NCIS

Nematode criminal investigation service

Abstract

Haemonchus contortus wreaks havoc on small ruminant and camelid farms in many temperate parts of the world. Unlike many other trichostrongyle nematodes that primarily behave as thieves by robbing animals of body condition, Haemonchus contortus has the distinction of being a killer. This trichostrongyle becomes a "prime suspect" whenever complaints of anemia, weight loss, and death losses arise on farms. As a result, veterinarians need to know how to investigate the scene of the crime, and to help producers recognize and stop management factors that enable criminal behavior in the resident worm population. Control measures need to focus on not only sustaining animal viability, but also preserving anthelmintic efficacy.