Gastro-intestinal Parasites of Pigs in some parts of Wukari, Taraba State, North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites infection of pigs (Sus scrofa) in some parts of Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Faecal samples were collected from 305 pigs comprising 140 males and 165 females from five locations within Wukari. The samples were examined for helminthe eggs and protozoan oocyst using floatation and sedimentation techniques. Of the 305 pigs examined, 238(78.03%) were found to be infected with the parasites. In order of abundance of the
parasites, Ascaris suum occurred more (66.56%) followed by Trichuris suis (9.84%) and Eimeria sp (1.64%). With respect to breed, the Large white 183(91.04%) pigs were found to harbour more of parasites with the highest number of infection than the mixed breed, 55(52.88%). Of the 140 male pigs examined, were infected 98 (70.00%) while of the 165 female pigs 140 (84.84%) were infected. Baconers (7-8 months old) were more susceptible (85.71%) to parasitic infection, than the Adults (9-months and
above) 77.27% when compared to the Pokers (70.00%) 5-6 months old. Statistical analysis showed that the infection rate between sexes of pigs differed significantly (P<0.05). Chi-Square analysis showed that the infection between breeds also varied significantly (P<0.05). Strategies intended to mitigate the intestinal parasitic infections of pigs in Wukari should take into account the identified intestinal parasite species.

Key words: Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, Eimeria sp, Sus scrofa, Wukari.