INVESTIGATION OF SCHISTOSOMA SPECIES IN SLAUGHTERED CATTLE IN AKUNGBA-AKOKO ABATTIOR

ABSTRACT Cattle have a wide distribution and form an integral part of the livestock industry in Nigeria. They are reared in most parts of the country as a major source of animal protein, mainly beef, and in some cases milk production. The study aimed to examine the prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma species found in slaughtered cattle in Akungba Akoko, Ondo State. Out of 100 cattle examined, comprising 54 males and 46 females, the overall prevalence of infection was 0.07%. Female cattle exhibited a significantly higher infection rate (13.0%) than males (1.9%) (P < 0.05). Age-specific analysis showed the highest prevalence at age 4 (11.1%), followed by age 5 (6.9%), with no infection recorded at age 6. However, differences across age groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Among the breeds studied, Red Fulani had the highest infection prevalence (11.1%), but White Fulani accounted for the largest number of infected cattle. Breed-related differences were also not statistically significant. Geographical distribution revead that cattle from Kwara had the highest frequency of infection (33.3%), while cattle from Ondo showed a 20.0% prevalence, with the lowest infection observed in cattle from Kano (5.9%). Infection intensity varied by gender, with female cattle yielding a mean worm burden of 3.0, while male cattle had a mean of 1.0. In terms of breed, White Fulani had the highest intensity (3.0), followed by Red Fulani (1.0), while Red Bororo showed no infection. Age group 4 had the highest worm burden (3.0), followed by age 5 (2.7), and none in age 6. Cattle from Kano recorded the highest mean intensity (4.0) from a single infected animal. These results suggest that female gender, the White Fulani breed, younger age, and certain geographic origins, particularly Kano, may be associated with increased susceptibility and worm burden in helminth-infected cattle. The findings provide useful epidemiological data for developing region-specific and breed-focused control strategies.