Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Yaks (Bos Grunniens) in Boroghil and Shandur National Parks, Chitral, Northern Pakistan

Abstract

This research study focused on determining the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in yaks in the main high-altitude pastures declared as national parks, i.e., Boroghil and Shandur, in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.  Data on gastrointestinal parasite infections in yaks (Bos grunniens) have not been reported in the mentioned locations in northern Pakistan. Fecal fresh samples total n=200 from each side n=100 were collected in the both seasons summer and winter. A flotation-sedimentation technique was applied to isolate the parasites, and formalin-ether sedimentation was used to detect trematode eggs, while the Sheather’s sugar solution technique was used to diagnose protozoan oocysts and nematode eggs. McMaster slide chamber was used for Quantitative estimation of parasites eggs counting, Parasites were identified based on their morphological shape, structure and specific characteristics of oocysts  larvae and eggs,. The prevalence status overall of gastrointestinal parasites was 40.0% (40/100) in Shandur and 36.0% (36/100) in Boroghil, with no major difference between sites (p>0.05).  The parasites species at both locations, Trichostrongylus spp. was the mainly common nematode were detected in 32.5% (32/100) of yaks in Shandur and 27.8% (27/100) in Boroghil. Additional known parasites included Moniezia spp (cestodes) and Eimeria spp (protozoa), although at lower prevalence rates (<10%). The infection rate of Age and sex groups wise (p > 0.05) no differences were observed. Though, a strong positive involvement was identified between infection status and poor body condition (emaciation) in both valleys (p < 0.001), signifying a clinically related impact on host health. This study first time provide the baseline data on the prevalence of the gastrointestinal parasitic infection in the domesticated yaks from the both regions as declared national parks i-e Boroghil and Shandur ecologically diverse high-altitude grazing systems.  These finding have broader impact for the livestock keeping and wildlife conservation plan  in the Hindu Kush, Karakoram–Himalayan region. Particularly the need for targeted mass deworming enhanced management practices, rotational grazing and nutritional support. The Yak production losses factors identified and to improve the health status of yak  in climate-sensitive pastoral systems.