Microsoft Word - 016_26378ny080315_93_97.doc

Abstract: A study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of helminth parasites of Helmeted Guinea fowls slaughtered in Maiduguri Monday market. A total of 100 birds comprising 46 males and 54 females were examined and their gastro -intestinal tracts collected and examined at post-mortem for helminth parasites. An overall prevalence of 88% representing 63% cestode and 25% nematode infection rates were recorded (P<0.05). Females had a significantly (P<0.05) higher infection rates (79.6%) compared with males (60.9%). Females harboured more helminth parasites compared with the males. Three species each for cestodes and nematodes were isolated and identified. Of these, Choanotaenia infundibulum had the highest prevalence (50%) in female birds and Raillietina echinobothrida (39.1%) in males followed by Raillietina tetragona with 34.8% and 31.5% in male and female birds respectively. While Heterakis gallinarum recorded the highest infection rate in both males (13%) and female birds (20.4%). Other nematodes encountered included: Ascaridia galli and Subulura brompti with infection rates 2.2% and 13% and 13% and 14.8% in male and female birds respectively. These findings indicated that helminthiasis is prevalent in Guinea fowls and this could hinder their production and productivity in Maiduguri. Proper management practices are therefore recommended to remedy helminth infection in these birds