A Rare Report of Ectoparasites in Backyard Poultry in Jammu Region: Prevalence Study and Economic Importance

Backyard poultry farming plays an important role in rural people by providing eggs, meat and employment. The production of backyard poultry is generally affected by ecto and endo-parasites due to their free range feeding habit and housing practices. The present study was designed to study the prevalence of ectoparasites in back yard poultry in Jammu region of India during October 2010 to September 2011. The results showed that out of 710 birds examined, 373 (52.53%) were found infested with different ectoparasites. The highest prevalence was recorded for Menopon gallinae (16.05%) followed by Menacanthus stramineus (12.95%), Goniocotes gallinae (9.58%), Goniodes gigas (5.91%), Lipeurus caponis (2.95%), Argas persicus (3.38%) and Dermanyssus gallinae (1.69%). Seasonal prevalence indicated, Menopon gallinae was predominant in all seasons except in pre monsoon, highest during winter and lowest during post monsoon. While Menacanthus stramineus had the highest prevalence during pre monsoon, Argas persicus during monsoon and Dermanyssus gallinae had the lowest prevalence during all the seasons. The study is first in its nature from Jammu, the north Indian region and will provide valuable information on ectoparasites in back yard poultry. However, further investigation is required in this regard so as to reduce the production losses by ectoparasites.