Studies on the prevalence and control of helminth parasites of swine

• Main Author: Black, Joseph Dominic
• Published: Queen's University Belfast 2013
• Subjects: 636.2089696
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.600003

This thesis aimed to investigate the control strategies and prevalence of swine nematode endoparasites through a variety of approaches. Questionnaire data revealed that despite the lack of formal guidelines being in place for the management of pig production units in Northern Ireland, many farms employed the same basic principles with respect to animal husbandry and parasite control. The prevalence of endoparasites was monitored and the success of the current management strategies evaluated by their ability to reduce or control on farm parasite burdens. The majority of production units exhibited the presence of at least one endoparasite species with the most predominant being the gastrointestinal worm, Ascaris suum. The production stages most commonly infected were the weaners and the finishers. A combination of practices were the most effective management strategies in reducing parasite burden , including: weaning ages of 3-4 weeks; the use of 'All in All Out' strategies coupled with disinfection and wet feeding ; the implementation of slatted flooring as opposed to solid flooring; and , the use of anthelmintic treatment. Finally, alternative novel treatments other than anthelmintic chemotherapies were investigated. The potential anthelmintic properties of selected plant extracts were examined by in vestigating their physiological effects on nematode behaviour and muscle activity in the free-living model nematode Panagrellus redivivus and A. suum. From a range of extracts for which there was anecdotal evidence for antiparasite activity, only two were deemed active causing decreases in both worm locomotion and ovijector activity. Overall this study provides a snapshot of the current situation in modern pig production units, which al l strive for economic stability. The interplay between management regime and parasite incidence will ultimately influence policy optimization. Additionally the assessment of novel plant extracts may help identify a more natural, residue free helminth treatment method which could aid parasite control and the longer term stability of pig farming.