciatus Co...BRNSS Publication Hub
Culex quinquefasciatus are among the most important vectors of arboviral diseases worldwide. Recent
studies indicate that diverse midgut microbiota of mosquitoes significantly affects development, digestion,
metabolism, and immunity of their hosts. Here, we studied the bacterial diversity found in midgut part
of C. quinquefasciatus to understand the host and microbe interaction. The adult C. quinquefasciatus
mosquitos were collected from Loyola College Campus, Chennai, using ovitraps, and midgut part was
extracted; moreover, the DNA templates were isolated and amplified by polymerase chain reaction. The
DNA amplicons were sequenced by Illumina MiSeq gene sequencer. The total of 279,157 reads was
classified into 85, the bacterial genera of Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, and Aeromonas
predominantly found to be high when compared to the other bacterial genera. The present data strongly
encourage further investigations to verify the potential role of the detected bacteria in mosquito for the
transmission of several vectoral diseases.
— Herpesviruses that infect fishes belong to the Herpesvirales order and Alloherpesvirus family. In these species, the different types of herpesvirus can cause tumors, adenocarcinoma and skin lesions. This study aims detect to presence of herpesvirus in fishes from commercial, recreation or experimental creations of the States of São Paulo and Minas Gerais, Brazil. Organ fragments and lesions of 53 fish species coming of mortality cases were forwarded at Biological Institute for examination by transmission electron microscopy by research of etiological agent. By transmission electron microscopy through negative staining technique, were observed herpes virus-like particles in 46 fishes and through embedding resin technique, in ultrathin sections were visualized herpes virus immature particles, measuring 90-110nm in diameter, located in the nuclei and complete particles measuring 160nm. In the histopathology technique, lesions associated with the virus as corpuscles inclusion, papillomas, and dermal lesions and in the gills were observed in 27 fishes. The evaluated techniques of TEM and the histopathology were effective for the rapid detection of herpesvirus in the examined samples.
Microbiological Investigations on Gryllotalpa Africana [Orthoptera: Gryllotal...iosrjce
This paper reports for the first time the bacterial distribution on Gryllotalpa africana, a mole cricket
and one of the edible hexapods of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Children hunt it during the rainy and also
at dry seasons and it is harvested as snacks in the rural settings of the region. It is eaten raw, boiled, fried or
roasted along with other condiments including onions and pepper. It is a delicacy enjoyed in many other parts
of Nigeria. Assessments were made to identify bacteria that are associated with different external structures of
the edible mole cricket.
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.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 15 No. 1Wagner College
The Fall 2016 issue of the Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research includes abstracts presented at the recent Eastern Colleges Science Conference by Joseph Agro, Lauren Alessandro, Emily Bovasso, Kathleen Calves, James Catalano, Rabije Cekovic, Tyler Cropley, Michelle Detka, Brandon Hart, Kelsey Hopland, Yasmine Khaled, Marguerite Langwig, Kaitlin Murtha, Phillip Necaise, Jacob Orvidas, Amanda Pavia, Gent Prelvukaj and Amanda Weinberg. The issue also includes full-length papers by Michelle Detka, Alexandra Dmytrow, Kadijah Singleton, Christine Shouldis, Erynn Tuerk, Kristen Whitaker. The Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research has been published twice a year — once each semester — since the Fall 2002 issue.
palynotaxa and parasitic loads of nigerian currency potential sources of mic...INFOGAIN PUBLICATION
Currency notes are handled by a large number of people under a variety of personal and environmental conditions. A total of ninety six samples of one hundred naira denomination of Nigerian notes were procured from seven Local Government Areas (LGA) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The aim of the study was to determine the palynotaxa and parasitic load prevalent on currency notes. The leachates of currency notes were obtained and subjected to acetolysis and examined microscopically. Twenty six fungal spores type were recorded and were highly dominated by spores of Libertelli spp., Botrytis spp. and Spadicoides spp. Pollen achieved 54 % of the total bio-particles, whereas fungal spores and parasitic worms achieved 35.2 % and 10.60 %, respectively. The presence and relative abundance of these palynotaxa and parasites in currency notes affirms their propensity to spread vectors of diseases.
