Eimeria

Eimeria is a genus of single-celled organisms (protozoa) in the family Eimeriidae that cause coccidiosis, an economically important and highly contagious intestinal tract disease in many species of animals, including farm animals, poultry, and domestic and wild birds. Infection with Eimeria is generally associated with a significant reduction in the animal's productivity due to poor feed conversion, diarrhea, dehydration and other related pathologies. Diagnosis and treatment depends on the species of Eimera and the type of infection, and may include antibiotics and/or amprolium, a coccidiostat. Vaccines are also available for some species of Eimeria from commercial companies. Understanding and controlling Eimeria is important for improving animal welfare and reducing the economic losses associated with coccidiosis.