Determination of gastrointestinal parasites of ruminants in the Zapotitán valley, La Libertad, El Salvador

Abstract

It is important to carry out baseline studies to know groups, genera or families of gastrointestinal parasites that affect domestic ruminants. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the gastrointestinal parasites present in ruminants of the USAM experimental field and two private livestock farms in the valley of Zapotitán, La Libertad. Fecal samples were collected from 39 cattle and 23 sheep between January and December 2023. To analyze the samples, direct saline/lugol microscopy, fecal flotation and modified McMaster techniques were used. Nematodes were the most frequent in the 39 bovine samples, followed by protozoa and cestodes. Also, from a total of 23 sheep samples nematodes were the most frequent, followed by protozoa. Five taxa of bovine gastrointestinal parasites were recorded, in different frequencies, which were: the order Strongylida, Buxtonella sulcata, Eimeria spp, Trichuris spp, and Moniezia benedeni. In sheep, two taxa were found: the order Strongylida and Eimeria spp. The Strongylida group was the most frequent in the ruminant fecal samples analyzed. The mean number of eggs per gram of feces was <50 eggs for the total number of cattle and sheep samples analyzed. Although studies of this type have already been carried out in domestic animals, it is important to note that gastrointestinal parasites present in a particular geographical area can change, especially when changes are made in livestock production practices. Therefore, it is important to know the presence of gastrointestinal parasites and their pathogenic effects to take effective prevention and control measures.