Basrah Journal of Veterinary Research

Intestinal protozoa are among the most important pathogens affecting dogs. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of intestinal protozoan infections in dogs through the examination of fecal samples. A total of 100 fecal samples were collected from dogs of different ages, sexes, health statuses, and management systems. Each sample was examined using several diagnostic approaches, including direct wet smear, flotation (concentration) technique, and culture methods. In addition, various staining techniques were employed to facilitate protozoan identification under a light microscope. The findings revealed that 59 samples (59%) were positive when all diagnostic methods were considered. The detection rates varied according to the diagnostic technique used, with positivity rates of 41% for the direct smear, 55% for the concentration method, and 59% for the culture method. Regarding staining procedures, differences in detection efficiency were also observed, with a positivity rate of 59% using Lugol’s iodine stain, 56% using the modified acid-fast staining technique, and 39% by using Iron-Hematoxylin Staining technique.Out of the 100 examined fecal samples, 59 (59%) were infected with at least one intestinal protozoan species. Three protozoan species were identified: Cystoisospora spp. (42.37%) , Cryptosporidium spp. (33.89%), whereas Giardia spp. (23.72%). A markedly higher infection rate was observed among stray dogs (83.72%). Females exhibited a higher prevalence of infection (70.68%) than males. Younger dogs were more frequently infected (76.31%) than older onesFurthermore, dogs with diarrheic conditions demonstrated a higher prevalence of infection (73.91%) compared with clinically healthy ones, which showed a relatively lower infection rate.

Canine brucellosis, a zoonosis that affects both sexes' fertility and is characterized by endometritis, placentitis, miscarriage, and/or stillbirth in females and epididymitis and orchitis in males, is mostly caused by Brucella canis. This study assessed the prevalence of antibodies to Brucella canis across various dog breeds, sexes, and ages in Mosul, Iraq. A total of 92 blood samples were analyzed using indirect ELISA tests. Results indicated that eleven tested canines were positive for IgG antibodies with an infection rate of 11.9%, and six tested positive for IgM antibodies with an infection rate of 6.5%. No significant differences were observed based on sex and age, but local dogs showed a higher IgG infection rate (18.6%) compared to K9 dogs (11.6%). German Shepherds had a notably higher IgG rate (12%). A significant age-related difference was noted, with local dogs aged 3-4 years having an IgG rate of 28.5%. This study indicated that antibodies to Brucella canis are present in the Mosul local community and in the K9 dog population. Therefore, preventive measures should be implemented to eliminate hazardous infectious agents.

The study results showed that the overall infection rate with Babesia spp. in water buffalo was 41.48%, based on microscopic examination of blood smears stained with Giemsa stain. The parasite was characterized by its appearance within red blood cells as a small, round, or oval shape, sometimes in pairs with a pear-shaped appearance, staining dark blue under the microscope. Examination using Acridine Orange stain also demonstrated high detection power for the parasite, showing the parasite shape as bright orange-yellowish within infected cells, while healthy cells appeared green. The study further demonstrated a statistically significant sex-related difference in infection prevalence (P ≤ 0.05), with females showing a markedly higher infection rate of 52.32% compared with only 22.44% in males. The study detected infections which affected all age categories, but three-year-old animals and above showed the highest infection rate at 73.80%. The research established that different age groups showed substantial variations in their infection rates. The results also showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in infection rates between the regions included in the study.

Hemolytic anemia (HA) is a group of diseases characterized by the accelerated destruction of red blood cells (RBCs), resulting in various clinical manifestations such as anemia and jaundice. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of Myricetin on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced hemolytic anemia in adult male rats. Forty rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I received normal saline orally. Group II consisted of anemic rats administered normal saline orally. Group III included anemic rats treated with Myricetin (1 mg/kg body weight, i.p, once daily), and Group IV comprised anemic rats treated with folic acid (1 mg/kg body weight, orally, once daily). All treatments were continued for 30 consecutive days. Serum samples were collected on days 7, 15, and 30 and analyzed using biochemistry analyzer to assess hematological, inflammatory biomarkers. The results showed a significant, time-dependent improvement in key hematological and inflammatory parameters, including Ferritin, Serum Iron, Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), and Indirect bilirubin. Collectively, these findings suggest that Myricetin may exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects , that contribute to hematological improvement. This highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate for the management of hemolytic anemia.

