Study on Helminth Parasites in Tilapia nilotica from Lake Zeway, Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross sectional study was conducted in Lake Zeway on helminth parasites in Tilapia nilotica to determine the infection rate of helminth parasites. Gillnets were set in the evenings and retrieved in the mornings and fish were randomly sampled in fish production and marketing industry that were brought from different angles of the lake. The mesentery and the gastrointestinal tract were carefully separated and examined. Out of 400 specimens, 277 were examined 277(69.25%) infected with Clinostomum species. Metacercariae were found in the mesentery, and gastrointestinal tract, the brachial cavity, between the pharyngeal teeth and ventral side of cranium, and muscle. Immature and adult cestodes of the genus Bothriocephalus were found in the lumen of intestines with the proportion of (43)10.75% and (6)1.5% respectively of the diagnosed samples of fish 49(12.25%). Comprehensive information on existing fish parasites in Ethiopia and their epidemiological aspects is scanty. However, to decrease the infestation rate and break the life cycle of the parasite, proper waste disposal system and sanitation measures must be implemented. Key w ords : Bothriocephalus, Clinostomum, Helminth Parasites, Lake Zeway and Tilapia nilotica.