关键词: 火鸡隐孢子虫, 人兽共患病, 感染特征, 防控措施

Abstract: To determine the pathogens responsible for diarrhea at a large-scale pigeon farm in Guangdong Province，this study diagnosed Cryptosporidium infection in affected pigeons using morphological identification， molecular techniques，phylogenetic analysis，and histopathological evaluation. The results confirmed infection with Cryptosporidium meleagridis （C. meleagridis），with an overall prevalence of 43.75% （7/16）. Histopathological examination revealed characteristic lesions，infiltration in the lamina propria of the ileum.. C. meleagridis is recognized as the third most common zoonotic Cryptosporidium species after C. parvum，highlighting its public health relevance. This study offers novel insights into the pathogenic causes of diarrhea in pigeons and provides critical data to support the scientific prevention and control of cryptosporidiosis in pigeon farming operations. Furthermore，the findings highlight the potential risk of fecal ? oral and waterborne transmission of this pathogen，emphasizing the need for developing effective strategies to mitigate its spread and ensure public health safety.

Key words: C. meleagridis, Zoonosis, Characteristics, Control measures