Isolation and identification of Escherichia coli and Salmonella from poultry litter and feed

The research work was conducted to detect and characterize of Escherichia coli and Salmonella found in the poultry feed and litter. A total of 48 samples were collected from the different Broiler farms of Dinajpur district and brought to the laboratory. Samples were propagated in nutrient broth and nutrient agar media followed by culture on selective media– Eosin Methylene Blue Agar, MacConley agae, Brilliant Green Agar, Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Biochemical properties of the isolates were studied and reaction in TSI agar slant was also observed. Gram's staining techniques were performed. All the isolates those were found to have the specific morphological, cultural characteristics and were selected for biochemical test and microscopic examination after staining. The overall prevalence of E. coli and Salmonella spp. in 4 poultry farm were recorded 62.50 % and 49.91 % respectively. In feed sample the prevalence of E. coli was 37.50% whereas in litter sample it was 87.50%. The prevalence of Salmonella in feed sample was 29.16% and in litter sample 66.66%. The results suggest that poultry litter is the major source of both E. coli and Salmonella spp for birds reared in litter system. The presence of Salmonella at the recorded rate in both the feed and litter pose significant alarming for the public health issue if not maintain proper hygienic steps in place.