Diversity of monogenean (Platyhelminthes) parasites in freshwater fishes of K...paperpublications3
Abstract: Monogeneans are ectoparasites of fishes that can cause serious damage in the aquaculture industry. Twenty five species of freshwater fishes collected from different freshwater habitats of the Kannur district of Kerala were analysed for monogenean infection. A total of seven species of monogeneans were recovered from six species of fishes and overall prevalence was 7.81%.The parasites recovered include Gyrodactylus recurvensis, Dactylogyrus daniconi, Bifurcohaptor indicus, Dactylogyroides tripathii, Scleirocleidoides etropli, Diplozoon indicum and Neodiplozoon barbi. Among the fish hosts, Cyprinidae was found to be most suitable host for monogeneans. Dactylogyridae was the most diverse family. Four new host records were reported and all the seven species are new to the locality.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 14 No. 2Wagner College
The Spring 2016 issue contains papers by Joseph V. Agro, Kendra Best, Katie Murphy, Jessica Catanzaro, Nicole Bianco, Sandra G. Minchala, Karina Cusumano, Avika Sagwal, Alyssa Thompson and Juliana R. Ohanian.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 17 No. 1Wagner College
The Fall 2018 issue contains abstracts by Kevin Lipton, John Acquaviva, Lejla Bolevic, Anna Cios, Lauren Taibi, Samantha Susi & Jack Leighton, Mara Mineo, Tamar Amirov & Vinh Phuong, Kelsey Savje & Domenick Palmieri, Oskar Sundberg & Iireyel Gittens, Ellen Reidy, Derek Avery, Zachary Pandorf & Michelle Hernandez, Piper Skinner, Matthew Barreto & Victor Ruan, Monica Valero and Gent Prelvukaj. It also contains articles by Adam O’Brien, Cathryn Cantyne, Claire Johnson & Jacqueline Otake, Jordan Gonzales, Jacquelyn Thorsen, John Badagliacca, Elena Rotzokou, Ethan Meyer and Glen MacDonald.
'INCIDENCE OF HYDATIDOSIS IN SLAUGHTERED CATTLE, BUFFALOES AND GOATS’, 'MOLEC...Hrishikesh Khakse
1) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘INCIDENCE OF HYDATIDOSIS IN SLAUGHTERED CATTLE, BUFFALOES AND GOATS’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 41, Page 86. 2) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS IN ANIMALS BY SEQUENCING OF COX-1 GENE’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 28, Page 86. 3) Ingole R. S., Khakse H. D., et.al. ‘PREVALENCE OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS IN DOGS BY POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION’ Published in Abstract Compendium of 31st Annual Conference of Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologist, National Symposium on “Impact of Climate Change on Pathology of Disease of Animals, Poultry and Fish” 13th to 15th Nov. 2014, organized by Anand Agriculture University, Anand, Sr. No. 29, Page 86.
Prevelance of Lyperosomum longicauda Rudolphi, 1809 (Dicrocoeliioidae: Tremat...Innspub Net
The present findings are related to reporting of the helminth parasitic infection in the Jungle babbler, at District: Naushahro Feroze. Host species were investigated from the month of June to August, 2018. These birds are non-migratory, former friendly, earth-colored siblings inhabit but internal visceral organs consisting intensity of parasites. Total (n=16) of T. striata were captured and dissected on a weekly basis under laboratory conditions at the Department of Zoology, SALU-Khairpur. All were found with the helminth population of digenean trematode but high prevalence was found in the month of June followed by other months. During surgical examination (n=44) specimens were recovered in the gall bladder of the host, morphologically having tapered ends at terminal body point, forebody is shorter than the hind body, protrusible rounded oral suckers but ventral suckers are rounded, maximum width at the post-acetabular region, oval-shaped pharynx, short esophagus, diverticular caeca, median-shaped ovary, and oblique testes, un-equal bands of lateral Stellaria and dark brown colored eggs. These features of the worms resemble already identified as; L. longicauda hence; identified as such. This species of fluke was first time recovered from the present host and the result of the present study revealed that it is a new host record from upper Sindh.
Analyses of Bacterial Community Dynamics Present in Culex quinquefasciatus Co...BRNSS Publication Hub
Culex quinquefasciatus are among the most important vectors of arboviral diseases worldwide. Recent
studies indicate that diverse midgut microbiota of mosquitoes significantly affects development, digestion,
metabolism, and immunity of their hosts. Here, we studied the bacterial diversity found in midgut part
of C. quinquefasciatus to understand the host and microbe interaction. The adult C. quinquefasciatus
mosquitos were collected from Loyola College Campus, Chennai, using ovitraps, and midgut part was
extracted; moreover, the DNA templates were isolated and amplified by polymerase chain reaction. The
DNA amplicons were sequenced by Illumina MiSeq gene sequencer. The total of 279,157 reads was
classified into 85, the bacterial genera of Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, and Aeromonas
predominantly found to be high when compared to the other bacterial genera. The present data strongly
encourage further investigations to verify the potential role of the detected bacteria in mosquito for the
transmission of several vectoral diseases.
