Characterization of sheep production systems and their relation with gastrointestinal parasites in four municipalities of Campeche, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: The increase in the number of sheep in herds is accompanied many times by bad practices, which lead to nutritional deficiencies, rises in parasitism and loss of homeostasis. Therefore, gastrointestinal parasites from sheep were characterized from four municipalities of the state of Campeche.

Design/methodology/approach: The number of sheep studied was 243, evaluating the body weight, body condition, coloring of the eye mucosae, age, eggs per grams of feces, and family of parasites. The data were analyzed through an ANOVA and Tukey’s means test (P<0.05), as well as Spearman’s correlation analysis using the statistical package Statistica 7.

Results: Five parasite families were found (Trichostrongyloidae, Strongyloidae, Trichuridae, Eimeriidae and Anoplocephalidae). In the production systems of the municipality of Calakmul the five families of parasites were found, with a parasite load of 3,571 hpg. The family Trichostrongyloidae presented the highest frequency in the municipalities of Champotón and Calakmul with 52 and 75%, respectively. The animals with best body condition, FAMACHA© and lowest parasite load were observed in Hecelchakán.

Limitations on study/implications: It is suggested to carry out a study of anthelmintic resistance, to establish a management of prevention and control of gastrointestinal parasites.

Findings/conclusions: The frequency of gastrointestinal parasites is influenced by the management and the municipality of origin within the sheep production systems in the state of Campeche.