Comparison of nematode infections of the gastrointestinal tract in Angora and dairy goats in a rangeland environment: relations with the feeding behaviour

A study was conducted in order to examine the possible influence of feeding behaviour on differences in the diversity and the intensity of nematode infections of the gastrointestinal tract between two breeds of goats placed in the same rangeland environment. Within the same flock bred on rangeland conditions, 10 Saanen dairy goats and 14 Angora goats were surveyed for 5 months (from May to September) and parasitological and behavioural parameters were measured. The level of nematode infection was estimated by monthly measurements of faecal egg counts whereas the feeding behaviour was assessed every fortnight. During the whole survey, nematode egg excretion was repeatedly higher in the Angora goats compared to the Saanen ones and significant differences were observed in May and September. This difference in egg excretion was related to major difference in feeding behaviour between the two breeds. In contrast with the Saanen does, Angora goats did not show any browsing and resting activities at any date of observation. Hence, Angora goats can be considered mainly as grazers whereas Saanen goats exhibit feeding activities close to browsers. The relative influence of feeding behaviour and host immune response on the susceptibility to gastrointestinal nematode infection in goats is discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.