Vol. 15 No. 164 - 173 (2024): Gastrointestinal Parasites of Chicken Slaughtered at Ariara Junction Market, Osisioma Ngwa L.G.A., Abia State, Nigeria.

Gastrointestinal parasites of chicken cause significant harm and financial losses on the poultry
sector as they can induce weight loss, reduce egg production and feed conversion ratio, causing
malnourishment and mortality. This study aimed to identify the gastrointestinal parasites of
chicken slaughtered in Ariaria Junction Market, Abia State. A total of 150 chicken intestines
were collected from poultry butchers, after obtaining their consent, into a labelled container
indicating the breed and sex of the chickens. The samples were transported to the laboratory
for visual and microscopic examinations. The samples were processed using floatation
technique and all gastrointestinal parasites were identified directly under the microscope. The
result showed that 126(84%) chicken samples were infected with the eggs and adults of
gastrointestinal nematodes only from three (3) genera. The nematodes present were Ascaridia
galli 86(68.3%), Heterakis gallinarum 15(11.9%), Subulura brumpti 25(19.8%); with A. galli
being the most prevalent. The small intestine, large intestine and the caecum of the chicken
were particularly infected. Mixed infections (A. galli and S. brumpti) were seen in female
broilers and old layers (H. gallinarum and A. galli); as male broilers had only single infection
with egg of A. galli. The parasites showed some degree of preference for female chickens as the
difference in the infection rate was significant between the sexes (P<0.05), although the type
of breed had no impact on the rate of the infestation (P>0.05). Veterinary extension officers
should educate farmers about gastrointestinal parasites, focusing on local farmers'
management practices to protect poultry health and promote public health.
Keywords: Chicken, gastrointestinal infestation, helminthes, nematode, prevalence