Balarabe Rabiu Mohammed
PhD, Abertay University, Dundee
Title: Gastrointestinal parasites of turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria
Biography
Biography: Balarabe Rabiu Mohammed
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Gastrointestinal parasites constitute a major impediment to efficient poultry production including turkeys, thereby leading to substantial economic losses. Little is known about these parasites of turkeys in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. This research is therefore aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of turkey in the Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja.
Methodology: Between April and August 2016, one hundred (100) gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) and fecal samples comprising 33% domestic and 67% exotic breeds of turkeys slaughtered in Gwagwalada Area Council abattoir and slaughter slabs were randomly collected and analyzed for intestinal parasites.
Findings: This study revealed that nematode had the highest prevalent rate of infection in both local and exotic breeds. It was further revealed that 10% of the samples were found to be negative for parasites whilst 90% were found to be positive. The only Cestode observed was Raillietina spp. (13%), nematodes (40%) and protozoa (61%). A record of mixed infection was observed in both local and exotic breeds but was higher in exotic breeds with the percentage of single infection 12%, double infection 18%, triple infection 8%, quadruple infection 10% and pentaple infection 42%.
Conclusion & Significance: The present findings led to a significant conclusion that Gwagwalada metropolis is highly enzootic for the intestinal parasites of turkeys. This study has implication on the provision of sustainable animal protein for human consumption.