— Herpesviruses that infect fishes belong to the Herpesvirales order and Alloherpesvirus family. In these species, the different types of herpesvirus can cause tumors, adenocarcinoma and skin lesions. This study aims detect to presence of herpesvirus in fishes from commercial, recreation or experimental creations of the States of São Paulo and Minas Gerais, Brazil. Organ fragments and lesions of 53 fish species coming of mortality cases were forwarded at Biological Institute for examination by transmission electron microscopy by research of etiological agent. By transmission electron microscopy through negative staining technique, were observed herpes virus-like particles in 46 fishes and through embedding resin technique, in ultrathin sections were visualized herpes virus immature particles, measuring 90-110nm in diameter, located in the nuclei and complete particles measuring 160nm. In the histopathology technique, lesions associated with the virus as corpuscles inclusion, papillomas, and dermal lesions and in the gills were observed in 27 fishes. The evaluated techniques of TEM and the histopathology were effective for the rapid detection of herpesvirus in the examined samples.
Microbiological Investigations on Gryllotalpa Africana [Orthoptera: Gryllotal...iosrjce
This paper reports for the first time the bacterial distribution on Gryllotalpa africana, a mole cricket
and one of the edible hexapods of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Children hunt it during the rainy and also
at dry seasons and it is harvested as snacks in the rural settings of the region. It is eaten raw, boiled, fried or
roasted along with other condiments including onions and pepper. It is a delicacy enjoyed in many other parts
of Nigeria. Assessments were made to identify bacteria that are associated with different external structures of
the edible mole cricket.
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.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 15 No. 1Wagner College
The Fall 2016 issue of the Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research includes abstracts presented at the recent Eastern Colleges Science Conference by Joseph Agro, Lauren Alessandro, Emily Bovasso, Kathleen Calves, James Catalano, Rabije Cekovic, Tyler Cropley, Michelle Detka, Brandon Hart, Kelsey Hopland, Yasmine Khaled, Marguerite Langwig, Kaitlin Murtha, Phillip Necaise, Jacob Orvidas, Amanda Pavia, Gent Prelvukaj and Amanda Weinberg. The issue also includes full-length papers by Michelle Detka, Alexandra Dmytrow, Kadijah Singleton, Christine Shouldis, Erynn Tuerk, Kristen Whitaker. The Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research has been published twice a year — once each semester — since the Fall 2002 issue.
palynotaxa and parasitic loads of nigerian currency potential sources of mic...INFOGAIN PUBLICATION
Currency notes are handled by a large number of people under a variety of personal and environmental conditions. A total of ninety six samples of one hundred naira denomination of Nigerian notes were procured from seven Local Government Areas (LGA) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The aim of the study was to determine the palynotaxa and parasitic load prevalent on currency notes. The leachates of currency notes were obtained and subjected to acetolysis and examined microscopically. Twenty six fungal spores type were recorded and were highly dominated by spores of Libertelli spp., Botrytis spp. and Spadicoides spp. Pollen achieved 54 % of the total bio-particles, whereas fungal spores and parasitic worms achieved 35.2 % and 10.60 %, respectively. The presence and relative abundance of these palynotaxa and parasites in currency notes affirms their propensity to spread vectors of diseases.
Diversity of monogenean (Platyhelminthes) parasites in freshwater fishes of K...paperpublications3
Abstract: Monogeneans are ectoparasites of fishes that can cause serious damage in the aquaculture industry. Twenty five species of freshwater fishes collected from different freshwater habitats of the Kannur district of Kerala were analysed for monogenean infection. A total of seven species of monogeneans were recovered from six species of fishes and overall prevalence was 7.81%.The parasites recovered include Gyrodactylus recurvensis, Dactylogyrus daniconi, Bifurcohaptor indicus, Dactylogyroides tripathii, Scleirocleidoides etropli, Diplozoon indicum and Neodiplozoon barbi. Among the fish hosts, Cyprinidae was found to be most suitable host for monogeneans. Dactylogyridae was the most diverse family. Four new host records were reported and all the seven species are new to the locality.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 14 No. 2Wagner College
The Spring 2016 issue contains papers by Joseph V. Agro, Kendra Best, Katie Murphy, Jessica Catanzaro, Nicole Bianco, Sandra G. Minchala, Karina Cusumano, Avika Sagwal, Alyssa Thompson and Juliana R. Ohanian.
