Helminth fauna of camels under pasture conditions

The aim of this study was to investigate the composition and intensity of helminthiasis, in particular the detection of cestodes, in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) kept on pasture. A total of 68 faecal samples (52 from adult animals and 16 from young camels) were examined using the Fülleborn flotation method and light microscopy. Overall, 63.2% (95% CI: 50.7-74.6) of the camels were infected with Eimeria spp., 67.6% (95% CI: 55.2-78.5) with Strongyloides spp. and 60.3% (95% CI: 47.7-72.0) with Trichostrongylidae spp., with no significant differences between these dominant taxa (p < 0.0001). Infections with Nematodirus spp. (16.2%, 95% CI: 8.4-27.1) and Trichuris sp. (4.4%, 95% CI: 0.9-12.3) were less common but still present. The highest mean intensity was observed for Eimeria spp. (7.1 ± 0.81 eggs per gram, EPG), followed by Strongyloides spp. (6.6 ± 1.12 EPG) and Nematodirus spp. (5.5 ± 0.50 EPG), while Trichostrongylidae sp. (3.5 ± 0.50 EPG) and Trichuris sp. (1.3 ± 0.47 EPG) showed lower values. These results confirm the high prevalence and significant intensity of gastrointestinal parasite infestation in camels, reflecting the constant risk of reinfestation in pastoral conditions. The results highlight the need for regular diagnostic monitoring, deworming programs and improved management practices to reduce parasite load and prevent economic losses in the camel industry.