Research by scientists at Aberystwyth University’s IBERS centre has revealed that rumen fluke (Calicophoron daubneyi) is now prevalent on Welsh farms. Research by the centre’s scientists, working with Welsh Young Farmers, found rumen fluke on over half of the farms they examined.

Rumen fluke, which is similar to the better-known parasite liver fluke (thought to cost the UK livestock industry around £300m a year), was previously thought to be rare, but the IBERS researchers said on Tuesday that their study has shed light on an emerging problem in the UK, about which information has been scarce until now.

Dr Hefin Williams, who led the research project commented, “Our research results reveal that rumen fluke is now very common in Wales with 61% of surveyed farms across the country testing positive for the parasite. Our climate is changing and increased rainfall and temperatures may increase the habitats for the mud snail which is confirmed as the main host for rumen fluke in Wales by this study.”

The results of the study also revealed that rumen fluke more commonly affected cattle than sheep, and the prevalence of the parasite was higher in Western Wales than in the East. The team didn't find heavy infections of both rumen and liver fluke, and further research is now being conducted to look at why this was.

The improved understanding of rumen fluke’s distribution in Wales is important, as there is no licensed drug for treatment of the fluke available in the UK, and information on its effects on infected cattle and sheep is still scarce. The Ibers researchers advised farmers to consult with their vets in the fluke are present on their farms, and noted that ponds, ditches and other wet or boggy areas can be potential habitats for the mud snails.