Wagner College Forum for Undergraduate Research, Vol. 17 No. 1Wagner College
The Fall 2018 issue contains abstracts by Kevin Lipton, John Acquaviva, Lejla Bolevic, Anna Cios, Lauren Taibi, Samantha Susi & Jack Leighton, Mara Mineo, Tamar Amirov & Vinh Phuong, Kelsey Savje & Domenick Palmieri, Oskar Sundberg & Iireyel Gittens, Ellen Reidy, Derek Avery, Zachary Pandorf & Michelle Hernandez, Piper Skinner, Matthew Barreto & Victor Ruan, Monica Valero and Gent Prelvukaj. It also contains articles by Adam O’Brien, Cathryn Cantyne, Claire Johnson & Jacqueline Otake, Jordan Gonzales, Jacquelyn Thorsen, John Badagliacca, Elena Rotzokou, Ethan Meyer and Glen MacDonald.
Genotoxicity of Eleusine indica (Nkim enang: Efik) was investigated in the Wister strain albino rat (Rattus novergicus). Nine (9) male and nine (9) female rats were randomly assigned to three (3) groups, of which two were exposed to the aqueous extract of E.indica – Group A (control-no extract)), Group B (50 mg/kg BW of E. indica) and Group C (100 mg/kg BW of E. indica). This was administered to the rats by oral gavage for 14 days after which the peripheral blood from the tail tips were collected and assayed for the presence of micronuclei, following standard procedures. Proximate analysis and phytochemical screening of the herb extract was carried out. Results obtained showed that E. indica did not cause any significant (P > 0.05) increase in the incidence of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in rat peripheral blood at any of the doses administered. The polychromatic: normochromatic erythrocyte (PCE: NCE) ratio was found to be in the range of 0.50 ± 0.11 to 0.55 ± 0.02. Also, the aqueous herb extract is rich in Carbohydrates (76.17%) and Tannins (21.76%). Mean body weights (MBW) of rats showed normal distribution throughout the duration of the investigation. The results of this study demonstrate that E. indica does not confer any genotoxicity in mammals. Further in-depth study on its efficacy is recommended.
The Parity Rate of Indoor-Resting Adult Female Anopheles and Culex Mosquitoes...IJEAB
A study on the parity rate of indoor-resting Anopheles and Culex mosquitoes and their implication in disease transmission was carried out in Nnamdi Azikiwe University female hostel between June and July 2016. The mosquitoes were sampled weekly from 24 randomly selected rooms using pyrethrum knock-down collection (P.K.C). A total of 516 mosquitoes comprising of 4 species: Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles funestus, Culex quinquefasciatus and Culex annulioris, were collected during the study period. The mosquitoes were examined for their abdominal gradings/gonotrophic stages and dissected for parity determination. Culex quinquefasciatus (61.43%) constituted the most abundant species followed by Anopheles gambiae (30.04%) and Anopheles funestus (7.56%) and the least being Culex annulioris (0.97%). Results showed that majority of the vector species were fed and parous and variations among the parity rates of the 4 species was significant (P <0.05). The high rate of the fed and parous mosquito species is of utmost concern in the hostel environment and therefore control measures aimed at eliminating the breeding sites and reducing its contact with the students should be embraced and practiced so as to minimize disease transmission among the students.
Analysis of ectoparasites and gastrointestinal parasites of chickens in moder...Innspub Net
A study was carried out in the commune of Korhogo to assess gastrointestinal parasites and ectoparasites in modern poultry farms. To achieve this, 214 droppings samples, including 129 broilers and 85 laying hens from 40 broiler farms and 12 laying chicken farms were collected and analyzed using the flotation method. The results highlighted two (2) species of mallophagous lice namely Menopon gallinae (50%) and Menacanthus stramineus (33%) and a species of bug namely Cimex lectularius (17%) for ectoparasites. As for the gastro-parasites, two (2) species and four (4) genera namely Trichostrongylus tenuis (17%), Syngamus trachea (19%); Heterakis sp (10%), Ascaridia sp (17%), Raillietina sp (8%) and Eimeria sp (29%) have been identified. Coccidiosis (Eimeria) was the most important pathology in broiler farms with 67% and less important in laying hens (33%). Helminth eggs have been observed more in laying hens. Ultimately laying hens are more infested than broilers.
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.
Assessment of Endophytic Fungal Flora Responsible for Plant Growth Promotion...Sryahwa Publications
The present paper discusses the highest colonization of fungal endophytes as Alternaria speciesin comparison with Colletotrichumspecies and Fusarium species in all three plants Pongamia pinnata, Securinega leucopyrus and Rhus mysorensis. These endophytic fungi protect these plants from various
environmental factors such as temperature, moisture and other environmental factors.
biological activity of Calotropis procera against desert locust and migratory...Narimene Kaidi
The treatments based on acetone extracts of Calotropis procera against imagos of Schistocerca gregaria and Locusta migratoria have been
very convincing due to the speed and efficiency of the action of said plant, on mortality and on haemogram of treated locusts.
