Heterakis spp - birds Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is the species name for the chicken parasite Heterakis?
H. gallinarum
H. gallinarum is specifically associated with chickens.
Which species of Heterakis is found in ducks and geese?
H. dispar
H. dispar is known to affect ducks and geese.
What is the species of Heterakis that affects pheasants and wild birds?
H. isolonche
H. isolonche is associated with pheasants and various wild birds.
What is the definitive host (DH) for Heterakis?
Chicken, turkey, pigeon, pheasant, wild galliforms
These birds serve as definitive hosts for Heterakis species.
What is the primary paratenic host (PH) for Heterakis?
Earthworm
Earthworms act as paratenic hosts for Heterakis.
What disease is caused by the protozoan Histomonas meleagridis, which is vectored by Heterakis?
Black-head disease
Black-head disease primarily affects turkeys.
Describe the life cycle of Heterakis.
Unembryonated eggs with faeces → infective L3 ingested (egg/PH) → released in gut’s lumen → migrate to lumen of cecum and matures to adults. NO MIGRATION!
PP: 3-4 weeks
The life cycle does not involve migration beyond the cecum.
What is the prepatent period (PP) for Heterakis?
3 – 4 weeks
This is the time taken for Heterakis to develop before it can be detected.
What are some clinical signs of Heterakis infection in poultry?
- Digestive disorder
- Hemorrhages
- Inappetence
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Lagging in growth
- Reduced egg production
These signs indicate a severe pathogenic effect on poultry.
Pathogenesis of Heterakis infections?
Very pathogenic for poultry – inflammation and thickening of the cecum.
Major problems: vector for H. meleagridis which:
- Remain viable eggs
- Destruction of gut wall & liver tissues
These issues highlight the significant health risks posed by Heterakis.
Where is Heterakis found geographically?
Worldwide
Heterakis is a global concern affecting various poultry species.
