Digital parasitology for small ruminant nematodes

Gastrointestinal nematodes, especially Haemonchus contortus, threaten small ruminant health, welfare, and productivity through anemia, production losses, and anthelmintic resistance. This opinion article presents digital parasitology as a framework to strengthen targeted selective treatment and integrated parasite management. We synthesize advances in AI-based FAMACHA scoring, smartphone hematocrit imaging, bioelectrical impedance analysis, radiofrequency sensing, radiofrequency identification-supported behavior monitoring, WebGIS decision support, and nutraceutical forage planning. These tools should not replace classical parasitology or veterinary judgment, but they can improve consistency, scalability, and farm-level decision-making. Key challenges include validation, affordability, explainability, model drift, device standardization, bias, veterinary oversight, and adoption. Digital tools could shift parasite control from blanket and/or reactive deworming to predictive, AI-guided prevention.