Diseases of freshwater fishes in India and its treatment: A review

Abstract

India stands as one of the leading countries in aquaculture production, providing crucial economic support to many people in the country. However, the occurrence of diseases has emerged as a primary hindrance to the sustainable production and trade of aquaculture products. Various stress factors, including inadequate physicochemical and microbial quality of culture water, poor nutritional status as well as high stocking density, can lead to infections by opportunistic pathogens. The presence of different opportunistic bacterial pathogens and parasites poses a significant threat, causing substantial losses to the fish industry in terms of heightened morbidity and mortality, diminished growth, and increased expenses on the use of chemicals for preventive and control measures. Therefore, the present review sheds light on the common freshwater fish diseases in India and their treatment, aiming to promote sustainable aquaculture.