Checklist of parasitofauna of selected fish species of river Taraba, Nigeria

Abstract

The study on checklist of parasitofauna of selected fish species was conducted in River Taraba, Nigeria. A total of 420 specimens of O. niloticus, C. gariepinus, S. clarias, and S. nigrita of varying lengths and weights were randomly collected from fishermen at different landing sites along the Taraba River lasting for a period of eighteen (18) months (November 2021 to April 2023). Standard parasitological techniques were used to identify parasites in the study area. The results revealed a diverse array of parasites identified. A total of six parasite species from eight genera were collected from the study area, with an overall parasite prevalence rate of 14.52, including helminths (trematodes, cestodes, nematodes), and crustaceans. Prevalence, intensity, and parasite diversity varied among fish species, with some hosting multiple parasite taxa. Environmental factors, host specificity, and ecological interactions may influence parasite distribution in the river ecosystem. The studies therefore provide baseline data for future ecological and fisheries management strategies in River Taraba.