ECTOPARASITES OF SOME LIVESTOCK OF PORT HARCOURT EKERETTE ET AL

Domestic animal production contributes to the economic growth and well-being of families in developing countries but can be hampered by ecto-parasites depending on the severity of infestation. This research was conducted to investigate ecto-parasite species infesting domestic animals in Port Harcourt metropolis, Nigeria. African dwarf goats (Capra hircus), Black Headed Dorper sheep (Ovis aries) and Free-range birds (Gallus gallus domesticus) were subjected to examination in this research. The birds were obtained from Oyigbo while the goats and sheep were kept at the Animal Farm of the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. The animals were examined between October and December, 2021 using coat-brushing techniques on a white background. The fall-outs were stored in 70% ethanol and examined for parasites using standard methods while parasite identification was accomplished with appropriate keys. Parasite prevalence was computed using standard formula. Two ecto-parasites were isolated from the goats and sheep: the African goat louse, Linognathus africanus, infested all goats (100%) and one sheep (16.7%), while the scabies mite, Sarcoptes scabei, infested one sheep (16.7%). Four ecto-parasite species were isolated from the birds: Dermatophagoides sp., Goniocotes gallinae, Ornithonyssus bursa and Dermanyssus gallinae at a prevalence of 100%, 40%, 60% and 20%, respectively. Domesticated animals (goats, sheep and birds) within Port-Harcourt metropolis are infested by diverse ecto-parasitic species, which could affect growth and economic productivity of these animals. Agricultural extension services are required to assist farmers in the detection, control and treatment of these arthropod parasites.