The present investigation assessed the reproductive toxicity caused by di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and the modulating effect of reduced glutathione (GSH) in adult male Rock Dove pigeons (Columba livia gaddi). Sixty pigeons (>10 months old) were randomly allotted into groups of fifteen for 28 days; control groups received saline (1 mL), treatment groups received GSH (0.55 mg/kg BW), treatment groups received DEHP (400 mg/kg BW; below the LD50 value of 435.6 mg/kg BW), and the combined treatment of DEHP+GSH. DEHP is pervasive in the plastic and environmental media; therefore, exposure in birds is possible and likely. The treatment was designed to determine the effect of GSH supplementation in reducing the DEHP induced damage in the reproductive cells by assessing the functional parameter of both sperm and the testosterone levels in the pigeon model. Weight of the testicular tissue, epididymal sperm indexes, and blood testosterone were measured; testosterone was measured using a competitive ELISA. In the presence of GSH alone, there was no harm to the biological tissue measurements. There was a significant decrease in testosterone to 1.77±0.36 IU/ml (43.1% lower than control values), along with a decrease in the weight of the right/left side of the testis to 0.99±1.07 g and 1.10±0.58 g. Regarding the sperm concentration values, the results were lower in the DEHP-exposed groups (0.91±0.16×10⁶/mm^3; 86.1% lower compared to control groups), as well as the percentage of live sperm (0.18±4.42% lower compared to control groups). Co-exposure mitigated the effect to some extent on the sperm concentration (1.17×10⁶/mm^3; p<0.01) and live sperm (24.88% lower; p<0.001.

Given the scarcity of published sources on Pseudomonas aeruginosa in birds and the significant health threat it poses as a zoonotic disease, the present study aimed to detect Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a cause of enteritis in pigeons, and to study their antibiotic sensitivity. Between August and November of 2025, fifty samples (part of the intestine and diarrhea) were obtained from pigeons with intestinal inflammation. Transfer samples by aseptic tubes to the laboratory of Microbiology, College of Vet Medicine, Campus of Mosul. All samples were subjected to culturing on enrichment media (brain heart infusion broth (BHIB) and blood agar) and selective media (cetrimide agar), morphological (Gram stain), tube conventional biochemical tests, and confirmed by the VITEK2 system and the Render MA120 Identity System operation (Kits contain a group of biochemical tests). 10 samples from 50 samples (20%) show a positive reaction for Pseudomonas, while 40 samples from 50 (80%) samples show a negative reaction for Pseudomonas. Furthermore, these isolates undergo antibiotic susceptibility tests, which showed complete resistance to cloxacillin, metronidazole, penicillin, sulfa-trimethoprim, tetracycline, and amoxicillin and showed complete sensitivity to neomycin, gentamicin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, and imipenem. In conclusion, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the reasons for enteritis in pigeons and is highly resistant to many antibiotics, posing a real threat to public health.

Both hydatidosis and fascioliasis are prevalent diseases that affect herbivores in several countries, including Iraq. The present research evaluated the prevalence of hydatidosis and fascioliasis in livestock slaughtered at the Soran municipal abattoir in Erbil, Iraq, from December 2023 to March 2024. A total of 3,044 animals were subjected to post-mortem examination, comprising 445 sheep, 961 goats, and 1,638 cattle. The overall prevalence of hydatidosis was 1.34%, whereas fascioliasis was observed in 1.37% of the total population. Sheep demonstrated the highest infection rates for both parasitic diseases (hydatidosis: 7.6%; fascioliasis: 3.37%), followed by cattle, while goats exhibited minimal susceptibility (0% and 0.31%, respectively). Anatomical distribution indicated that 86% of hydatid cysts in sheep were situated in the lungs, whereas in cattle, cysts were found in both the liver and lungs. During the testing phase, protoscolices of E. granulosus were subjected in vivo to aqueous extracts of Melia azedarach and Euphorbia spp. at concentrations of 50 mg/ml and 100 mg/ml. The extract of Melia azedarach exhibited scolicidal activity that was dependent on both time and concentration, achieving a mortality rate of up to 95.8% at the highest concentration. Conversely, Euphorbia spp. The extract exhibited total scolicidal efficacy (100% mortality) across all concentrations and exposure durations evaluated. The findings underscore species-specific vulnerability to parasitic infections and designate Euphorbia spp. extract as a promising natural candidate for the formulation of effective scolicidal agents in hydatid disease management.

