Enteric coccidia of European bison (Bison bonasus) in Białowiez˙a Primeval Forest

Abstract

During autumn-winter season 2008/2009 26 fecal samples of free-ranging European bison (9 of calves under 1 year old and 17 of older ones) as well as 45 fecal samples of European bison kept in closed reserves in Białowieża Primeval Forest were collected. All samples were examinated by McMaster method. The species of coccidia were determinated based on measurement and morphology of observed oocysts in addition to monograph by Pellerdy. Eimeria bovis, E. zuernii, E. canadensis, E. cylindrica, E. ellipsoidalis, E. alabamensis, E. auburnensis and E. subspherica species were found in feces of free-ranging European bison aged under 1 year. Two species: E. cylindrica and E. subspherica were not noticed in feces of older animals. The mean oocyst count per gram of feces was several to several dozen times higher in calves comparing with older ones. Besides the above-mentioned coccidia species there were two more found in feces of European bison kept in closed reserves (E. bukidnonensis and E. pellita). To conclude the age of European bison has the significant influence on prevalence and intensity of invasion of coccidia as well as the size of their territory. Due to our research European bison was recognized as a new host of E. alabamensis, E. auburnensis, E. bukidnonensis, E. cylindrica, E. pellita and E. subspherica.