Occurrence of Knemidokoptes mutans and Laminosioptes cysticola in backyard poultry in India.

Birds reared in backyard poultry farming system are more prone to parasitic infestation resulting in economic losses to rural community. The present study reports occurrence of Knemidokoptes mutans and Laminosioptes cysticola mites in a male Aseel bird. Clinical signs observed in the affected bird include hyperkeratosis with whitish film layer on shank and hock region of legs. Focal areas of sloughing of skin with oozing of blood were also observed on the back and on the legs. Examination of skin scrapings from the affected sites revealed different developmental stages of Knemidokoptes mutans and Laminosioptes cysticola mites. This paper reports occurrence of L. cysticola for the first time from India. The bird was treated with ivermectin injection through intramuscular route.