Fluke mapping using eDNA to inform development of sustainable control measures

With high prevalence levels of liver and rumen fluke apparent across Wales, alongside evidence of increasing infection risk patterns, it is ever more important that new diagnosis and control strategies are put in place to combat this. This is especially relevant as UK winters become warmer and wetter.

A group of six beef and/or sheep farmers from around Aberystwyth who have all experienced similar fluke issues are taking part in this two year project. They will be working with IBERS and Ystwyth Veterinary Practice to investigate whether fluke mapping using environmental DNA (eDNA) can aid them reduce fluke levels on farms. This technology can identify the presence of mud snails infected with fluke by detecting their DNA in water which has the greatest potential to infect livestock with parasites. As not all wet areas are present with infected mud snails therefore by knowing which areas of fields poses risk it will be possible to reduce contact between livestock and those areas by fencing them off, or by improving the drainage.

Project details

Funding amount:
£40,000
Funding source:
EIP
Area:
Ceredigion
Completion:

Contact:

Name:
Emma Jones
Email project contact

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