Intestinal parasites of livestock in Tripoli Area, Libya
Keywords:
Intestinal parasites, Livestock, Tripoli, LibyaAbstract
Livestock, particularly sheep, play an important role in supporting both livelihoods and the economy in many parts of the world. However, gastrointestinal parasitic infections remain one of the major health problems affecting sheep production. These infections are more commonly seen in young animals, older sheep, and those that are immunocompromised or already suffering from other diseases. The severity of parasitism depends on several factors, including the type of parasite, its life cycle, and the condition of the host animal. In Libya, there is still limited information available regarding gastrointestinal parasites in sheep. For this reason, the present study was carried out to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among sheep in Tripoli and to evaluate some associated risk factors.A cross-sectional study was conducted using 240 fecal samples collected from sheep on 23 farms distributed across six municipalities in Tripoli (Al-Swani, Janzur, Al-Garabulli, Tajura, Qasr Bin Ghashir, and Sidi Salim). The samples were examined using flotation and McMaster egg-counting techniques. Overall, 81.25% of the examined samples were positive for at least one type of gastrointestinal parasite. Strongyle-type eggs were the most frequently detected (79.2%). The highest infection rates were recorded in Al-Swani (93.5%) and Janzur (84.0%). Nematodirus eggs were found in 13.8% of the samples, with Sidi Salim showing the highest rate (36.1%). Eimeria oocysts were detected in 13.3% of the samples, and Janzur had the highest prevalence (34.0%). Monieziaexpansa and Monieziabenedeni eggs were identified in 9.2% and 1.3% of samples, respectively. Age and body condition were significantly associated with infection. Sheep under one year of age showed higher infection rates (86.3% in females and 72.4% in males; P = 0.016). Animals with poor body condition were all infected (100%), compared with those in medium (87%) and good (61%) body condition. Sheep that received regular preventive anthelmintic treatment had lower infection rates. In conclusion, gastrointestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent among sheep in Tripoli, with rates appearing higher than those reported in some neighboring countries. These findings highlight the need for regular monitoring and improved parasite control strategies to reduce economic losses and improve animal health.
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