Abstract
Background: Coccidiosis is caused by Eimeria resulting to diarrhea and weight loss in rabbits. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Eimeria species in local rabbits in Baghdad /Iraq. Methods: A total of 294 fecal samples were obtained from rabbits in local marketplaces and farms between November 2021 to October 2022. Data were recorded regarding the sex, age, and location of rabbits. The samples were transported to the Protozoology Laboratory /College of Veterinary Medicine/ Baghdad University, analyzing direct wet smear, and flotation techniques to determine the presence of coccidia. Results: The results found a 42.17% (124/294) infection rate of Eimeria species with highest rate observed in March (16.1%), and the lowest in October (1.6%). Male rabbits had a slightly higher incidence (51%) than females (49 %). Geographically, the highest rate was in Suq Alghazil and the lowest in AlGerma. Interestingly, rabbits under six months of age were more susceptible to Eimeria infection. Conclusion: This study showed presence of six species of Eimeria included: E. intestinalis, E. perforans, E. magna, E. exigua, E. stiedai, and E. media. Further research is needed to explore novel Eimeria species using nucleic acid implications and their relevance for human and animal health.
Keywords: Eimeria, Rabbits, Microscopic examination, Baghdad, Iraq