PhD defence by Amalie Camilla Pedersen

Parasitic helminths in alternative pig production systems - Infection dynamics and control

Assessment Committee:
Professor Kurt Buchmann, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen (Chairperson)
Professor Peter Lindberg Nejsum, Aarhus University
Dr Smaragda Sotiraki, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation

Supervisors:
Professor Stig Milan Thamsborg
Senior Advisor Helena Mejer
Assistant Professor Mita Eva Sengupta, Professor Andrew Richard Williams,

Department:
Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences

Graduate Programme:
Veterinary, Animal Health and Microbiological Sciences

Place:
1-05, Room: A1-05.01, Dyrlægevej 100, 1870 Frederiksberg C

Email address to gain access to the thesis: acp@sund.ku.dk 
You will either receive a copy of the thesis or be informed where you can read a physical copy.

Short description of the thesis:
As pig production increasingly moves towards more sustainable and animal-friendly systems, understanding how diseases spread in these environments becomes essential. This PhD thesis investigates parasitic worm infections in organic and agroforestry pig production, where pigs have access to outdoor areas and tree-covered paddocks. Through field studies and experimental research, the thesis explores how paddock design, animal behaviour, and parasite biology influence infection risk. It also examines early signs of drug resistance and evaluates plant-based alternatives to conventional deworming treatments. The findings contribute new knowledge that can support sustainable parasite control and improve animal health and welfare in future pig production systems.