Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep and Cattle: Biology and Control [Hardcover]

A unique resource for all those interested in the impact of worms on livestock, the anthelmintics used to get rid of them and the emerging problem of anthelmintic resistance.? This book provides an over-arching view of past, present and suggested future strategies for control of gastrointestinal nematode parasites in sheep and cattle.

The book begins with descriptions of the biology of gastrointestinal nematodes, the harm they cause to the host and their economic impact.? The main body of the book deals with the control of worms, focusing on the use of anthelmintic drenches. The relationship between drenching practices and the development of drug resistance is discussed, as well as resistance management. The authors also break new ground by discussing alternative options for worm control, including: nutritional interventions, biological control, breeding for desirable genetics and artificially improving immunity to infection. They also offer useful recommendations for program development.

Foreword ix

Preface xi

Acknowledgements xiii

1 Nematode parasites 1

The nematodes 1

The important nematode genera and species parasitizing ruminant livestock 2

Abomasal genera 3

Small intestinal genera 4

Large intestinal genera 6

Nematode evolution 6

The transition to parasitism 8

Nematode biology 9

Nematode genetics 14

Nematode physiology 15

The dauer larva 17

Anhydrobiosis 17

The nematode life cycle 18

Niches occupied by parasitic nematodes within the vertebrate host 23

The lifespan of parasitic nematodes 26

2 Pathophysiology of nematode infections 33

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