Camel gastrointestinal parasites in southern Algeria

Abstract

This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasites in camels (Camelus dromaderius) in the Laghouat region (southern Algeria). The study was carried out over a 5-month period on a total of 100 dromedaries. Dung samples were analysed using different methods such as flotation, sedimentation, and Ziehel-Neelsen staining for research of the cryptosporidiosis. Data showed an overall infestation rate of 78%, with the presence of the following parasites: Cryptosporidium spp. (60%), Nematodes: Nematodirus spp. (23%), Strongyloides spp. (4%), Marshallagia spp. (2%), and Cooperia spp. (3%), different protozoaires: Eimeria spp. (20%), Neobalantidium spp. (2%), and Balantidium coli, cestodes (6%), Moniezia sp. (3%), Multiceps sp. (2%), Diphillobothrium sp. (1%), and trematodes: Fasciola hépatica (4%) and Paramphistomum spp. (1%). The results showed a significant influence of study site on the parasitic infestation rate (P=0.039). Other factors (sex, age and clinical aspect) had no significant influence. To conclude, gastrointestinal parasites are a major problem of indigenous camels under traditional husbandry. Therefore, parasite control programmes are recommended to increase the productivity of this useful animal.