The identity of nematode genera involved in cases of ovine anthelmintic resistance in the southern North Island of New Zealand

Abstract

Larval cultures and faecal egg count reductions were used to determine the identities and frequencies of occurrence of nematode genera involved in cases of ovine anthelmintic resistance submitted to the Batchelar Animal Health Laboratory between 1992 and 1994. Based on an examination of 102 cases, it was found that, while there were some differences relating to the method of assessment, the genera most frequently involved were Trichostrongylus, Ostertagia and Nematodirus. Also implicated, although less commonly, were infections of Oesophagostomum/Chabertia, Haemonchus and Cooperia. The majority of cases involved resistance in two or more genera, with resistance in a single nematode genus occurring in 45% of cases. Most such monogeneric resistances comprised infections of Trichostrongylus (52%), Ostertagia (17%) or Nematodirus (11%). Anthelmintic resistance involving Haemonchus alone was found in only three cases. These results suggest that the potential role of narrow-spectrum drenches in the management and control of anthelmintic-resistant worms in New Zealand sheep is likely to be strictly limited.