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In a world–first trial, mosquitoes, rendered incapable of transmitting Dengue Fever by a bacteria called Wolbachia, were successfully released onto tropical areas of coastal Queensland where Dengue outbreaks often occur. Male mosquitoes made sterile by Wolbachia have also been released in the same area in an attempt to completely eradicate mosquito populations from the urban landscape.
Wolbachia are naturally occurring bacteria that parasitise many insects, and some nematodes, but not mammals, reptiles, birds or fish.
Again this month our feature article blurbs have been written by Dr Paul Nilon, a sheep veterinary consultant and our Tassie correspondent, who is also a member of the ParaBoss Technical Committee. It would be good to have your feedback on this new format—just reply to this email and let us know your thoughts.
from the WormBoss web site, introduction by Paul Nilon
Because fluke depend on snails associated with springs or slow-moving water they fall from people’s radar when it’s dry. This is a mistake, as dry conditions sometimes concentrate grazing around springs and waterways. Moreover, unlike intestinal worms, fluke may survive for years in a wide variety of hosts (not just sheep). So, when the season changes there can be a quick turnaround in fluke status. The full life cycle of fluke is on WormBoss, or have a look at the NSW Prime Fact. Sorry, West Australians, you only need to do it as a learning exercise. >> Read More.
from the FlyBoss web site, introduction by Paul Nilon
Although China dominates wool sales, a surprising amount of wool is going to European manufacturers that are very aware of environmental concerns surrounding processing and animal welfare at home in Australia. A previous feature article outlined European Ecolabel requirements. However, this is a blunt tool, and individual processors and manufacturers may impose additional requirements. A recent inquiry to the author from the German manufacturer Ortovox highlighted this. So, to give yourself the best chance of being compliant for all possible markets, adopt a low residue approach from the start. Critical elements include:
from the LiceBoss web site, introduction by Paul Nilon
The rationale for long-wool treatment is described here, and the decision making is aided by the Long Wool Lice Tool. If you need/decide to treat, hand jetting is a good, cost-effective option, provided it’s done diligently. A few things to consider:
from the WormBoss web site, introduction by Paul Nilon
Goats’ susceptibility to worms, the way they metabolise many drenches, and the limited array of available registered drenches mean that resistance develops quickly to many compounds. The principles of resistance management in goats are similar to sheep. The WormBoss site has recommendations for resistance management in goats. The most important points are: