ARGULUS OF INDIAN MAJOR CARPS IN SELECTED FISH FARMS OF MYMENSINGH

Abstract

Studies were conducted to investigate the infestations of Argulus of juvenile carps of Mymensingh region.  A total of 8 farms, four Government (Govt.) and four Private (Pvt.) fish farms were investigated Indian major carps - Catla (Catla catla), Rui (Labeo rohita) and Mrigal (Cirrhinus cirrhosus) during June, 2010 to May, 2012. Monthly samplings were carried out with 5 fish from each species and each farm. Altogether 2880 fish host were examined of which 940 hosts were found to be infested with Argulus during the study period. The Argulus were very common in body surface, base of the pelvic, pectoral, anal, caudal fin, muscle and mouth cavity of all fishes. Water quality and management practices were recorded in different farms. The risk of infestation by Argulus in carps significantly (p<0.001) increased when the water quality parameters were not maintained the optimum level. Prevalence (%), mean intensity and abundance were found to be species specific and also varied with seasons and management systems. Prevalence (%) of Argulus in carps was significantly (p< 0.001) higher in Pvt. farm than that of Govt. farms. The   prevalence (%) of Argulus were significantly ( p< 0.01) higher in rainy season. Rui was more susceptible than Catla and Mrigal by Argulus.