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Which parasites can cause diseases in poultry?
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Poultry farming
Young chickens in an organic poultry farm.
In the context of poultry farming, several parasites are known to cause significant diseases. These include:
- Protozoa: Coccidiosis is a common gastrointestinal infection in poultry caused by sporozoan parasites known as coccidia, specifically those in the genus Eimeria (such as Eimeria tenella, which causes cecal coccidiosis). Another protozoan-related condition is blackhead, as well as hexamitiasis in turkeys.123
- Helminths: Infestations by roundworms and tapeworms are significant parasitic concerns.1
- External Parasites: Poultry are also susceptible to infestations by lice and mites.1
Modern animal husbandry practices, including strict sanitation, preventative measures, and targeted treatments, are essential for maintaining control over these parasitic infections.13