Abstract
The gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) affect the growth rate and milk production of the small ruminants, resulting in considerable economic loss. For their control, the use of broad-spectrum anthelmintic is common, but due to drug resistance, their use is very restricted now. To overcome this dilemma, the utilization of nematophagous fungi (NF) is a promising alternative. The current research was the first study planned to check the natural occurrence of NF in Mansehra, KPK (Hilly area), Pakistan. Samples were collected in two seasons (Summer and Winter) from small ruminant livestock farms. Some soil along faecal deposit area was also collected as naturally occurring NF from the soil surrounding the faecal culture enters the faecal material to predate the larvae. Samples were cultivated on individual Petri dishes comprising 2% water agar with nematode larvae as bait Petri dishes were examined underneath the stereomicroscope weekly to check any fungal growth. The NF cultured on the Petri plates were then isolated and refined in pure cultures for identification procedure. Twenty-one species of NF were identified with the help of various identification keys. The highest overall frequency of occurrence was observed in the Summer season as compared to Winter. The most abundantly occurring NF were, Arthrobotrys robusta, A. oligospora, A. cladodes, A. conoides and Harpsporium anguillulae while, Dactylella heterospora and Cystopage lateralisa were the least identified predatory fungi in faecal/soil samples collectively in both seasons for all three years of sampling. The single most abundant NF species observed was A. oligospora and Arthrobohys was the overall predominant genus which was observed in Summer and Winter of all three years. It is concluded from the results of this study that NFs are naturally prevalent in faecal/soil samples of the study area, but their occurrence is more frequent in an environment with moderate temperature and relatively higher humidity compared to cold dry weather. (C) 2020 Friends Science Publishers