Parasitological survey to address major risk factors threatening alpacas in Andean extensive farms (Arequipa, Peru)

Abstract

Extensive alpaca farming in the Colca Valley (Arequipa, Peru) is the most important resource for farmers who live in this remote area of the country. Grazing is the major available source of food, whereas forage production and supply are limited. Food availability is low during the dry season predisposing animals to parasitic diseases and reproduction failure. In this study, we looked into gaining an overview about flock health management and nutritional and parasitological status of different age groups in medium-large alpaca farms at the beginning of the dry season. A total of 20 herds were included in the survey and 288 fecal samples were collected and analyzed to determine prevalence and oocysts/eggs output level of the most common gastro-intestinal parasites that affect alpacas. Body condition scoring (BCS), was used to determine the nutritional status of sampled animals, belonging to different physiological classes (i.e. crias, tuis, lactating females, non-lactating females, males). Coccidiosis was the parasitic disease with the highest prevalence and output level. It was the most relevant parasitic disease in all classes and especially in young pre-breeding animals. Higher burdens were found in subjects with lower BCS. More specifically, the farms with higher cria mortality rates showed also a tendency to have higher prevalence values of Eimeria macusaniensis . An improved management of nutritional aspects and parasite control, in particular regarding the weaning phase, is expected to enhance the farming reproductive and productive performances of the alpacas in this region.

Body condition scoring in alpacas (Vicugna pacos) and llamas (Lama glama) – a scoping review

“…So far, there are few data available on the relationship between BCS and health in SACs. Common causes of a low BCS in SACs are chronic infectious diseases, endoparasites, dental problems, qualitatively or quantitatively too poor nutrient supply, or an incorrect animal-food ratio (Van Saun 2009a , b ; Baumgartner et al 2018 ; Frezzato et al 2020 ). However, not every animal that suffers from one of these conditions necessarily has a lowered BCS.…”

Relationships between Body Condition Score (BCS), FAMACHA©-Score and Haematological Parameters in Alpacas (Vicugna pacos), and Llamas (Lama glama) Presented at the Veterinary Clinic

“…Causes for a bad nutritional status in SAC include management problems such as a restricted animal/feeding place ratio, insufficient nutrient supply, infestation with endoparasites, tooth problems, or any other chronical disease [ 4 , 17 , 18 , 19 ]. To date, there are several descriptions about the assessment of BCS in SAC, and there is also some information available about the relationship between BCS and health in llamas and alpacas [ 11 , 19 , 20 ]. However, so far, there is a lack of data concerning the BCS of SAC presented in the veterinary clinic.…”

Gastrointestinal parasite diversity of South American camelids (Artiodactyla: Camelidae): First review throughout the native range of distribution

“… Arequipa 288 NR Eimeria spp . (60.4) Rectal samples Scientific research Frezzato et al (2020) Eimeria macusaniensis (18.8) Trichuris spp . (5.6) Capillaria spp .…”