Mortality of Fayoumi and Sonali Chicks in Scavenging Rearing Systempaperpublications3
Abstract: Fayoumi and Sonali breeds are commonly reared under scavenging system in Bangladesh. Chick mortality has the very important impact on economy of farmers. The aim of the present study was to determine the mortality rate and the causes of mortality of Fayoumi and Sonali chicks. One observational cross-sectional study was done on the Fayoumi and Sonali chicks at Chittagong and Noakhali district from October 2005 to July 2006. A total of 48 farmers (24 from each Upazila) were selected randomly, who rear chicks under scavenging condition and as well as had broody hens. Twelve eggs of each breed were supplied to each farmer. The chicks were hatched out by the broody hens. Then the chicks were reared under scavenging system. The mortality detected for Fayoumi was 57.3%, which was less than that of the Sonali (68.8%) but did not vary significantly (χ2 = 1.21, df = 1, p > 0.05). The mortality of Fayoumi chicks at Noakhali site was little higher (59.1%) than that of Chittagong (55.4%), but it did not vary significantly (χ2 = 0.28, df = 1, p > 0.05). The mortality of Sonali chicks also did not differ significantly (χ2 = 0.16, df = 1, p > 0.05). The mortality was more by diseases than predators. The common predators were crow, wildcat, domestic cat, mongoose and rat in both study sites. The crow predated (Fayumi; 63.64% and Sonali; 70.83%) more baby chicks than others predators. The highest proportional mortality was caused by Mycoplasmosis + Colibacillosis (36.05 % and 36.94 %) in case of Fayoumi and Sonali followed by the second highest attributed to Mycoplasmosis (26.74%) and (22.52%) respectively. Fayoumi chicks were lower mortality than Sonali under scavenging rearing condition.
The Senegalese grasshopper Oedaleus senegalensis (Krauss, 1877) is a serious agricultural pest in Senegal. The use of chemical pesticides on a large scale has raised concerns because of side effects on health and the environment. As an alternative to chemical control, a fungal strain of Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschnikoff, Sorokin) was isolated from the Senegalese grasshopper, and grown in agar culture medium. The effect on O. senegalensis was studied with an oil fungus formulation of 340 × 105 conidia/ml. Spraying took place in the field, and both nymphs and adults were infected with the fungus oil formulation. A total of 1.5 liter oil formulation of fungus was used for 1500 m2. Two methods were used to assess effectiveness: 1) we captured infected insects and fed them fresh grass daily in the laboratory and recorded time to death; 2) we counted insects in the field before and after application. In the field, the number of insects decreased significantly after the fungus treatment. In the laboratory, the lethal time at which 50% of the insects died varied between 8 to 9 days. The effectiveness of M. anisopliae in natural environment decreased with time.
The effect of the fungi Imidacloprid and Nano- Imidacloprid on the target insect pest show that, under laboratory condition the LC50s obtained 88.3x 104 and 127.3x
104conidia/ml for B. tabaci after treated with different concentrations of Nano-Imidacloprid and M.a respectively. The LC50s for M. persicae recorded 66.4x 104 and
137.2x 104 conidia /ml after treated with the corresponding pathogen.
Under field condition in El Esraa (Nobarya) the data obtained detect tat, the M. persicae significantly decreased to 7,1±4.6, 17.1±4.8and 27.5±4.8 individuals after
post applications of Nano-Imidacloprid treatments after 50, 90 and 120 days. When B. tabaci treated with Imidacloprid the individuals significantly decreased to
25.5±4.4, 29.9±4.8, 39.9±8.8and 49.9±2.8 individuals as compared to 49.4±5.8, 80.4±5.8, 98.4±5.8 and 188.4±5.8 individuals in the control after20, 50, 90 and 120
days respectively. El-Kassaseen (Ismailia) governorate, both of the target insect pests significantly decreased.
The experiments in the field showed that, in two governorates, the tomato infesta tion with B. tabaci or M. psicae significantly decreased after treatments by
Imidacloprid and nano-Imidacloprid as compared to control plants.
Ingoldian Fungi in Kigga Falls, Chikmagalur District, KarnatakaIOSR Journals
Fungi are the ubiquitous organism.The exist in diverse forms in a range of habitats, arboreal,
freshwater, marine, subterranean and terrestrial. In fresh water we concentrated only Ingoldian fungi. The
selected study sites of foam samples and decaying debris were collected in the same study area and kept for
screening and incubation respectively. The conidia developing on decayingdebris were screened using
microscope. The collected foam samples were revealed Ingoldian fungi. In this contribution of occurrence and
abundance of Ingoldian fungi were enumerated. A total of 24 species were isolated twelve genera were
identified.
