Habronema primarily affects which species?

Habronema is primarily known to affect horses. This parasitic infection is caused by the larvae of the Habronema species, which are found in the stomach of affected horses. The larvae can be transmitted through contaminated flies, which are common in horse environments.

Horses can experience a range of symptoms from mild irritation to more severe clinical signs, depending on the extent of the infestation and the underlying health of the horse. These may include gastritis, colic, or even skin lesions if the larvae migrate to areas outside the gastrointestinal tract. The relationship between horses and Habronema is significant as it underscores the importance of controlling fly populations and maintaining hygienic conditions in equine care to prevent this type of infection.

In contrast, the other species listed—cows, dogs, and cats—are less commonly associated with Habronema, as these parasites are specifically adapted to horses and their specific interactions with the environment and lifestyle.