Gasterophilus in Horses from Romania: Diversity and Prevalence
Author Information
Author(s): Rabei Ș. O., Cârstolovean A. S., Culda C. A., Mihalca A. D.
Primary Institution: University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca
Hypothesis
What is the current diversity, prevalence, and seasonal dynamics of Gasterophilus spp. in slaughtered horses from Romania?
Conclusion
Gasterophilus infection is widespread in Romania, affecting more than half of the examined horses.
Supporting Evidence
- 53.6% of the examined horses were infected with Gasterophilus spp.
- Two species were identified: G. intestinalis (52.0% prevalence) and G. nasalis (14.0% prevalence).
- Coinfection occurred in 12.4% of the horses.
- A total of 9759 larvae were collected from the horses.
Takeaway
This study found that many horses in Romania have a type of parasite called Gasterophilus, which can make them sick.
Methodology
The study involved examining the digestive systems of 394 horses from three abattoirs in Romania over a year, collecting and identifying Gasterophilus larvae.
Limitations
The study did not assess clinical signs of infection in horses.
Participant Demographics
The horse population included 216 females and 176 males, aged between 5 and 472 months, with 12 color variants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
CI 95% 48.6–58.5%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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