Fascioliasis is a significant zoonotic disease caused by Fasciola species that affects humans and animals like sheep, cows and buffaloes worldwide, causing public and veterinary health problems. The aim of this study is to focus on the genetic differentiation between the two species of Fasciola (F. hepatica and F. gigantica) by using the large subunit of 28S rDNA gene. A total of 45 adult worms were isolated from the liver of different cattle in Iraq-Basrah Province. Extraction of genomic DNA using a special kit was performed to isolate Fasciola species with 21 bp specific primers included that target 28S rDNA. The BLAST and PCR products showed evolutionary phylogenetic and genetic variation with similarity in about 80% between the two species of Fasciola. The results phylogenetically concluded a highly species-specific conservation and polymorphism with possible strain hybridization.

Bovine tropical theileriosis, caused by Theileria annulata, was surveyed in dairy cattle herds of Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. In a cross-sectional study of 212 cattle, Giemsa-stained microscopy was compared to nested PCR (n-PCR), and the determinant risk factors and phylogenetic relationships were investigated. The microscopic and PCR prevalence of infection was 12.7 and 21.7, respectively (P≤0.0001). Age increased prevalence by a significant margin (P≤0.032): cattle 5 years old were almost four times more likely to be infected than calves. Poor body condition was a significant determinant as opposed to sex and breed effects, which were not significant (P≤0.0001). Risk was also predisposed by management variables, outdoor grazing, and infrequent use of acaricides (P≤0.0001). The phylogenetic analysis was done using 10 local 18S rRNA sequences (GenBank accessions OP435250-OP435259), and all Duhok isolates appeared in one clade, but some of them were extremely close to a strain present in the neighboring countries (99-100% identity). These results suggest regional genetic continuity and most likely cross-border spread. To sum up, T. annualata causes a significant epidemiological impact in dairy cattle in Duhok. The superior sensitivity of PCR, the strong influence of age, body condition, and management practice, and the evidence of regional strain circulation underscore the need for enhanced molecular surveillance, regimented acaricide programs, and targeted, risk-based control strategies to safeguard herd health and productivity.

This study included 200 cattle and buffaloes in Mosul city from August 2025 to January 2026 to detect microfilariae in cattle and buffalo blood using Knott’s technique, Giemsa stain, fluorescent acridine orange stain, Hematoxylin and eosin stain, Leishman stain. Three types of infection were detected including mild, moderate, and severe, using the same method, with significant differences (P < 0.05). The percentage of Microfilaria infection in blood was 40% in cattle and 60% in buffaloes. Results indicated a low rate of infection below one year old (26.7%) in cattle and (40%) in buffalo, while a high percentage of infection in animals over three years old (55%) in cattle and (75%) in buffalo. significant differences were observed A high percentage of infection in females (45.5%) in cattle and (66.7%) in buffalo while the percentage of infection in males (33.3%) in cattle and (50%) in buffalo. The relationship between animal husbandry and infection rates indicated an increase level of infection in outdoor systems (46.2%,64.3%) in cattle and buffalo respectively than in indoor systems (28.6%, 50%) in cattle and buffalo respectively. The relationship between the months and infection rates diagnosed that presences an increase in the level of infection in summer seasons in cattle and buffaloes (61.1%,80%) respectively than in winter seasons in cattle and buffalo respectively (12.5% ,26.67%). Geographical distribution of the infection reviled that the higher infection rate observed in Badush region than anther regions in both cattle and buffalo (60%,72%) respectively.

The study was conducted in Basrah province/ South of Iraq, from November 2024 to October 2025. The survey of lice was done in five stations: Al-Zubayer, Al-Qurnah, Shatt Al-Arab, Abu Al-Khaseeb, and Basrah City. The collection included slaughterhouses, sheepfolds, farms and livestock markets. Samples were collected from various sites of the sheep body, including: head, neck, abdomen, trunk, and extremities. The total number of sheep examined was 331. The results of the survey showed the prevalence in the examined sheep was (48.34%). Lice species identification was accomplished based on modern taxonomic keys. The identification included observing some morphological characteristics. Sheep were infested with six species of lice: four were sucking lice Linognathous capillatus (Enderlein,1904), Linognathus vituli Linnaeus,1758, Linognathus africanus (Kellogg and Paine,1911), Linognathus ovillus (Neumann,1907), and two species of chewing lice Bovicola ovis Linnaeus,1758, and Bovicola caprae (Gurlt,1843). Solenopotes capillatus was recorded in Iraq for the first time. Sheep was recorded as a new host for the Linognathus vituli, which had previously been recorded on cows.

