In poultry production, one of the most underestimated yet destructive pathogens is the Mycoplasma — a microscopic organism capable of inflicting serious health and economic damage. Although invisible to the naked eye, Mycoplasmas pose a substantial threat to flock performance, targeting both respiratory and reproductive systems in chickens, turkeys and other birds.
Unlike typical bacteria, Mycoplasmas lack a cell wall, making them naturally resistant to many antibiotics and exceptionally adaptable. This allows them to evade the immune system and persist in flocks for long periods. Once introduced, they spread easily through respiratory droplets, contaminated equipment, feed, water, or even vertically from infected breeder hens to their chicks.
The effects are costly and far-reaching. Young birds may fail to gain weight normally, while layers often experience sharp declines in egg production — sometimes by more than 20%. Egg quality may deteriorate, with thinner shells and poor hatchability, especially in breeder operations where embryonic mortality becomes a concern. Severe infections can lead to aerosacculitis and synovitis, causing breathing difficulties, joint pain, lameness, and increased mortality.
Economically, Mycoplasma infections raise veterinary expenses, worsen feed conversion ratios, and lower the market value of poultry products. Farms with positive cases risk losing access to premium or export markets that require strict disease-free certification. To make matters worse, these organisms can survive for days in dust, feathers, bedding, clothing, and equipment.
Mitigation requires strict biosecurity. Poultry houses must be routinely cleaned and disinfected, with staff following hygiene protocols such as dedicated clothing, sanitized footwear, and restricted movement between flocks. Visitors and vehicles should be carefully controlled to prevent accidental introduction of pathogens.
Sourcing chicks and hatching eggs from certified Mycoplasma-free farms is essential, along with routine surveillance and laboratory testing. In regions where vaccination is allowed, vaccines against the two most damaging species — Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae — can reduce disease severity, but vaccination must complement, not replace, strong biosecurity practices.
Optimal housing, proper nutrition, stable environmental conditions, and stress reduction also play vital roles in keeping flocks resilient. Stressors such as overcrowding, poor ventilation, or sudden temperature shifts weaken immunity and increase vulnerability to infection.
Mycoplasmas may be small, but their impact is substantial. Prevention, vigilance, and disciplined farm management remain the strongest defenses against this persistent and costly threat.
