Investigation of Potential Biological Control Agents for Internal Parasite Control in Goats

2013 Annual Report for OS13-073

Project Type: On-Farm Research
Funds awarded in 2013: $14,930.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2015
Region: Southern
State: Arkansas
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Yong Park
University of Arkansas Pine Bluff

Investigation of Potential Biological Control Agents for Internal Parasite Control in Goats

Summary

It is too early in the project to summarize results. However, the project is on target and meaningful results should be available early next year.

 

Objectives/Performance Targets

The project will identify coprophagous and nematopredacious species present on farms in Arkansas. Species identified as potentially useful in controlling H. contortus larval survival will be propagated.

 

Accomplishments/Milestones

Five cooperating farmers were recruited, one northeastern Arkansas, one in southwestern Arkansas, one in southeastern Arkansas and two in northwestern Arkansas. Insect traps were placed on five cooperator farms in July, September and December to determine the types of insects attracted to goat manure. Insects were collected frozen for identification in the lab. Identification of collected insects is currently underway. The producer in northeastern Arkansas sold out of the goat business and dropped out of the study after the September collection.

 

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

It is too early in the study to determine any outcomes or impacts. However, it appears that predatory insects may be important contributors to the control of dung-living parasites.

 

Collaborators:

Steven Sharp

Farmer
5815 Larkin Rd.
Violet Hill, AR 72584
Office Phone: 8703683636
Sonny Chidester

Farmer
873 Lost Creek Rd.
Shirley, AR 72153
Office Phone: 5017238247
Eric Waddell

Farmer
643 Grant 19006
White Hall, AR 71602
Office Phone: 8706927480
Nancy Edgerly

Farmer
Silverhill Goats
790 Goat Drive
St. Joe, AR 72675
Office Phone: 8705040897
Ronald Morris

Farmer
117 Sundown Dr.
DeQueen, AR 71832
Office Phone: 8702794882