Veterinary University Training and Research Centre, Gundalapatti, Dharmapuri - 636 703, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Corresponding address: Central University Laboratory, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai - 600 051.
Screening of 1112 faecal samples from individual sheep belonging to Mecheri, Trichy Black and Mandya breeds revealed the prevalence of 26.7 per cent of helminthic infection during August 2000 to August 2001. The predominance of strongylid nematodes was observed (16.4%), followed by Moniezia sp. (3.1%), amphistomes (2.9%) and mixed infections (1.3%), eomprising of amphistomes and strongyles. Among the three breeds examined, Mecheri was more susceptible to helminthic infections (28.5%), prevalence was comparatively high during winter (27.9%) and Northeast (27.5%) monsoons. Hoggets were more (27.3%) prone to the helminthic infection and Harer area had highest percentage of infected animals (38.8%).
