The Comparison of Efficacy of Salinomycin and Lasalocid in Reduction of Coccidian Oocyte Shedding in Broilers

In this study, the effect of salinomycin and lasalocid on coccidian oocyte shedding was investigated in 6 groups of broilers. The groups 1 and 2 received lasalocid, and the groups 3 and 4 received salinomycin. In addition to the reception of medication, the groups 2 and 4 challenged with suspension containing 4 common Eimeria species when 14 days old. Group 4 as negative control, did not receive any medication and did not challenge with Eimeria, as well. The group 6, as positive control, only challenged with Eimeria mixture. The number of fecal oocytes was counted 7, 14 and 21days after inoculation in all groups. Moreover, the feed consumption, feed conversion rate and body weight increase was cumulatively assayed and compared during the breeding period. The comparison of oocyte shedding amount among the groups receiving oocyte and medication indicated that minimum oocyte shedding was observed in broilers receiving salinomycin and lasalocid and the continuous consumption of these medications led to the reduction of oocyte shedding. Furthermore, maximum body weight increase, minimum feed consumption and minimum feed conversion rate were associated with the salinomycin and lasalocid receiving groups. Also, there was no statistically significant difference between salinomycin and lasalocid medications. Thus, it might be suggested that salinomycin or lasalocid may reduce the oocyte shedding and improve growth indices in broilers infected by the Eimeria species which are widespread in Iran.