Molecular Detection and Characterization of Cryptosporidium species in Chickens From Commercial Farms and Live Bird Markets in Ibadan, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidiosis is an important intestinal disease of poultry with zoonotic implications. However, routine molecular surveillance remains limited in Nigeria's commercial poultry sector. This study aimed to detect and characterize Cryptosporidium species in commercial chickens and live bird markets (LBMs) in Ibadan, Oyo State, using microscopy and molecular methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 179 pooled dropping samples were collected from commercial farms and LBMs across eight sampling locations in seven local government areas. Samples were examined using modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and processed by nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene. RESULTS: Microscopy revealed an overall detection rate of 18.99% (34/179). Prevalence was higher in commercial farms (21.13%) than in LBMs (10.81%). Layers showed greater infection (23.17%) than broilers (15.46%), with birds aged 21-40 weeks most affected. Of the 34 microscopy-positive samples, five (14.70%) were PCR-confirmed: Cryptosporidium baileyi (4/34; 11.76%) and the zoonotic C. meleagridis (1/34; 2.94%). CONCLUSIONS: The detection of zoonotic C. meleagridis highlights a public health risk. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced biosecurity, targeted management practices, molecular surveillance, and farmer awareness to reduce cryptosporidiosis in poultry systems.