Assessment of the potential occurrence of streptococcus spp. And tilapia lake virus in a selected area in Sampaloc Lake, San Pablo City, laguna

Date

2025

Adviser

Aprhodite M. Macale

Principal

Mabel S. Buela

Abstract

Tilapia is one of the Philippines’ most economically and nutritionally significant aquaculture species. However, the sustainability of tilapia farming is threatened by two major aquatic pathogens, namely Streptococcus spp. and Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), both of which can cause mortality rates of up to 90% during mass outbreaks. This study investigates the potential occurrence of these pathogens in Sampaloc Lake, San Pablo City, Laguna, a significant site of intensive Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture in the Philippines. The research aimed to assess water quality parameters, perform fish necropsies, detect Streptococcus spp. through microbiological testing, and confirm TiLV presence using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Conducted under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office in Los Baños, Laguna, the study included on-site water and fish sampling and analysis, along with laboratory testing for pathogens. Findings demonstrated that five out of seven parameters, specifically water color, temperature, salinity, turbidity, and ammonia, were within the recommended standards. Fish necropsy revealed all normal external and internal clinical signs of the tilapia samples. However, the presence of Streptococcus spp. was detected during Gram staining in microbiological testing. The sample tested negative for TiLV. These findings highlight that despite the water being relatively clean, the fish appearing to be in good health, and TiLV being absent, there are carriers of Streptococcus spp. in the tilapia of Sampaloc Lake. To mitigate risks, the following actions are recommended: (1) maintain regular monitoring of water quality to support long-term data collection and policy development; (2) perform routine necropsies on tilapia to detect early signs of disease; (3) enforce microbiological testing of fingerlings before relocation to prevent disease spread; and (4) utilize PCR testing only when abnormalities are observed to ensure cost-effective surveillance. These efforts support sustainable aquaculture practices for disease management.

Language

English

Location

UP Rural High School

Document Type

Capstone

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