Investigations on gastro-intestinals of Swine in Bwari, federal capital territory, Nigeria

The gastrointestinal (GI) health of swine is a significant determinant of their overall well-being, growth performance, and productivity. This study was aimed at determining prevalence and species diversity of GI parasites of swine (Sus scrofa) in Bwari Area Council, of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). About 5 g faecal samples each was collected from 120 domestic pigs, (58 male and 62 female), in randomly selected farms in the study area and, were analysed for GI parasites using standard flotation and sedimentation techniques. The results showed that 51 (42.50%) were infected with various GI parasites. The species encountered includes; Ascaris sp (32.29%), Oesophagostomum sp (17.64%), Strongyloides sp (13.73%), Metastrongylus sp (13.73%), Paragonimus sp (7.84%), Stephanurus sp (5.88%), Trichuris sp (3.92%) and, Oocysts of coccidia (25.49%) respectively. Breed-wise prevalence of infection showed local breeds had 14/28 (50.00%), exotic breed 15/32 (46.78%), and crossbreed 22/60 (36.67%). Sex-wise infection prevalence revealed 33/58 (56.90%) male and 18/62 (29.03%) female. Age-wise prevalence of infection showed adult pigs (>12 months) 31/57 (54.39%) and piglets (≤12 months) 20/63 (31.75%). Age and sex showed statistically significant difference (P<0.05). This study found that the pigs under investigation had a comparatively high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infections, which have a detrimental effect on their production and general well-being. Therefore, targeted management and intervention strategies should be considered to reduce their prevalence, and enhance the overall sustainability and profitability of swine farming in the area.