Gallid alphaherpesvirus 2 (MDV-1) is the cause of the disease that causes T-cell lymphomas, nerve enlargement and visceral lesions in chickens. Despite the large-scale vaccination, the Marek diseases (MD) continue to cause devastating economic losses by lowering productivity, increasing mortality and the expensive control measures. The virus is known to have three serotypes: MDV-1 oncogenic serotype, and MDV-2 and MDV-3 non-pathogenic serotypes employed as vaccine strains. The virulence classifications in MDV-1 are mMDV, vMDV, vvMDV and vv+MDV. The Asian studies have discovered the existence of highly virulent field strains that have mutations in the Meq oncogene, which indicates that the viruses have evolved and are capable of escaping vaccines. The virus is not transmitted vertically, and the main way of transmission is inhalation of the feather dust of an infected bird. It is also very stable in the environment and continues to stay in poultry houses for a long time. Lesions can also present themselves in the nerves, liver, spleen, kidneys and eyes, usually resulting in paralysis or grey eye. Diagnosis is a combination of clinical, pathologic, and molecular diagnosis to include PCR of Meq, gL, and ICP4, as well as immunohistochemistry. Though vaccination has significantly lowered the impact of the diseases, there is the constant development of virulent strains that pose a threat to the effectiveness of the vaccines and the adverse effects of the vaccines on preventing the diseases. The report aims to discuss the latest scientific research on MDV in chickens. In conclusion, the continuous evolution of MDV-1, particularly the emergence of Meq variability associated with augmented virulence, continues to challenge the immunization proficiency of the current vaccination practices. The above advances, combined with the environment of the virus and its high capacity to cause horizontal infections, highlight. Also, the importance of applying better molecular surveillance and establishing more efficient vaccine platforms in order to effectively manage Marek’s disease in chicken farms.

Malignant Catarrhal Fever (MCF) is a severe, fatal viral disease in ruminants (such as cattle, bison, deer, buffalo) caused by Gamma-herpesviruses type 1, typically spread from asymptomatic carrier animals (wildebeest or sheep/goats). It's characterized by fever, severe inflammation, and ulceration of mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth, blindness, difficult breathing, diarrhea, and neurological signs, with a grave prognosis and no effective treatment or vaccine. The disease is nearly endemic in Iraq. (As the number of recorded clinical cases began to increase) and of significant clinical and epidemiological importance because of its adverse health effects on infected animals due to high infection rates and increased mortality among infected animals. The disease affects cattle and buffalo, especially those raised with sheep. The disease manifests in multiple forms, and due to its clinical significance, proper preventative measures must be taken to prevent its spread and minimize economic losses.

Hemoplasmosis is a worldwide spread disease with significant clinical and epidemiological importance due to the related to its health crises it causes, which negatively impacts infected animals. In horses, this disease requires careful attention because of the systemic reactions, hemolytic anemia, and weakness it can trigger. Additionally, postmortem features may display general emaciation, paleness of internal organs, obvious splenomegaly, and enlarged (liver, kidneys, and heart), which showed white patches. Furthermore, histopathological changes indicate degeneration and necrosis in cardiac muscles, besides atrophic glomeruli, accompanied by the dilatation of renal tubules in the kidneys, as well as a marked reduction in the proportion of white pulp of splenic tissue and degenerative changes in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, accompanied by nuclear alterations characterized by loss of chromatin content in the hepatic tissue. As the disease is life-threatening, it often results in the death of the affected animal; therefore, essential preventive measures should be applied to limit the disease and its spread by implementing advanced methods that protect animals from infection and death.

The accessibility of comprehensive fungal genomes is fast increasing, providing a thorough and precise perspective on this "kingdom." A significant scientific achievement has been attained with the open access to over 1000 fungal genomes from various species, accompanied by the launch of new and engaging projects. The “1000 Fungal Genomes Project” constitutes one of the most enormous sequencing initiatives centered on fungal organisms, aiming to tackle deficiencies in fungal genomics. Currently, 329 fungal families possess at least one sequenced representative genome; nonetheless, other fungal families remain without any sequenced genomes. Furthermore, supplementary sequencing research contributed to the comprehension of genetic diversity among certain fungal species. The existence of many genomes per species aids in taxonomic classification, affords new views on fungal evolution in quick timeframes, clarifies regional distribution and dispersal patterns, and elucidates outbreaks and transmission routes, among other objectives. Genotyping strategies analyse solely a limited phase of an individual's genome and alternatively facilitate the rapid and inexpensive comparison of numerous isolates. The incorporation of comprehensive genomic approaches and enhanced genotyping panels focused on specific and pertinent single-nucleotide polymorphisms and/or repetitive areas can serve as efficient and pragmatic methods for investigating the local, regional, and global epidemiology of fungus.