Helminth infections in alpacas (Vicugna pacos), husbandry and worm control practices in South American Camelids in Italy

Abstract

The recent global expansion of alpaca breeding, including in Italy, has driven growing interest in this species, making further research necessary to support their health and management. Gastrointestinal helminths are among the main health concerns, causing severe disease that affects welfare and productivity. In Europe, data on helminth infections in South American Camelids (SACs) are still limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, distribution, and risk factors for helminth infections in alpacas in Italy, and evaluate the husbandry and worm control practices through a structured questionnaire and coprological analyses. Individual fecal samples were collected from 1296 alpacas and analysed by the Mini-FLOTAC, Baermann, and sedimentation techniques. Gastrointestinal strongyle (GIS) type eggs were the most frequently detected helminths (54.0 %), followed by Nematodirus spp. (21.2 %), Trichuris spp. (12.6 %), Nematodirus battus (7.6 %), Capillaria spp. (6.7 %), Moniezia spp. (3.2 %), Dicrocoelium dendriticum (2.5 %), Strongyloides spp. (0.5 %), and Dictyocaulus spp. (0.2 %). Alpacas < 2 years were at higher risk of infection for all helminth groups. Breeding in central, southern, and insular area was significantly associated with almost all helminth infections. The warm season was significantly associated with GIS, Nematodirus spp., and Trichuris spp. infections. Alpacas with a BCS < 3 had a higher risk for Trichuris spp. and Capillaria spp. infections. Questionnaire responses (n = 104) revealed great attention to dung removal and parasitological monitoring. This study provides the first data on helminth infections in alpacas in Italy, showing wide species diversity. The use of fenbendazole and ivermectin was widespread, raising concerns about potential anthelmintic resistance.