Chemical sub- stances are usually used to control mite infestation but resistance is on the increase.


Controlling red mite infestation with garlic


Dermanyssus gallinae, also known as poultry red mite, is considered globally as one of the most challenging problems in egg production/in the egg industry. Recent research has shown the benefit of adding garlic to feed as an alternative mite control strategy in laying hens.


R 16 BY MARIO ROMAN, PANCOSMA


ed mite parasitism negatively affects layers and breeders, causing a reduction in egg production, slower growth rates and behavioural changes. It fur- ther acts as a vector for bacteria and viruses. Chemi-


cal products based on pyrethroids have commonly been used as a mitigation measure to control these mites. However, the use of these substances leads to resistance development, as


Figure 1 - Results trial 1.


0.10% 0.20% 0.30% 0.40% 0.50% 0.60% 0.70% 0.80%


0.00% 1 2 Facility ▶ POULTRY WORLD | No. 7, 2021 3 4


Cracked Eggs 0.76%


0.61% 0.43% 0.42% 0.59% 0.61% 0.49% 0.53% Mortality


Garlium Control


10% 15% 20% 25%


7%


0% 5%


1 2 Facility 3 4 23%


Garlium Control


15% 11% 12% 10% 11%


well as risks to bird, applicator and consumer health due to chemical traces and residues of product residue in the final products. Red mite impact on animal health, welfare, pro- duction, farm economics and food security, along with a long list of driving factors, create a nightmare scenario for farmers who are continually looking for alternatives to traditional acaricides. Research by Pancosma has recently shown that – owing to its sulphurous organic compounds – garlic releases an odour which is unpleasant to insects and mites, thereby creating a barrier between the animals and these undesirable agents. In a 7-10 week trial on two separate farms in Brazil the company set out to test the repellent effect on Acarus and how mite pressure can be reduced using its flavouring pal- atant based on garlic oil and other active allium ingredients which introduce a strong garlic aroma into the feed. A total of 50,000 hens (Lohman Lite Whites and Hisex) housed in


14%


% of cracked eggs


% of mortality


PHOTO: MARCEL VAN HOORN


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