Similar to A survey on the ectoparasites and haemoparasites of (20)
A survey on the ectoparasites and haemoparasites of
1. Journal of Natural Sciences Research www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3186 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0921 (Online)
Vol.3, No.2, 2013
A Survey on the Ectoparasites and Haemoparasites of
Grasscutter (Thryonomys Swinderianus) Reared under Captive
1 2*
Conditions
1 1 3
Okeke, J.J , Ikegbunam, N.M , Umeaniebue, A. C , Ezeonyejiaku D.C and Ezeadila, J.O
1. Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
2. Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
3. Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
* E-mail of the corresponding author: nmnkechukwu@yahoo.com
Abstract:
The survey of ectoparasites and haemoparasites of grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) was carried out using ten
grasscutters housed in a two-tier cage hutch and fed with a compounded diet of forage and agricultural by-products.
The examination of the grasscutters body for ectoparasites was done carefully by brushing the fur of each grasscutter
into a clean white calico material and close monitoring of their skin. The parasites brushed out were collected from
the white calico material for examination using a pair of blunt forceps. The parasites collected were identified in the
laboratory. The ectoparasites identified were Ixodes aulacodi,, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Xenopsyllacheopis
with Ixodes aulacodi being the most prevalent (50% infection) and Xenopsylla cheopis being the least prevalent
(20% infection). The haemoparasites were identified in the laboratory through parasitological diagnosis using
Giemsa stained thin and thick films and Delafield’s haematoxylin stained thick film preparation. The blood samples
were subjected to a saline wet mount as well as microhaemocrit concentration technique. The haemoparasites
identified were Plasmodium and Trypanosoma species with equal prevalence of 10%. The result of this experiment
was subjected to statistical analysis using chi-square test and this showed a significant difference (P > 0.05) in
prevalence between male and female grasscutters. It is hereby recommended that farmers should seek veterinary
services to ensure good health of the animals, high productivity and to avoid cross infection to humans.
Keywords: Ectoparasite, Haemoparasites and Grasscutter
1. Introduction:
Parasitic diseases have been with animals since time immemorial and it would be erroneous to believe that all the
possible parasites have been discovered. The majority of parasites are invertebrates. Mostly arthropods typically
parasitize livestock of which grasscutter is one. The grasscutter is an herbivorous rodent found mostly in the savanna
and woodland areas in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its massive body size, bristle fur, small ears and
eyes, continuously growing incisor, short limbs and a good sense of smell (Abioye 2010). It belongs to the class
mammalian, order rodentia, family thryonomidae, genus thryonomys and has two species Thryonomys swinderianus
and Thryonomys gregorianus (Rosevear 1969).
The initial discovery of parasites was without the aid of microscope and was possible because of the sufficiently big
size of the organisms (in the case of macroparasites). But the isolation of microparasites has been made easy by the
invention of high power microscope and other tools (Radostits, 1994).
Ectoparasites affect livestock in several ways and are known to be vectors of pathogen causing diseases. This might
result to dermatitis, skin necrosis, blockage of orifices, ricket and loss blood which can lead to reduced weight gain.
This can also lead to epizootic abortion, paralysis, damage to carcass and fleece, discomfort and uneasiness in the
infected animal (Adu 2002). Ectoparasites of grasscutter mainly include ticks and fleas (Adu 1999, Yeboah and
Simpson 2004, Mpoame 1994). The ticks are found in all regions of the body of the grasscutter with the anterior part
of the body having the highest infestation. Fleas are mostly seen on dead grasscutters. Some of the naturally
occurring haemoparasites grasscutter include; Trypanosoma congolense, Trypanosoma vivax and Trypanosoma
simiae (Nanso and Okaka 1998). Other haemoparasites include Plasmodium and Babesia species (Opara and
Fagbemi 2010).
It is established that most animals show much tolerance to certain infestation due to their genetic make-up. This
innate factor seen in grasscutters help suppress certain diseases and at certain times in the animals’ life they tend to
be more vulnerable to the effect of parasitoids. More so, infestation by one parasite may expose the animals to a
second infestation due to change in the blood indices (Opara and Fagbemi 2010).
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2. Journal of Natural Sciences Research www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3186 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0921 (Online)
Vol.3, No.2, 2013
2. Materials and Method:
2.1 Study site:
The research was carried out at May and Jay farms, Ahocol Estate Phase II Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The farm
falls within the humid area of the South-Eastern part of Nigeria with almost equal duration of rainfall and dry season.
