Program

Thoroughbred Horses

Research Organisation

The University of Melbourne

Objective Summary

To complete a research and development project on an alternative to current equine parasite management. To develop a biological control program that retains and environmentally sustainable horse farm by identifying native ground dwelling predators thatbreak the lifecycle of horse parasites. The lifecycle of horse parasites has a ground dwelling stage that is vulnerable to native and exotic predators. The predator’s lifestyle will be studied in relation to the effects of various horse wormers. Exotic dung beetles will be established on horse farms that help to aerate and fertilise the pasture increasing water absorbency and reducing faecal run-off into farm and community water supply.