A study on prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in pig at Rangamati Sadar upzila of Rangamati district

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in pigs pose a significant challenge in the hilly areas of Bangladesh, where pig farming is a common livelihood. The aim of the study is to investigate the prevalence of GI parasites of pigs in Bangladesh. The study was conducted in different areas of Rangamati Sadar Upzila in May 2023. Fecal samples were collected from 13 pig farms (N=38) and examined by using direct smear and Stoll’s ova counting techniques. All animals were found infected with one or more species of parasites. Four species were identified, namely Ascaris suum (47.36%), Balantidium coli (39.48%), Fasciolopsis sp (7.90%), Strongyloides sp (5.26%). Age-specific analysis revealed that pigs aged between 6 and 12 months were more susceptible to parasitic infections. Ascaris suum was highly prevalent in this age group (45.24%). The study also indicated that female pigs exhibited a slightly higher susceptibility to gastrointestinal parasitic infections, with Ascaris suum being the most prevalent (50%). In terms of rearing systems, pigs in extensive rearing systems had a higher prevalence of Ascaris suum (46.67%) and Balantidium coli (36.67%) infections. Pigs with no prior anthelminthic exposure showed a higher prevalence of parasitic infections, particularly Ascaris suum (47.83%) and Balantidium coli (43.46%). Data showed that there was no significant (p>0.05). It can be said that this study represents a novel contribution to the field and can serve as a benchmark for future research in this area. Further research and improved management practices are recommended to decrease the high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in indigenous pig populations in this region.