Population levels of Phthiraptera on domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) (Anseriformes: Anatidae)

Three phthirapteran species (two Ischnocera and one Amblycera) were recovered from hundred ducks in district Bareilly and Rampur during 2011–2012. Prevalence of Anaticola crassicornis was comparatively higher (31 %) than that of Anatoecus dentatus (16 %) and Holomenpon leucoxanthum (28 %). However, the intensity of infestation of H. leucoxanthum (22.89) remained higher than the other two species. Distribution pattern of all lice were skewed but negative binomial model was not found to be a good fit. Sex ratios of all three species were skewed in favour of females (A. crassicornis—1:1.23, H. leucoxanthum—1:1.19, A. dentatus—1:1.72) and nymphal population exceeded the adult population (A. crassicornis—1:1.26, H. leucoxanthum—1:1.12, A. dentatus—1:1.61).