Fish lice Argulus foliaceus infestation in gold fish Carassius auratus from Lucknow, U.P. India: A report

Abstract

The ornamental fish industry is a rapidly growing industry, providing employment opportunities to many people. Ornamental fishes are used for entertainment and decorative purposes in the whole world and goldfish is one of the most common fish species of ornamental fishes. Parasitic infections are great threat to ornamental fishes, causing heavy economical loss. Argulus foliaceus is a common crustacean ectoparasite of Goldfish C. auratus, which affects fish health and its production. As a parasite, Argulus impose severe health effects on fish health. Heavy parasitic infestations cause significant morbidity and mortility. Argulus also serves as a vector for several pathogens including bacteria, viruses and several other pathogens. Highly tolerance nature, direct life cycle, cosmopolitan distribution and unavailability of approved drugs for control and treatment of Argulosis, the problem becomes more severe. Proper screening, manual removing, sanitation and quarantine of incoming fish is the best way of prevention and control of Argulus infection.