The first identification of a blood-sucking abomasal nematode Ashworthius sidemi in cattle (Bos taurus) using simple polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

- A simple polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to identify Ashworthius sidemi infection in cattle sharing the same natural pastures with wildlife.
- Genomic DNA was isolated from third-stage infective larvae (L3) obtained by incubating cattle feces.
- A 406 bp fragment of A. sidemi DNA was amplified using species-specific A. sidemi primers in PCR.
- The transfer of A. sidemi infection from wildlife to the farm animals grazing on the same pastures appears possible.

A simple polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to identify Ashworthius sidemi, a blood-sucking gastrointestinal nematode that commonly infects bison, red and roe deer, and moose in Poland. The present study uses this technique to confirm the possibility of transmission of A. sidemi infection from wildlife to domestic animals, such as cattle and sheep, grazing on the same natural pastures. A 406 bp fragment of genomic A. sidemi DNA was actually detected in DNA isolated from larval cultures derived from feces from cattle. A. sidemi DNA has been detected in cattle which represent a new host for this parasite. This is the first evidence of A. sidemi in cattle. The results reveal that a PCR test based on DNA from L3 larvae can be used for in vivo detection of A. sidemi invasions in breeding animals.In conclusion, the transfer of A. sidemi infection from wildlife to the farm animals sharing the same pastures appears possible.