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Common Parasitic Diseases in Aquaculture
1.Anchor Worm Disease The anchor worm is a type of copepod parasite with a complex life cycle that requires several molts from egg to adult. It attaches to the surface of fish, with the female piercing the fish's body with its head while the rest of its body remains exposed. Initially, anchor worms appear white and hair-like, without egg sacs; as they develop, the body becomes increasingly transparent, making the gut and ovaries visible, often accompanied by green egg sacs. Mature anchor worms become murky and covered with attached algae. Infected fish often show localized skin bleeding and ulcers, which can impair feeding and growth. Commonly infected species include grass carp, bighead carp, and common carp.
2.Gill Fluke Disease Gill flukes belong to the class of ciliates and are parasitic organisms that move via cilia, primarily residing on the gills and skin surfaces of fish. Infected fish often display rapid breathing, reddening of gill filaments, and increased mucus secretion on the body surface. In severe cases, gill tissue necrosis can occur, leading to respiratory distress and death. Freshwater species such as crucian carp, common carp, and grass carp are particularly susceptible to gill fluke infections.
3.Ciliate Disease Ciliates are also common parasites in aquaculture, with various species such as Ichthyophthirius and Chilodonella. Ciliates primarily inhabit the skin, gills, and fins of fish, causing symptoms like whitening of the body surface, congestion of gill filaments, and tissue damage. In severe cases, this can impair the fish's respiratory and swimming abilities. Freshwater species like common carp, grass carp, and bighead carp are prone to ciliate infections.
4.White Spot Disease White spot disease, also known as “ich,” is caused by a small ciliate parasite called Ichthyophthirius multifiliis. This parasite burrows into the fish's epidermis, forming small white spots, and infects the skin and gills, leading to visible white lesions on the fish's surface. In severe infections, fish exhibit signs of distress, rubbing against surfaces, and may gradually weaken or die. Ich is commonly found in various freshwater fish species, particularly in densely stocked environments, such as common carp and goldfish.
These parasitic diseases not only impact fish health but also reduce farming efficiency. Therefore, regular monitoring of water quality, improving farming environments, and implementing effective control measures are crucial strategies for reducing parasitic infections.