Parasitic infection and prevalence in Clarias Gariepinus in Lake Gerio, Yola, Adamawa state

In aquaculture, some parasites may be highly pathogenic and contribute to high fish mortalities and economic loss, while in natural systems they may threaten the abundance and diversity of indigenous fish species.1 Parasites in fish are of concern since they often weakening the host`s immune system thereby increasing their susceptibility to secondary infections, resulting in the nutritive devaluation of fish and subsequent economic losses.2 Parasites also compete for food, thereby depriving fish of essential nutrients and inhibiting growth leading to morbidity and mortality with consequent economic losses.3 Under intensive fish culture conditions, parasites tend to proliferate, because of compromised water quality and other stress imposing factors.4 In recent times, attention has shifted to fish parasites due to increased aqua cultural practices. Several studies have been reported on parasites of cultured and wild fish.5 Parasites and bacteria may be of minimal significance under natural conditions, but can cause substantial problems when animals are crowded and stressed under culture conditions. Poor handling of fish is a major cause of both bacterial and parasitic infections. Translocation of fingerlings/ fry from one place to another without proper care can spread diseases and parasites. Increased nutrient levels due to intensive cage culture promote proliferation of parasites.