Identification and prevalence of Paramphistomum cervi in naturally infected water buffaloes of central Punjab, Pakistan

9 Abstract Gastrointestinal trematode parasites especially Paramphistomum cervi are accountable for health hazards in buffalo of central Punjab. A total of 289 rumens and reticulums of buffaloes were examined for the presence of Paramphistomum cervi by visiting local abattoirs. The trematodes were preserved in 70% alcohol for identification based on its morphological characteristics. The results of our study showed that 17.3 percent buffalos were infected by Paramphistomum cervi in central Punjab. The correlation between worm burden and area was found to be non-significant (p > 0.05) indicating the presence of trematode in all districts of study area. Highest average worm burden was observed in Sargodha and lowest in Mandi Bahauddin. The correlation between worm burden and age was highly significant (p < 0.05), while correlation between worm burden and study area was non-significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, highest worm burden was noted in buffaloes of having 22 year age. It was concluded that Paramphistomum cervi is prevalent in central Punjab. The availability of fresh water snails serving as intermediate host, existence of extensive water channel system and poor grazing management of animals being practiced in these areas should be managed to control the trematode infections.