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Evaluation of in-house factors affecting the population distribution of Dermanyssus gallinae in cage and backyard rearing systems by using a modified monitoring method

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Abstract

Dermanyssus gallinae (poultry red mite, PRM) is a main ectoparasite of poultry that represents a serious economic threat to all farming systems, including cages and backyard flocks. In recent years, economic losses associated with this ectoparasite have progressively increased, mainly because of the lack of information regarding its population dynamics and appropriate control methods. In this study, we used a modified monitoring method to examine the in-house factors affecting the population density of D. gallinae. PRMs have been found in all poultry houses examined in Turkey. The largest population was detected in the front and back parts of the middle rows in cage systems as well as in perches in backyard systems. Relative humidity, light, and temperature might be the most affecting factors on the mite distribution inside the poultry houses. Besides, the mite populations are influenced mainly by the last (chemical) treatment date and the construction materials of the building. Dermanyssus gallinae were found to be the most dominant mite species (98.9%), followed by Cheyletus sp. (Cheyletidae); also some Acaridae (Tyrophagus spp.) and Oribatida were identified. Hence, further research on Cheyletus sp. is required to elucidate their predatory potential and develop future control strategies. This study contributes to understanding the PRM population behavior in poultry houses as well as their monitoring and control methods, which are key components in the appropriate application of integrated pest management programs.

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Acknowledgements

This study was produced from first author’s PhD thesis presented at Ankara University. The authors would like to thank Dr. Ufuk KAYA for the statistical analysis.

Funding

This work was supported by Ankara University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit (project no. 17L0239014).

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  1. Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, 06110, Dışkapı, Ankara, Turkey

    Nafiye Koç & Serpil Nalbantoğlu

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  1. Nafiye Koç
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  2. Serpil Nalbantoğlu
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Correspondence to Nafiye Koç.

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10493_2021_638_MOESM1_ESM.png

Supplementary Figure1: Map of sampling locations of Dermanyssus gallinae populations. Circle and star markers identify the cage and backyard farms and the colors, blue, red, gray indicate the collection month June, July, Aug, respectively. (PNG 1140 KB)

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Koç, N., Nalbantoğlu, S. Evaluation of in-house factors affecting the population distribution of Dermanyssus gallinae in cage and backyard rearing systems by using a modified monitoring method. Exp Appl Acarol 84, 529–541 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10493-021-00638-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10493-021-00638-y

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