Hematology and histopathology of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) infected with Acanthogyms sp. (Acanthocephala: Quadrigyridae)

Issue Date

1-2016

Abstract

This present study was performed to evaluate the effect of acanthocephalan parasite, Acanthogyms sp. on hematology and histopathology of Oreochromis niloticus. The worms were seen attached at the posterior region of the small intestine, with total prevalence of 74% (78 out 106 fish samples) and mean intensity of 7 parasites per fish. The hematological manifestation of the parasitized O. niloticus revealed a decreasing trend in the volume of hematocrit and RBC count as the intensity of infection increases. While in WBC, an increase in the count with increasing level of parasite infection was observed. Histopathological changes were examined in the intestines which were revealed by invasion of the parasite in the submucosa layer of the gut causing lesions and exfoliation of the mucosal layer. Proliferation of lymphocytes and eosinophilic granulocytes was also observed around the infected area indicating an immune response by the host. Erythrocytes were also found in the lumen of heavily infected fish indicating hemorrhage. Although histopathological changes were observed, this study revealed no severe effect on the hematology and general condition of the fish. Thus, concluding that infection by Acanthogyrus sp. has no significant effect on the immediate health of its fish host.

Source or Periodical Title

Ecology, Environment and Conservation

ISSN

0971-765X

Volume

22

Issue

1

Page

493-500

Document Type

Article

Language

English

Subject

Acanthogyms sp., Hematology, Histopathology, Oreochromis niloticus

Digital Copy

yes

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