A better understanding of the ecology of Barber's Pole worm in summer rainfall regions as an aid to grazing management decisions

Research need

The complexity of worm control of sheep in summer rainfall regions is increased by the presence of Barber’s Pole worm (Haemonchus contortus). Barber's Pole is a blood-sucking worm which resides in the true stomach (ie. abomasum) and can cause sheep death, in significant numbers, during the summer and autumn period.

Key research questions

Quantify the effects of rainfall volume, distribution and evaporation on development of Barber’s Pole worm. This knowledge can be incorporated into grazing management decisions to reduce exposure of sheep to Barber's Pole worm.

Methods

In the field and in climate controlled chambers, faeces containing Barber's Pole eggs have been subjected to combinations of simulated rainfall volume, distribution and evaporation.  Developmental success has been measured.

Conclusions

This research is in progress and conclusions have yet to be drawn from the results.

Personnel

Miss Lauren O’Connor
PhD student supported by AWI
University of New England

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