Combating ectoparasites in Togolese laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus): Exploring diversity, prevalence and environmental determinant

Abstract Ectoparasites are pests of animals and poultry in particular. The presence of ectoparasites in birds affects their productivity and facilitates the transmission of pathogenic agents. This study aimed to explore the diversity of ectoparasites in laying hens, evaluate their prevalence, and analyse the environmental factors promoting the proliferation of ectoparasites. The study was conducted in three prefectures of the Maritime Region of Togo. It covered ninety (90) modern laying hen farms. A total of 576 laying hens were randomly sampled in the three prefectures. Ectoparasites were collected by freezing, direct ectoparasite sampling, leg scratching, and the weight of infested and non-infested birds. Ten (10) species of ectoparasites were identified, with an average infestation rate of 73.26%. The prevalence of acarid (59.54%) and louse (37.21%) parasitism was significantly higher (P<0.0001) than the prevalence of flea (03.25%) parasitism. The variation in the prevalence rate of each ectoparasite species was significantly (P<0.0001) related to the locality. Dermanyssus gallinae and Menacanthus stamineus were the most prevalent species, with 100% and 70.23% prevalence rates, respectively. The duration of brood renewal was the most important factor (P<0.0001) favors the proliferation of ectoparasites. Laying hens are more infested by Dermanyssus gallinae and Menacanthus stamineus, and the duration of brood renewal is the most important factor in the proliferation of ectoparasites. Most ectoparasites proliferate when the temperature in poultry houses is above 28°C and the humidity is above 47%. To effectively combat the adverse effects of these ectoparasites, research should focus on the vector-borne diseases they transmit to poultry.