Asamrew Adino*, Asegid Girma and Nego Hurma
Strongylosis is one of the most important internal parasitic diseases of equines caused by nematodes of strongylidae family affecting more than 80% equines in the world. The horse is host to a great number of gastrointestinal parasite species, of which nematodes of the family Strongylidae, commonly called strongyle nematodes or strongyles, are the most important. These parasites are ubiquitous and live as adults in the large intestine of equids. The main characteristic feature of strongyle nematodesis a well-developed buccal capsule, the shape and size of which are important for species identification. Strongyle nematodes of equids (horse, donkey, zebra) are classified into the subfamilies Strongylinae and Cyathostominae, sometimes categorized as large and small strongyles, respectively. Strongylus vulgaris is one of the large strongly and the most prevalent and pathogenic parasites of equines. Large strongyles show major pathogenesis that is encompasses verminous arteritis, damage of visceral organs, embolism or thrombosis leading to death and is mainly attributed to migrating larvae of parasites. The larvae of Strongylus species are causes to large nodules in the wall of caecum and colon with a considerable hemorrhage and the nodules become rupture and release the worm into the lumen of the intestine. In the heavy burdens bleeding can occur and leads to the death of the animals. Inspite of substantial improvements in understanding the life cycle of strongylus and adopting latest diagnostic techniques and implementing the most modern treatment and control measures, the disease is still prevalent and could not be eradicated from any part of the world. The current strategy engaged in seasonal use of anthelmintics is the key to arrest the disease and overcome anthelmintic resistance. Using a mixed grazing system and removal of all horse feces from the fields twice weekly is highly effective for the control of strongyles.
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