Browsing by Author "Chopde Adesh Eknath"

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    Prevalence of Eimeria spp. In Buffalo Calves of Mumbai Region and its Therapeutic Management by Using Common Anticoccidials
    (MAFSU, Nagpur, 2024-04-10) Chopde Adesh Eknath; Palampalle, H. Y.
    This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and control of gastrointestinal parasites, with a focus on Eimeria spp. infections in buffalo calves in the Mumbai region at organized farms over a period from April 2023 to January 2024. A total of 254 faecal samples were collected and analyzed using both conventional and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for a comprehensive assessment. The results revealed an overall 48.81 percent prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections, with Eimeria spp. being the most predominant at 27.95 percent. Other detected G.I parasites viz. Strongyle, Strongyloides spp., Trichuris spp., Capillaria spp. Balantidium spp., Toxocara spp. and mixed infections. The prevalence of Eimeria spp. varied with age, showing the highest infection (29.57%) in the 12-18 week and lowest in the 18-24 week age group. Female calves exhibited a significantly higher incidence of (76.05%) as compared to males (23.94%). Seasonal analysis indicated the highest prevalence during the rainy season (33.33%), with lowest in the summer (19.04%). Treatment was evaluated, Amprolium showed a reduction in oocyst counts by an average of 96.46%, whereas Toltrazuril resulted in a slightly higher average reduction of 97.34 percentage. Which showed Toltrazuril was deemed more efficious over Amprolium. Species identification confirmed the presence of three Eimeria species (E. bovis, E. auburnesis, E. albamensis) by conventional and molecular method. Integrated control strategies, including improved farm management, frequent faecal sample screening and regular use of anticoccidials, were advised and assessed across three organized farms. Results showed a fifty percent decrease in mortality rates and improvement in body condition scores (BCS) in study period advocating these strategies effectively manage coccidiosis with improvement of health and economic sustainability. Present study underscores the significance of regular monitoring and tailored interventions in managing parasitic infections in buffalo calves, with special to better calf welfare and farm productivity of livestock owners.