Med. Weter. 82 (02), 89-92, 2026
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| ŞAKIR PEHLIVAN, FATMA NUR DAL, KEREM ÖTER, AYNUR GÜLANBER |
| Identification of lice species of water buffaloes in the Marmara region of Türkiye |
| Water buffaloes are valued for their resilience, efficient feed utilisation, and ability to convert low-quality feeds into meat and milk. In Türkiye, the water buffaloes’ population underwent a substantial decline in the 20th century; however, it has since experienced a resurgence, and buffalo and their products have regained popularity. Ectoparasites, such as lice, ticks, and mites, can cause direct harm to their hosts, including weight loss, anemia, and even death. They have also been proven to act as vectors for disease transmission, including zoonotic infections. In this study, 143 water buffaloes from dairy farms in Istanbul, Kırklareli, and Sakarya were examined for lice infestations between February and April 2022. Of the 143 water buffaloes examined, 37 (25.9%) were found to be infested with lice, with a total of 216 lice collected. The mean number of lice per buffalo was 1.38, with 76 males, 121 females, and 19 nymphs. All collected lice identified as Haematopinus tuberculatus. This study is the first comprehensive study of lice infestation of water buffaloes in Türkiye. The management of lice is of crucial importance in minimising economic losses in buffalo farming, and regular ectoparasite surveillance and antiparasitic programmes are recommended. Further research is required to enhance our understanding of lice populations and their role in disease transmission. |
| Keywords: Water buffaloes, Lice, Haematopinus tuberculatus |