Effect of the digenean Isoparorchis hypselobagri (Billet, 1898) on an airbreathing fish Channa punctatus (Bloch) with particular reference to biochemical and haematological changes

Abstract

Abstract. Morphological, behavioural and haematological changes in Channa punctatus caused by infection with the digenean Isoparorchis hypselobagri are reported. Morphological changes include partial necrosis of fin tissue, scale loss (particularly along the opercula and caudal peduncle) and loss of pigmentation, together with considerable damage to the viscera, especially the gonads, and the abdominal muscles. Behavioural changes include partial or complete loss of equilibrium, irritability and convulsions. Haematological changes observed were a significant decrease in haemoglobin and haematocrit values resulting in hypochromicmacrocytic and normochromicnormocytic anaemia together with an increase in total leucocyte number. Significant decreases in blood glucose level and liver glycogen content were also observed. Some of the changes could be partially compensated by providing a bigger food ration. Compensatory effects were observed for haemoglobin and haematocrit values and leucocyte number. However, an increase in diet could not arrest the significant decrease in blood glucose level and liver glycogen content. The possible effects of parasitism on the utilization and productivity of C. punctatus are discussed.