Gastrointestinal parasites of zoonotic importance detected in porcine faeces in Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Wild boar (Sus scrofa) is considered to be a potential source of zoonotic parasites. Wild boars are found at considerable number in and around the Chitwan National Park (CNP). The information regarding their intestinal parasites is limited. A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild boars in CNP. A total of 100 fresh fecal samples were subjected to microscopic examination using direct smear, floatation and sedimentation method. Overall, 95% fecal samples were found positive for at least one parasite. Prevalence of protozoan parasites was found comparatively higher (70%) followed by nematode (56%) and trematode (12%). Nine gastrointestinal parasites such as Eimeria sp. (70% without micropyle and 40% with micopyle), Fasciola sp. (12%), Strongyloides sp. (56%), strongyle-type nematodes (49%), Stephanurus sp. (44%), Globocephalus sp. (38%), Metastrongylus sp. (12%), Ascaris sp. (7%) and Trichuris sp. (6%). were recorded. Eimeria sp. exhibited the highest prevalence while Trichuris had the least prevalence. This study has provided baseline information regarding the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in wild boars. It requires continuous study at molecular level to explore other species of parasites and verify their zoonotic potential.