Diversity of Eimeria species in backyard poultry of subtropical hilly region of Meghalaya, India

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and diversity of Eimeria species in the backyard poultry of hilly region of Meghalaya. A total of 674 nos. of fecal samples of poultry were collected from different age groups viz. 28 weeks (252 nos.) and examined for detection of Eimeria oocysts by flotation techniques. Sporulation of the oocyst was done in 2.5% potassium dichromate solution for identification of the Eimeria species. The overall prevalence of Eimeria sp. in the backyard poultry was 30.12%. Eight species of Eimeria viz. E. tenella (24.63%), E. necatrix (10.84%), E. maxima (0.98%), E. mitis (1.48%), E. brunetti (1.97%), E. praecox (1.48%), E. mivati (0.98%) and E. acervulina (2.96%) were recorded. Mixed infections were recorded in 54.68% birds. Highest and lowest infections was recorded in the month of May (40.29%) and December (15.15%), respectively. Season wise, highest infection recorded during monsoon (33.87%) followed by spring (32.77%), winter (27.78%) and autumn (18.37%). Age wise, 68.18%, 25.86% and 15.08% infections were recorded in 28 weeks old birds, respectively.