How to advance poultry industry globally — Expert

For Adeleye Mathew Ajao, an expert in the field of poultry science and animal nutrition, tackling the pervasive issue of coccidiosis in broiler chickens is not just a professional pursuit but a mission to advance the poultry industry globally.

With dual PhDs—one in Poultry Science from the University of Georgia and another in Monogastric Animal Nutrition from the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta in Nigeria—alongside a master’s degree in Monogastric Animal Nutrition and a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the same institution, Ajao’s extensive academic and practical expertise positions him at the forefront of innovative research and business development in the poultry sector.

Coccidiosis, a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, presents a significant challenge to the poultry industry due to its economic impact and the health issues it causes in broiler chickens.

The disease affects various parts of the chicken’s intestinal tract, depending on the Eimeria species involved. Understanding these species, such as E. tenella, E. acervulina, and E. maxima, is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies.

These parasites, according to him, cause severe damage to the intestinal epithelial cells, resulting in lesions, impaired nutrient absorption, and compromised bird performance, manifesting as diarrhoea, reduced feed intake, weight loss, and even mortality in severe cases.

Effective control of coccidiosis hinges on accurate diagnosis and tailored intervention strategies. Techniques like faecal oocyst counts, lesion scoring, and molecular methods such as PCR are essential for identifying Eimeria species and assessing the extent of infection in broiler flocks. Moreover, host immunity plays a pivotal role in managing the disease.

Live-attenuated vaccines stimulate protective immunity by exposing chickens to weakened forms of Eimeria, helping to build resistance against future infections.

The use of ionophores and chemical anticoccidials in feed has traditionally been a mainstay in coccidiosis prevention and control. However, the emergence of drug-resistant strains necessitates the prudent use and rotation of these anticoccidials to maintain their efficacy. In addition, alternative strategies are gaining traction, including the use of probiotics, organic acids, and plant-derived compounds.

These approaches aim to enhance gut health and immunity, thereby reducing reliance on traditional coccidiostats.

Genetic resistance to coccidiosis is another promising avenue. Breeding chickens with inherent resistance traits can significantly reduce their dependency on medications, leading to healthier flocks and more sustainable production practices.

Ajao’s research underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of host-parasite interactions and the role of immunity in developing effective vaccination and breeding strategies.

The economic impact of coccidiosis is profound, with costs stemming from medication, reduced feed efficiency, and increased mortality. Regional variations in the prevalence of different Eimeria species necessitate tailored control measures to address local challenges effectively.

Ongoing research is critical, focusing on the genomics of Eimeria species, novel control methods, and the molecular interactions between host and parasite.

Advances in these areas are vital for the future of coccidiosis control in broiler chickens, ensuring the sustainability and profitability of poultry production worldwide.

Ajao’s work, deeply rooted in both academic research and practical applications, continues to make significant contributions to the field of poultry science.

His innovative approaches and dedication to improving poultry health and performance highlight the critical intersection of science and industry in addressing global challenges in animal agriculture.