Prevalence of Endoparasites in Slaughtered Broiler, Layer, and Local Chickens at Darajani Market, Zanzibar

Endoparasites are a major threat to poultry health and productivity globally and in Tanzania including Zanzibar. A research gap exists on comparative analyses of distinct endoparasite profiles across the local and exotic chicken types. The main objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of endoparasites in broiler, layer, and local chickens at Darajani chicken slaughter market in Zanzibar. The specific objectives were to assess the prevalence, intensity, and types of endoparasites in slaughtered chickens, assess species diversity and, explore links between chicken types and management practices, and provide baseline data to support targeted parasite control strategies for better poultry health, productivity, and food security in Zanzibar. Methods: The cross-sectional study involved a total of ninety fecal samples (using Cochran sample size formula) that were collected and analyzed using flotation and sedimentation methods. Sampling was conducted once a week for one month. Results: Out of ninety fecal samples, the flotation method identified 65 (72.2%) as negative, with Eimeria spp. being the most common parasite identified (12.2%). The sedimentation method proved to be a more efficient diagnostic tool with sensitivity of 83.3% compared to 43.3% for flotation method. Sedimentation method also detected a wider range of parasites. The most prevalent parasite detected by sedimentation was Ascaridia spp (17.8%). A statistical analysis confirmed that while the two methods are related (p-value