Occurrence of Laminosioptes cysticola mite in broiler poultry and proposed solutions to prevent infestation

Native poultry is among the most important sources of meat and protein supply in Iran that has long been bred in various regions. Internal and external parasites are the main reasons for their reduced growth and production. Laminosioptes cysticola is a cystic mite that is mostly found in the subcutaneous layer and surface of muscles of several birds. It can rarely cause lesions in other organs such as abdomen, lungs and peritoneum. The life cycle of L. cysticola has not been known completely yet, but after hatchery, the whole life cycle would be passed in the subcutaneous layer or on muscles. In the present study, 400 pieces of native chicken in the north Sistan–Baluchestan and Kerman provinces are monitored over 3 years for infestation with L. cysticola mites and its prevalence is determined (2.75%). Considering the infestation with this parasite in the southeast of the country (and probably in the remaining poultry), spraying and disinfection of chicken runs are recommended. This is the first report on the prevalence of this parasite in Iran.