2.2 Study animals:
The experiment was carried out using ten grasscutters procured from Idama farms, Asaba in Delta State. They were
transported to the laboratory in perforated mental boxes measuring 50x40x30cm with dry grasses on the floor to
provide good ventilation and conducive environment for the animals on transit. In the laboratory they were randomly
allocated to their compartments and acclimatized for two weeks to reduce the transportation stress before the
experiment commenced.
2.3 Survey of ectoparasites:
The ectoparasite study was done using hand brush, white calico material, hand lens, microscope, a pair of blunt
forceps, specimen bottles and 70% alcohol for preservation of parasites. The limbs of the grasscutters were bound
with twine and their mouth held with mouth guard as in Soulsby (1982). The fur was brushed onto the white calico
material. The brushing was done from the posterior to the anterior in a unique manner to ensure that the ectoparasites
were collected. With the aid of the hand lens and a pair of blunt forceps the parasites were sorted and transferred to
the microscope slide for identification after which they were preserved in specimen bottles with 70% alcohol.
2.4 Haemoparasitological examination:
A total of ten venous blood samples were collected from the grasscutters by nibbling off the terminal portion of their
tails with surgical scalpel and stored in EDTA bottles and taken to the laboratory for diagnosis. The blood samples
not processed immediately were stored at a temperature of 20oC until used. Microscopic examination of blood
samples were done by using the following techniques; saline wet mount technique, Giemsa stained thin and thick
films, Delafield’s’ haemotoxylin stained thick films and microhaemocrit concentration method. The procedures for
the above techniques were strictly adhered to in line with W.H.O (1991). The mounting, making of films,
concentration of blood and principle of microscopy for each was done using a Nikon electric microscope as regards
oil immersion and specified objective lens. Proper laboratory safety precautions were also taken in order to get an
unbiased result. The identification of the haemoparasites were done using the information and structures provided by
W.H.O (1991) on parasitized red blood cells.
The results obtained from the ectoparasite examination were subjected to statistical analysis as provided by Bush et
al (1997) where the prevalence, mean abundance and mean intensity of the parasites were tested for and expressed as
follows; Prevalence (N) = N1/N2 X 100/1
Where N = Percentage prevalence
N1 = Number of host infected
N2 = Total number of hosts examined for the parasite
Mean abundance (MA) is the ratio of the total number of a particular parasite species in a particular host to the total
number of the hosts examined.
Mean intensity (Mi) is the ratio of total number of a particular species found in a sample to the number of hosts
infected.
3.0 Result and Discussion:
3.1Result
The result of the survey of ectoparasites and haemoparasites of the glasscutters studied revealed that six were
infected with a prevalence of 60%. Out of the six infected, two concomitantly had haemoparasite infestation (Table
1). Also, of the six infected, each had either one or more of the recovered ectoparasites. A total of sixteen
ectoparasites belonging to two arthropod taxa – Acarina and Siphonaptera were recovered, two species of Ixodid tick
namely; Ixodes aulacodi and Rhipicephalus sanguineus and one Siphonaptera (Flea) Xenopsylla cheopis.
The infestation status, predilection site and ectoparasites abundance on each grasscutter are presented in Table (1)
and (3). For ticks, five (38.5%) were found on the head, 6 (46.2%) on the neck and 1 (7.6%) was found on the
abdomen and 1 (7.6%) was found on the limbs. The fleas were recovered around the chest (Table 1).
3.2 Discussion:
Of the ten grasscutters examined for ectoparasites, six were infected with ectoparasites belonging to two taxa of
arthropods – Tick with two species Ixodes aulacodi and Rhipicephalus sanguineus and one fleas species Xenopsylla
cheopis (Table 2). The most common was the Ixodes aulacodi with 50% prevalence, abundance of nine and mean
intensity of 1.8 (Table 2). These findings confirm to the work of Yeboah and Simpson (2004) that in the array of
ectoparasites of grasscutter, the Tick is the most prevalent. This high prevalence of the Tick may be due to adhesive
mechanism to the host. The low prevalence of the Flea is due to its ability to escape from the host by flying. It was
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3. Journal of Natural Sciences Research www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-3186 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0921 (Online)
Vol.3, No.2, 2013
also noted that the predilection sites of the parasites was highly concentrated on the anterior region (Head, neck and
chest) and low at the posterior region. This could be attributed to the exposure of the animal having its sense organs
not usually covered well by fur at the head region. It is worthy of note that the Ixodid Tick though species may vary
as a result of the region in which the research was carried out are the most prevalent ectoparasites of grasscutter. It
would therefore appear that transmission of ectoparasites is going on between grasscutters and other livestock. The
Ticks were also found to be more concentrated on the head region as reported by Yeboah and Simpson (2004).
