Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the diversity, abundance, intensity, and seasonal distribution of parasites of Oreochromis niloticus. A total of 254 specimens of O. niloticus was sampled in Loumbila and Ziga reservoirs in both rainy and dry season and examined for parasites. The total prevalence was 55.90% and the highest seasonal prevalence, abundance and intensity were observed during the rainy season. Recorded parasites were the myxozoan Myxobolus tilapiae, the copepode Lamproglena monodi, the monogeneans Cichlidogyrus tilapiae, Cichlidogyrus halli, the digenetic trematode Clinostomum species, the nematode Paracamallanus cyathopharynx, and the acanthocephalan Acanthogyrus tilapiae. The latter species had higher prevalence (45.67%) and high abundance. L. monodi, C. tilapiae, C. halli, and P. cyathopharynx were only observed in Loumbila reservoir. A. tilapiae, Clinostomum spp. and M. tilapiae were found in both reservoirs with a high abundance. In conclusion, it was found out that O. niloticus specimens were heavy infection with a broad number of parasites. This situation could eventually reduce performance and productivity of the species, especially in aquaculture. Key words: Oreochromis niloticus, parasites, Loumbila reservoir, Ziga reservoir, Burkina Faso.
Highlights
Fish is an important source of protein to humans and other animals
L. monodi, C. tilapiae, C. halli, and P. cyathopharynx were only observed in Loumbila reservoir
Seven ectoparasites and endoparasites species were recovered from O. niloticus in Ziga and Loumbila reservoir
Summary
Fish is an important source of protein to humans and other animals. The tilapias are freshwater fish in the family of Cichlidae and they were considered to be more resistant compared to other species of cultured fish. Oreochromis niloticus, Sarotherodon galilaeus, and Tilapia ziilli are the major species in Burkina Faso fisheries. O. niloticus is a fast growing fish and has a great importance for fisheries, aquaculture, and screen aquarium. It is used extensively in biological and physiological research (Gómez-Márquez et al, 2003; Sandoval-Gío et al, 2008). The size and the stock of these species are decreasing in the Ziga and Loumbila
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