| Heterakis gallinarum | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Nematoda |
| Class: | Chromadorea |
| Order: | Ascaridida |
| Family: | Heterakidae |
| Genus: | Heterakis |
| Species: | H. gallinarum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Heterakis gallinarum Schrank, 1788
| |
| Synonyms | |
|
Heterakis gallinae | |
Heterakis gallinarum is a nematode parasite that lives in the cecum of some galliform birds, particularly in ground feeders such as domestic chickens and turkeys. It causes infection that is mildly pathogenic. However, it often carries a protozoan parasite Histomonas meleagridis which causes of histomoniasis (blackhead disease).[1][2] Transmission of H. meleagridis is through the H. gallinarum egg.[3] H. gallinarum is about 1–2 cm in length with a sharply pointed tail and a preanal sucker. The parasite is a diecious species with marked sexual dimorphism. Males are smaller and shorter, measuring around 9 mm in length, with a unique bent tail. Females are stouter and longer, measuring roughly 13 mm in length, with a straight tail end.[4]
- ^ Lund EE, Chute AM, Wilkins GC (1975). "The wild turkey as a host for Heterakis gallinarum and Histomonas meleagridis". Journal of Wildlife Diseases. 11 (3): 376–381. doi:10.7589/0090-3558-11.3.376. PMID 1171270. S2CID 45359310.
- ^ Merck Veterinary Manual (see table)
- ^ Schmidt GD & Roberts LS (2005). Foundations of Parasitology, 7th ed. The McGraw Hill Companies Inc., New York, New York, p. 441. ISBN 978-0-07-111271-0
- ^ Permin A & Hansen JW (1998). The Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Control of Poultry Parasites. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy, pp. 29–30. ISBN 92-5-104215-2