Chemical Agents Used for Defaunation

Correct Answer: Both copper sulphate and sodium lauryl sulphate

• Copper sulphate (CuSO₄): Classic ciliostatic agent. Caution: repeated use causes Cu toxicity (sheep are most susceptible).
• Sodium lauryl sulphate: A detergent that disrupts protozoan cell membranes without major harm to bacteria.

Important Note

Ionophores (Monensin, Lasalocid) are NOT defaunating agents — they alter VFA profiles (increase propionate, decrease acetate) and reduce methane, but do not selectively remove protozoa.