Eimeriosis in bactrian and dromedary camels in the Miandoab region, Iran

An investigatin into eimeriosis of camels was carried out in two camel-raising areas of Miandoab region, Iran, to determine the frequency and diversity of Eimeria species. Bactrian camels (n=85) and dromedary camels (n=40) which were from one to four years old were subjected to examination. Fecal samples were collected and the flotation technique was carried out to demonstrate the presence of oocysts and sporulation of oocysts. The overall prevalence was 12.8%. Five Eimeria species were identified in both camels: the highest rate belonged to the E. bactriani (42.2%), followed by E. rajasthani (only in dromedary camels, 26.7%), E. pellerdyi (only in bactrian camels, 15.6%), E. cameli (11.1%) and E. dromedarii (4.4.%). All 12.8% of infected camels had mixed infections with at least three species. Feces consistency and infection intensity had a significant correlation with age (P<0.01). The sex and age of the camels had a significant effect on prevalence (P<0.01). These findings may be useful to evaluate the infection potential when considering control programs, specially for young camels