Chapter: Health Management in Aquaculture: Parasitic diseases and pests

Cestode Infestations - Fish Diseases Caused by Parasites

Cestodes are endoparasitic tapeworms, body is ribbon-like, segmented or unsegmented, 5-70 mm long and with an anterior attachment organ called scolex armed with hooks or suckers .

Cestode Infestations

Cestodes are endoparasitic tapeworms, body is ribbon-like, segmented or unsegmented, 5-70 mm long and with an anterior attachment organ called scolex armed with hooks or suckers (Fig. 5-8).

CAUSATIVE AGENT:

Botriocephalus

SPECIES AFFECTED:

Carps, catfish, snakehead

GROSS SIGNS:

Affected fish are sluggish, with emaciated body because of non-feeding. This parasite is commonly found in intestine of fish.

EFFECTS ON HOST:

The parasite may induce hemorrhagic enteritis due to destruction of the intestinal epithelium. Adult stage of the parasite interferes with absorptive processes of the intestine and may reduce food intake. Secondary microbial infection is possible. Some fish cestodes are important human parasites.

DIAGNOSIS:

Gross examination of the intestine of host fish.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL:

• Elimination of intermediate hosts

• Disinfection of culture facilities with quicklime to destroy cestode eggs

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Health Management in Aquaculture: Parasitic diseases and pests : Cestode Infestations - Fish Diseases Caused by Parasites |