Isolation and Identification of Eimeria spp. From Domestic Pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Basrah, Iraq

Coccidiosis is a widespread disease among pigeons worldwide, resulting in significant economic losses due to mortality, morbidity, and reduced feed efficiency. The present study aimed to isolate a field strain of Eimeria spp. in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Basra, Iraq. To ensure precise species identification, light microscopy techniques were combined with the advanced molecular method of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sixty fresh fecal samples were collected from pigeon lofts, ensuring minimal environmental disturbance and contamination. The flotation method was employed to analyze fecal samples. The present results indicated that 36 out of 60 samples contained coccidian oocysts, which represented an overall prevalence of 60%. The PCR technique was employed to amplify the 18S rRNA genes, which were subsequently utilized for sample detection. Six representative sequences were selected, registered, and deposited in the NCBI database (PV459631.1, PV459632.1, PV459633.1, PV459634.1, PV459635.1, and PV459636.1). The present findings were validated through molecular analysis, and six representative gene sequences were submitted to the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The current study revealed a high prevalence of coccidiosis, affecting 60% of domestic pigeons in Basra, highlighting its impact on their health. Moreover, this is the first report of Eimeria chalcoptereae in pigeons from Basra, Iraq.