Antiprotozoal effects of surfactant detergents in the rumen of sheep

An in vivo method to estimate the antiprotozoal effects of detergents and other compounds is described. Dose rates of 10 g of active ingredient per sheep were injected directly into the rumen through a permanent cannula. Antiprotozoal effects were determined by visual counting of protozoa and plotting the reduction in concentrations, after treatment, with time. Anionic surfactants (Alkanates) were shown to be more effective defaunating agents than the nonionics (Teries). Holotrich ( Isotricha and Dasytricha ) and large Oligotrich ( Polyplastron, Epidinium, Eudiplodinium ) species of ciliate protozoa were more susceptible to defaunating agents than the smaller Oligotrichs ( Entodinium ).