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South Indian zebu dwarf cattle show higher natural resistance to tick infestation compared to crossbreds: preliminary observations

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Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of various factors on the host resistance of cattle against tick infestation in Kerala State, South India. The number of naturally infested semi-engorged female ticks present on the cattle was counted on a sample cattle population across the four regions of Kerala. Then, the animals were grouped based on the tick count. The chi-square test and Fisher exact test were used to identify the effects of genetic and non-genetic factors on tick burden in cattle. It was found that the Holstein Friesian crossbred and Jersey crossbred cattle had a significantly higher level of tick infestation than the indigenous Vechur breed (Bos indicus). No tick infestation was observed in indigenous Kasaragod Dwarf cattle (B. indicus). Tick infestation was more in heifers and dry animals than lactating animals. However, the sex of the animal and the stage of lactation did not influence the tick load. Tick infestation was also influenced by parity, grazing, and region.

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Acknowledgements

We are thankful to the Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University; Kerala State Department of Animal Husbandry; and the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (078/SPS/2012//CSTE) for the support and facilities to carry out this study.

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This study received financial support from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University.

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K.S., M. C., S N., S. S., and D. S. collected the data, assisted, and participated in the data acquisition. C. S. and P.M. performed the calculations and statistical analysis of data. C.N. and R. R. conceived the study, supervised the data collection, and drafted and reviewed the manuscript. All authors read and approved the manuscript.

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Correspondence to R. Ravindran.

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This study involved a questionnaire-based survey of farmers and tick load on their animals. The study protocol was assessed and approved by the Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University. Participants provided their verbal informed consent for the related survey questions.

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Akhil, K.S., Chackochan, M., Sunanda, C. et al. South Indian zebu dwarf cattle show higher natural resistance to tick infestation compared to crossbreds: preliminary observations. Trop Anim Health Prod 53, 498 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-021-02935-5

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