Classes of livestock parasites - SS3 Agriculture Lesson Note

 Livestock parasites can lead to various health issues, including weight loss, reduced milk or meat production, decreased reproductive success, and in severe cases, they can be life-threatening. There are two main classes of livestock parasites:

Ectoparasites: Ectoparasites are external parasites that live on the outside of the host's body. They include:

a. Ticks: These blood-feeding arachnids attach to the skin of livestock and can transmit diseases like Lyme disease or anaplasmosis.

b. Lice: These small insects infest the hair or feathers of livestock, causing itching, irritation, and hair loss.

c. Mites: Mites are microscopic arachnids that burrow into the skin, causing conditions like mange, scabies, or ear mites.

d. Fleas: Fleas can affect certain livestock, primarily in warmer regions, causing discomfort and itching.

e. Flies: Various fly species, such as horn flies or stable flies, bite and irritate livestock, potentially transmitting diseases and leading to reduced weight gain.

Endoparasites: Endoparasites are internal parasites that live inside the host's body. They include:

a. Worms (Helminths): Worms like roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes inhabit the digestive system or other organs of livestock, disrupting digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health.

b. Protozoa: Protozoa are single-celled parasites that can infect the digestive tract and cause diseases like coccidiosis or cryptosporidiosis in livestock.

c. Internal Flies (Bot Flies): These flies lay their eggs internally in livestock, and the larvae can migrate through various tissues, causing damage and discomfort.