Abstract
This research was carried out to quantify the burden of gastrointestinal helminthes of fish sold in Makurdi, Nigeria. A total of 800 fish samples consisting of four species (Alestes nurse, Tilapia zilli, Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus) were purchased from fisher men at Wadata and Wurukum landing sites and taken to the Zoology Laboratory of Benue State University Makurdi for analysis. The length and weight of the fish samples were taken prior to dissection and parasites were recovered and identified following standard procedures. Data generated was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi square. Results indicated an overall prevalence of 90(11.25%) consisting of four parasite groups: Nematodes 74 (660.7%), Cestodes 10(8.93%), Trematodes 18(16.07%) and Acanthocephalans 10(8.93%) (P<0.05). Infection rate was higher (57.78%) in fish length range 21.00 - 25.9cm while those that fell within 6.00 -10.90cm and 11.00 – 15.90cm were not parasitized (P<0.05). It was also observed that fish within the standard weight range of 80.00g – 120.9g had the most number of parasites (p>0.05). Parasite density was highest (2.33%) in O. niloticus. The helminthes recovered were found to inhabit the Intestine 66(58.93%), Stomach 22(19.64%), Liver 20(8.92%), Gills 8(3.57%) and Muscle 6(5.36%) (P<0.05). Proper fish handling and preparation as well as screening of wild juveniles and parent stock is recommended to enhance aquaculture and prevent zoonosis
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