The results of the haemoparasite survey reveal the infestation of the red blood cells of the grasscutter by plasmodium
species and trypanosome species. The plasmodium species was detected in the thin film because the red blood cells
were not lysed thus permitting their visibility and detection. The observation of trypanosome through thick film
technique was as a result of sensitive nature of thick film in detecting parasites since the red blood cells are lysed.
The result was in line with that of Opara and Fagbemi (2008) who reported the infestation of the red blood cells of
the grasscutter with plasmodium species, though due to lack of biochemical techniques the parasites could not be
identified to species level. The result of the present study confirms the report of Ntekim and Braide (1981) who
observed few cases of naturally occurring blood parasites in the grasscutter. The observation of these haemoparasites
in the grasscutter implies that humans living or working close to the breeding and rearing farm of the grasscutter
could possibly get infected through the bite of the vectors like the mosquitoes and the tsetse fly.
4.0 Conclusion
The result of the present study shows that glasscutters’ play an important role in the epidemiology of certain zoonotic
diseases.
References:
Abioye, F. O. (2010). Grasscutter farming in Nigeria Springfield publishers Owerri, Imo State. Pg 144
Adu, E. K. (2002) Dexieme conference on promoting the dissemination of the Cane Rats in Africa, Su De
Sahara. Experience s of a Research Institute on Grasscutter Farming in Ghana.
F. A. O. (1995). Synopsis of special programme on food production in support of food security in low income food
deficit countries (LIFDCs) FAO.
Merwe, M N.(2000). Tooth succession in the Greater Cane Rat (Thryonomys swinderianus) Journal of Zoology 251:
535 – 547
Namso, M. N. and Okaka, C. E. (1998). A survey of naturally occurring parasites of Cane Rats. Nigerian Journal of
Parasitology. 28: 28 – 29
National Research Council, (1991). Quail: Micro livestock little known small animal with a promising
Economic future. National Academy Press, Washington D.C. 147 – 155
Opara, M. N. and Fagbemi, B. O. (2008). Hematological and plasma biochemistry of the adult wild African
Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus): A zoonosis factor in the tropical humid rain forest of
Southeast Nigeria. Ann. N. Y. Acad. Sci., 1149: 394 – 397
Rosevear, D. R. (1969). The rodents of West Africa. British Museum Publication, London
Soulsby, E. J. (1982). Helminthes, Arthropods and Protozoa of domesticated animals. 7th Edition, Bailliere Tindal,
London. Pp. 367 – 703
W.H.O. (1991). Basic laboratory methods in medical parasitology, Geneva. Pp 39 – 90
Wood, A. E. (1974). The evolution of the old world and new world Hystricomorphs. Plenum Press, New York Pp 21
– 26
Yeboah, S. Y. and Simpson, P. K. (2004). A preliminary survey of the ectoparasites and end parasites of the
grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus): Case study in Ekunmfi central region of Ghana. Journal of the Ghana
Science Association 3: 30 – 36
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ISSN 2224-3186 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0921 (Online)
Vol.3, No.2, 2013
Table 1: Infestation status, predilection sites and abundance of ectoparasites on
each grasscutter.
GRASSCUTTER INFESTATION STATUS PREDILECTION SITE TOTAL
TICK FLEA
H NALT H NALT
1 +1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
2 + 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3
3 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 + 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 4
5 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
6 + 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
7 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
8 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
9 + 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
10 + 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4
TOTAL 5 6 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 0
GRAND TOTAL 13 3 16
(Where H = Head, N = Neck, A= Abdomen, L = Limbs, T = Tail)
Table 2: The prevalence, Abundance and intensity of the two taxa of ectoparasites
On the grasscutters examined.
PARASITES TICK FLEA
Number examined 10 10
Number infected 6 2
Number of species recovered 13 3
Prevalence (%) 60 20
Abundance 13 3
Mean intensity 2.2 1.5
Mean abundance 1.3 0.3
Table 3: Prevalence, abundance, mean abundance and mean intensity of the different species of ectoparasites
(Tick and Flea) recovered.
Parameters I. aulacodi R. sanguineus X. cheopis
Number of
Grasscutters examined 10 10 10
Number infected 5 3 2
Prevalence of each species (%) 50 30 20
Abundance of different species 9 4 3
Mean abundance 0.9 0.4 0.3
Mean intensity 1.8 1.3 1.5
Table 4: Shows the infection parameters of the haemoparasite
Parasite Number Number prevalence (%) Abundance Mean Mean
Examined infected Abundance Intensity
Plasmodium 10 1 10.00 2 2.0 0.2
Sp.
Trypanosome 10 1 10.00 1 1.0 0.1
Sp.
60
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