Gastrointestinal roundworm parasitism in the striped harnessed antelope (roundworms)

What is it?

Gastrointestinal parasitism caused by roundworms (nematodes) is a very common condition in the striped harnessed antelope, an African forest antelope sometimes kept in zoological parks or captivity. These worms live in the animal's stomach and intestines. They feed on blood or digestive nutrients and gradually weaken the animal, especially young animals and those that are stressed or poorly nourished. Infestation is almost always present at low levels, but becomes true disease when the parasite burden exceeds what the animal's body can tolerate.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

The disease is caused by gastrointestinal nematodes, notably digestive strongyles similar to those affecting domestic cattle and small ruminants (genera such as Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Ostertagia or Cooperia depending on region). These worms lay eggs that are shed in feces; the larvae develop in the environment and are then re-ingested by the animal while grazing, completing the cycle.

Young animals, whether newly weaned or growing, are most vulnerable because their immune system is still immature. Captive housing in pens with high stocking density, wet ground, soiled and infrequently rotated pasture promote the buildup of infective larvae. Stress—such as transport, environmental changes, or contact with other species—along with unbalanced nutrition or warm, humid weather increases risk. Animals weakened by other diseases are more susceptible.

Transmission

Transmission occurs through indirect fecal-oral route: worm eggs are excreted in feces, develop into infective larvae in the environment (soil, vegetation), and are then ingested by the animal while grazing, with no direct contact between individuals necessary.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Treatment

Treatment involves antiparasitic drugs (dewormers) from different chemical families, selected by the veterinarian based on the worm species identified and any resistance concerns. Nutritional support and sometimes iron or protein supplementation may accompany treatment in cases of anemia or marked weight loss. The exact protocol, drugs, and doses must be determined by a veterinarian experienced in wildlife or exotic animals.

Prevention

Possible complications

Without treatment, heavy infestation can lead to severe anemia, irreversible growth retardation in young animals, general weakness favoring secondary infections, and in extreme cases death, especially in young or already compromised animals.

When to see a veterinarian

Prognosis

The prognosis is generally good if the infestation is detected and treated at an early stage. It becomes more guarded in young animals with heavy infestation or if severe anaemia and growth retardation are already established. Regular monitoring and good enclosure management usually allow serious forms to be prevented.

Frequently asked questions

References

WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)

ESCCAP — European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites

FAO — Organisation des Nations unies pour l'alimentation et l'agriculture

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 03 September 2026