The yearly pattern of Ashworthius sidemi Schulz, 1933 infection in cervids: a 10-year study in southern Poland and northern Slovakia
Abstract
Introduction
The widespread distribution of the blood-sucking parasitic species Ashworthius sidemi among cervids highlights the need for increased understanding of how to prevent its transmission to livestock. Such knowledge should include detailed data on its life cycle, which may provide insights into the pattern of invasion and guide control measures.
Material and Methods
Adult and subadult specimens of A. sidemi were obtained by necropsy examinations of 108 naturally infected cervids between 2011 and 2021. The month of host collection was used to divide the obtained data into two periods of the year: warm (May to October) and cold (November to March). The differences in the overall mean intensity of infection within a particular month and between periods were statistically analysed. Molecular analyses were conducted to confirm species identification.
Results
A total of 16,574 specimens were found. The mean intensity of infection for adults and for subadults differed significantly, both within a particular month and between the two periods of the year (P-value < 0.01). Correspondence analysis revealed two distinct groups based on the month of collection from the host and the increased occurrence of adults and/or subadults in the abomasum. The occurrence of adult specimens was the greatest during the warm periods of the year, with their first appearance recorded in May.
Conclusion
Although infection intensity remains relatively stable throughout the year, eggs shedding may be influenced by the occurrence of adults, what depends on the period of the year.
© 2026 Jerzy Kowal, Anna Wyrobisz-Papiewska, Weronika Rynkiewicz, Marek Wajdzik, Paweł Nosal, published by National Veterinary Research Institute in Pulawy
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.