Editor: Tanmoy Rana

Handbook of Poultry Parasites

eBook: US $89 Special Offer (PDF + Printed Copy): US $161
Printed Copy: US $116
Library License: US $356
ISBN: 979-8-89881-124-2 (Print)
ISBN: 979-8-89881-123-5 (Online)
Year of Publication: 2025
DOI: 10.2174/97988988112351250101

Introduction

Handbook of Poultry Parasites offers critical insights into the etiology, pathology, diagnosis, and prevention of parasitic diseases affecting poultry. With poultry production being a cornerstone of global food security, understanding the impact of parasites is essential for sustaining flock health, productivity, and economic viability. This volume brings together expert contributions that systematically examine the biology, clinical manifestations, and control of parasites in poultry, making it an indispensable reference for students, researchers, and professionals in veterinary and animal sciences.

The book begins with general aspects of poultry parasitology, covering seasonal disease dynamics, principles of parasitism, pathological and immunological responses, diagnostic methodologies, and therapeutic strategies, including vaccines, drug resistance, and One Health approaches. The second section focuses on organ- and species-specific parasitic diseases, addressing infections caused by flukes, roundworms, tapeworms, protozoa, ticks, fleas, mites, and lice. Each chapter emphasizes disease mechanisms, clinical signs, and effective preventive and treatment measures.

Key Features:

  • - Examines principles of parasitism, immunopathology, and disease pathogenesis in poultry
  • - Explores diagnostic approaches, therapeutic strategies, and the role of vaccines in parasite control
  • - Evaluates organ-specific parasitic infections with detailed clinical and pathological insights
  • - Addresses challenges of drug resistance and highlights sustainable management strategies
  • - Features contributions by experts offering global perspectives on poultry parasitology


Readership:

A vital resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students, veterinary professionals, researchers, and poultry industry stakeholders.

Foreword

Poultry production is one of the most significant sectors in the global agricultural economy, providing an essential source of protein through meat and eggs. As the demand for poultry products continues to grow, so does the need to understand and address the challenges that threaten the health and productivity of poultry flocks. Among these challenges, parasitic infections stand out as a persistent and pervasive problem that affects poultry worldwide, with substantial impacts on animal welfare, food safety, and economic sustainability.

The “Handbook of Poultry Parasites” is an indispensable resource that addresses this critical issue with clarity, depth, and scientific rigor. This book provides comprehensive insights into the various parasites that infect poultry, including their biology, epidemiology, diagnosis, control, and management. It covers a wide range of parasites, from protozoa and helminths to ectoparasites, each of which poses unique threats to poultry health.

What sets this handbook apart is its balanced approach, combining foundational knowledge with practical applications. It serves not only as a reference for veterinarians, poultry health specialists, and researchers but also as a practical guide for poultry producers and farm managers. The book emphasizes integrated pest management strategies, highlighting the importance of prevention, monitoring, and judicious use of treatments to minimize the impact of parasites while reducing the risk of resistance.

In an era marked by increasing concerns over antimicrobial resistance, food safety, and sustainable agriculture, this handbook is timely and relevant. It provides the tools and knowledge needed to develop effective, sustainable, and science-based strategies for managing parasites in poultry, ensuring that poultry production remains both profitable and responsible.

I commend the authors and contributors for their dedication to this project and for their valuable contributions to the field of poultry health. This handbook is a testament to their expertise and commitment to advancing our understanding of parasitic infections in poultry and their management.

I am confident that this book will become a vital reference for all those involved in poultry health and production. It will undoubtedly contribute to improving poultry welfare, enhancing productivity, and ensuring the sustainability of poultry farming around the world.

Peter Ibrahim Rekwot
National Animal Production Research Institute
Ahmadu Bello University
Zaria, Kaduna State
Nigeria