The Diversity of Parasite Fauna and Characteristics of Ichthyoparasitocenoses in Fish from Fish Farming Ponds of the Republic of Moldova
Anastasia Lungu-Bucșan*, Mariana Caraman, Oleg Mașner, