# A Prevalence Study on Anoplocephala spp. in Serbian Horses: Navigating Diagnostic Challenges and Understanding Infection Risks

## TL;DR

This study finds that nearly 40% of Serbian horses are infected with Anoplocephala tapeworms, identifying risk factors like high stocking density and co-infections.

## Contribution

The study provides new data on Anoplocephala spp. prevalence in Serbia and identifies specific risk factors for infection in Southeastern Europe.

## Key findings

- 38.7% of horses tested positive for Anoplocephala spp. using combined diagnostic methods.
- High stocking density, free-roaming status, and nematode co-infection increased tapeworm risk.
- Lower rainfall and temperate climate were associated with reduced infection risk.

## Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors for infection with equine tapeworms, specifically Anoplocephala spp., in a population of 173 horses across 15 districts in Serbia. Utilising a comprehensive diagnostic approach that combined coprological and serological methods, the overall tapeworm prevalence was 38.7%. Stocking density, horse use and concurrent nematode infection were shown to be risk factors associated with tapeworm infection, while lower rainfall and temperate climate were factors associated with reduced infection risk. These findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology of Anoplocephala spp. infection in grazing horses in Southeastern Europe and new data for the development of education programmes for horse breeders and owners based on specific risk factors, infection control and prevention.

Anoplocephala spp. are common equine tapeworm species in Europe, frequently found in grazing horses. Anoplocephala perfoliata is the most pathogenic, clinically significant species associated with gastrointestinal disorders, particularly colic, and can have a fatal outcome in some horses. The aim of this study was to determine the infection prevalence of Anoplocephala spp. in Serbia and to identify relevant risk factors. A total of 173 horses from various regions were tested using a combination of diagnostic methods: coprological analysis via combined sedimentation–flotation and the Mini-FLOTAC technique, as well as serological testing using a commercial ELISA test. The overall prevalence was 38.7%, with a higher number of positive cases being identified by serology. It was demonstrated that coprology and serology are complementary approaches for prevalence studies. Infection risk factors included high stocking density, free-roaming status and co-infection with nematodes, while lower rainfall and temperate climate were associated with reduced risk of tapeworm infection. These findings highlight the challenges of Anoplocephala spp. detection and provide insight into the epidemiology of equine tapeworm infection in Southeastern Europe.