Parasitic nematodes are among the most common and economically important agents of infectious disease of grazing livestock, especially in small ruminants; in the tropics, subtropics and other parts of the world. Livestock production in tropical climates suffers heavy economic losses due to gastrointestinal parasites. The greatest losses associated with nematode parasite infections are sub-clinical, and economic assessment shows that the financial costs of internal parasitism are enormous. The loss is characterized by lower output of animal products (meat, milk, hides and skins), low manure, poor traction power, poor carcass quality/organ condemnation, death and medication costs, which all impact negatively on the livelihood of small holder farmers.

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