PREVALENCE OF Eimeria spp. INFECTION IN BROILER FARMING (Gallus domesticus) IN KALIBARU DISTRICT, BANYUWANGI REGENCY

Abstract

Coccidiosis is one of the most detrimental parasitic diseases in the poultry industry, particularly affecting broilers. This disease is caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria, which infect the intestinal tract and may lead to growth disorders, decreased production performance, and even death. Kalibaru Subdistrict, Banyuwangi Regency, is an area with rapid development of broiler farming but still faces disease challenges such as coccidiosis. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection in broilers (Gallus domesticus) in Kalibaru Subdistrict. The research was conducted descriptively using a cross-sectional approach. Fecal samples were collected from five broiler farms located in five different villages. A total of 75 samples were collected and examined using the flotation method to detect oocysts. Identification was carried out microscopically based on the morphology and size of the oocysts. The results showed that all fecal samples were positive for Eimeria spp., with an infection prevalence of 100%. The observed oocysts were oval to round in shape, with double-layered walls, and some had undergone sporulation. The identified Eimeria spp. oocysts varied in size, categorized into large, medium, and small groups. The species identified included Eimeria maxima, Eimeria mitis, and Eimeria praecox. Infections were detected across all study locations, including Kalibaru Wetan, Kalibaru Kulon, Kalibaru Manis, Kebonrejo, and Banyuanyar. These findings indicate that Eimeria spp. infection is a serious issue in broiler farming in the area. Therefore, increased vigilance is necessary through improvements in farm management, implementation of biosecurity, application of the all-in all-out system, and routine education for farmers and farm workers. Further studies using molecular approaches are recommended for more specific species identification and more accurate control strategies.