Method optimisation for prolonged laboratory storage of Ascaridia galli eggs

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Veterinary Entomology
• Nematology

Background:

• The chicken nematode Ascaridia galli is a significant poultry parasite.
• Reliable A. galli egg viability is crucial for in vivo and in vitro research.
• Current knowledge on optimal storage conditions for A. galli eggs is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine ideal storage conditions for maximizing A. galli egg viability.
• To identify storage parameters that maintain egg viability for extended periods.

Main Methods:

• A 2x2x3x5 factorial experimental design investigated temperature, oxygen availability, storage medium, and duration.
• Storage temperatures (4°C, 26°C), conditions (aerobic, anaerobic), media (water, 0.1N H2SO4, 2% formalin), and periods (4-20 weeks) were tested.
• Egg viability and embryonation capacity were assessed morphologically after storage.

Main Results:

• Optimal storage temperature and oxygen conditions were opposing: anaerobic at 4°C, aerobic at 26°C.
• Storage in 0.1N H2SO4 yielded significantly higher viability (54.7%) compared to formalin (49.2%) or water (37.3%).
• The combination of anaerobic conditions at 4°C or aerobic conditions at 26°C in 0.1N H2SO4 retained up to 72% viability at 20 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged storage of A. galli eggs requires specific, opposing aerobic conditions depending on temperature.
• 0.1N H2SO4 is the superior storage medium, preserving viability against degradation.
• Aerobic storage at 26°C in 0.1N H2SO4 is recommended for its simplicity and effectiveness.