Coccidiosis among Local and Exotic Breed of Chickens Reared in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November, 2022 with the aimed of determining the prevalence and species of Eimeria in both local and exotic breeds on chickens reared as well as the associated risk factors within Biu Local Government Area, Borno State. Three hundred and eighty-four (384) feacal samples were collected and examined using centrifugal flotation techniques for coccidian oocysts. Chi-square and simple percentage were used to analyze the data and p<0.05 to determine the level of significance. An overall prevalence of 238(62.0%) was observed. Biu town had the highest prevalence rate of 119(73.9%) followed by Buratai, 73(50.0%) and then Miringa, 46(59.7%). The prevalence rate was high in young chicken groups (1-4 weeks) 80.0% followed by (5-15 weeks) 64.0% and (16 and > weeks) 49.2% as well as higher in female chickens 64.9% than males 57.1%. The difference in prevalence rate between locations, age groups and sexes of the chickens were not statistically significant (p<0.05). Intensively managed farms had the highest prevalence rate 70.8% than extensive managed farm 45.5% and high prevalence rate was observed in chickens with bad body condition 78.3% than chicken with good body condition 50.7%. Exotic breeds had highest prevalence rate 70.0% than local breeds 46.8%. The difference in prevalence rate based on management systems, body condition and breed of the chickens were statistically significant (p>0.05). Six different species of Eimeria was encountered Eimeria mitis had the highest prevalence rate of 65(24.6%) followed by Eimeria praecox 52(19.7%), Eimeria tenella 42(15.9%), Eimeria necatrix 31(11.7%), Eimeria maxima 31(11.7%) and Eimeria acervulina had the least of 14(5.3%). Coccidiosis is endemic in the study area. Therefore, it is recommended that good management system, routine sanitations and hygiene practices, use of anti-coccidial drugs regularly and vaccinations as well as creating awareness among farmers on the effect of Coccidiosis on their chickens and their welfare will help in achieving a significant development on their productivity in the study area.