Authors : C.C. Ohaeri and M.C. Eluwa
Abstract: Tsetse fly populations were sampled for one year, from April 2003 to March 2004 using bioconical traps for catching the tsetse at Isuikwuato, Ohafia, Isiala-Ngwa, Ikwuano and Umuahia South L.G. As (derived savannah area) of Abia State, Nigeria. A total of 613 tsetse flies were captured and the prevalence of the Glossina species population structure and physiological status in the area were carried out. The survey found Glossina palpalis (90.7%) as the predominant tsetse species in the area. There were significantly more (p< 0.05) females than males in the species found. Higher tsetse density (p< 0.001) was encountered during the rainy season than in the dry season and among the areas sampled, Isuikwuato LGA recorded the highest number (p< 0.001) of tsetse flies caught. The tsetse population had higher proportion of hungry flies. The low prevalence rate observed here indicates a minimal effect on the population dynamics of the host of trypanosomes in Abia State, Nigeria.
C.C. Ohaeri and M.C. Eluwa , 2007. The Population Structure and Physiological Status of Tsetse Flies in Abia State, Nigeria . Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 6: 513-516.