Review on Major Parasitic Crustacean in Fish

Abstract

In this paper the major description, epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinical sign, diagnosis, treatment and control of parasitic crustaceans in fish has been reviewed. The major crustaceans parasites commonly encountered in cultured and wild fish are: copepods (ergasilidea and lernaeidae), branchiura (argulidae) and isopods). Members of the branchiura and isopod are relatively large and both sexes are parasitic, while copepods are the most common crustacean parasites are generally small to microscopic with both free-living and parasitic stages in their life cycle. These parasitic crustaceans are numerous and have worldwide distribution in fresh, brackish and salt water. Most of them can be seen with naked eyes as they attach to the gills, bodies and fins of the host. They are increasingly serious problem in cultured fish and can infect wild population. Usually they cause only minor harm to their hosts when present in small numbers. However, in case of heavy infections severe damage to skin, muscles, and gills tissue accompanied with secondary infections, and resulting in decreased production. Good health management and good environment management are crucial in avoiding occurrence of crustacean parasites.