Sub Clinical parasitism in farmed red deer |
|
Funding Body | AgResearch |
Total Contract Value | $22,000 |
Start Date | January 2009 |
End Date |
July 2010 |
Principal Investigator |
Dr Marion Johnson |
Staff Involved |
Dr Marion Johnson |
Parasitic infections are a major constraint on animal production systems worldwide.
In New Zealand, infection with lungworms (Dictyocaulus spp.) has long been acknowledged as being one of the primary health problems for the venison industry.
Recent studies have also indicated the increasing role infection by gastro-intestinal nematodes plays in depressing weight gains.
The aims of the study are threefold:
Although parasites can be controlled by the use of chemical anthelminthics, resistance to them is spreading rapidly, reducing their efficacy.
New Zealand venison is marketed as a natural product and sold primarily into Western Europe, so it is sensible to reduce its use.
There are approximately 1.7 million deer, and 90% of the production is exported, so it is vital to develop sustainable, sensible parasite management programmes to support the industry.