Gasterophilus intestinalis infections in horses in Belgium.
Over a period of one year, from December 1995 to November 1996, larvae of Gasterophilus intestinalis were found in 193 horse stomachs (58%) of 330 that were examined in two Belgian slaughter houses. When August is excluded, 62% of the stomachs had bot larvae. No other Gasterophilus species were identified. The monthly prevalence ranged from 9% in August to 75% in November and December. The mean intensity of bot larvae varied from 8 in August to 29 in March, and the majority of the horses (67%) harboured less than 50 larvae. Prevalences and intensities were not affected by age, but mares were more frequently infected than stallions and geldings (P < 0.014). The mean size of the lesions increased from 1 cm2 to 17 cm2. The majority of the larvae were localised near the margo plicatus.
Agneessens
J
J
Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Gent, Merelbeke, Belgium. joost.agneessens@rug.ac.be
Engelen
S
S
Debever
P
P
Vercruysse
J
J
D000818:Animals; D001530:Belgium / Q000453:epidemiology; D004175:Diptera / Q000254:growth & development; D005260:Female; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000469:parasitology; D006736:Horses; D007814:Larva / Q000254:growth & development; D008297:Male; D010273:Parasitic Diseases, Animal / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000469:parasitology; D015995:Prevalence; D012621:Seasons; D013270:Stomach / Q000469:parasitology / Q000473:pathology; D013272:Stomach Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000469:parasitology / Q000662:veterinary*