Molecular tools for detection of gastro-intestinal parasites and anthelmintic resistance in sheep

Background

Swedish lamb production is climate friendly since it is largely pasture based. Furthermore, the fact that lambs are raised on pasture promotes biodiversity, but the animals are also exposed to pasture borne parasites. Deworming of sheep is usually inevitable to avoid illness and reduced growth due to the exposure to gastrointestinal parasites. Simultaneously, we have seen that resistant parasites have been accidently introduced into the country through animal imports from abroad. This could probably have been prevented if there had been better diagnostic tools around.

Aim

The aim of the project is to develop molecular tests that can be used for species identification and the study of parasite resistance. By improving the faecal examination techniques in relation to those that are used today, it will provide opportunity to find out about if the lack of treatment efficacy is linked to drug resistance. This will eventually benefit the welfare and productivity of Swedish lamb production.

Collaborations

• Katarina Gustafsson (Farm & Animal Health)
• Bitte Ljungström (Vidilab)