Age dynamics of distribution of Eimeria species parasitizing domestic chickens in the Shakhbuz region

In this study, the prevalence of Eimeria species among domestic chickens in Shahbuz district of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic during 2021-2024 was analyzed according to age characteristics. For this purpose, 533 chicken feces of different age groups were collected from the mountainous and foothill areas of the region and Eimeria species were found in 372 (IE-69.7%) samples. As a result of morphological analysis, E. tenella , E. maxima , E. acervulina , E. praecox , E. mitis , E. necatrix and E. brunetti species were detected and differences were observed in their distribution according to age groups. The infection level was found to be higher in 0-3 and 4-7 months old chickens, especially in the skirt sections. The results obtained in the study indicate that the age of the chickens plays an important role in the distribution of species of the genus Eimeria . These results are of great importance for establishing effective control and prevention strategies in the region.