Ectoparasite Arthropods of the Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) in the Northwest of Benin

Ectoparasite arthropods of extensively reared turkeys were studied from August 2003 to March 2004 in Donga Department (Northwest Benin). Out of 657 sampled and examined birds, 524 were parasite carriers, i.e. the overall infestation rate was 79.8%. Thirteen species were identified: Cnemidocoptes mutans, Epidermoptes bilobatus, Dermanyssus gallinae, Hyalomma rufipes, Amblyomma variegatum, Argas persicus and Haemaphysalis hoodi as acarids; Menopon gallinae, Menacanthus stramineus, Lipeurus caponis, Goniodes meleagridis, Goniocotes gallinae and Echidnophaga gallinacea as insects. Insect parasitism was significantly higher than acarid parasitism (p < 0.05). Acarids were present on all bird body parts, while insects were found on feathers as well as body. The infestation rate was higher during the humid period of the study (p < 0.05). Parasitism prevalence significantly increased with birds’ age (p < 0.05). The highest infestation rate was caused by Menacanthus stramineus. This status, due to the traditional way of rearing turkeys in the studied area, suggests a control strategy which should associate treatment of the birds with parasiticide drugs, habitat hygiene and improved feeding.