Condensed tannin and integrated parasite management for livestock

Abstract

Animal husbandry is root base of rural economy. It plays an important role in upliftment of the economic status of rural and urban people. Livestock production depends on health of the livestock and any compromise on health ground will shatter the hope of livestock sector. Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic worm infections have been found widely in tropics, and may cause serious clinical disease, welfare problems and loss in production in farm animals. Management and medication have an important influence on parasite concentration and productivity in small ruminants. Traditionally, chemoprophylaxis has been used as the main strategy to control GI parasitism in ruminants. However, frequent use of anthemintic drugs has led to widespread development of resistant strains. Use of phyto- chemicals is becoming preferable and may offer better control than anthelmintic to treat parasites. Consumption of condensed tannin containing plants may affect GI nematode numbers and animal performance in a number of ways. CT also may react directly by interfering with parasite egg hatching and development to infective stage larvae. Indirect effects on resistance and resilience could be mediated by changes in the supply of digested protein.