Biological control of Fasciola hepatica by means of Indian duck runners (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus)

Abstract

This study investigated the potential of Indian duck runners (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) for the control of the liver fluke by eating the intermediate host, the snail Galba truncatula. The trematode Fasciola hepatica can cause economic loss in cattle and sheep production systems. In this study 24 ducks were grazing on a 12x4 meter acreage. A density of 2 ducks m-2 in continuous grazing for a period of two hours significantly reduced the snail population. It is suggested that Indian duck runners were an effective biological control agent against Galba truncatula.