Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Avian spirochaetosis is a severe, acute, septicemic disease of poultry caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia anserina.
It is characterized by high fever, green diarrhea, paralysis, and high mortality.
The transmission of this systemic pathogen relies on hematophagous arthropod vectors that feed on avian hosts.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us examine the biological role of the listed arthropods in transmitting Borrelia anserina:
1. Menopon gallinae (Shaft louse of poultry):
This is a biting louse that feeds on feather parts and epidermal debris.
Because it is not a primary blood-sucking parasite, it does not transmit blood-borne spirochetes.
Therefore, A is incorrect.
2. Echidnophaga gallinacea (Sticktight flea of poultry):
While it is a blood-sucking flea, it is not a vector for Borrelia anserina.
Therefore, B is incorrect.
3. Argas persicus (The fowl tick):
This soft tick is the primary, classic biological vector of Borrelia anserina.
The spirochete multiplies inside the tick and can be transmitted transovarianly and transstadially.
Tick bites or ingestion of infected ticks lead to infection.
Therefore, C is correct.
4. Dermanyssus gallinae (Red mite of poultry):
This is a common, highly active nocturnal blood-sucking mite of poultry.
It has been demonstrated to serve as an important vector capable of transmitting Borrelia anserina mechanically or biologically between birds.
Therefore, D is correct.
Thus, the vectors for Borrelia anserina are C and D.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Borrelia anserina is transmitted by the soft tick Argas persicus (C) and the red mite Dermanyssus gallinae (D).
Therefore, the correct answer is option (D).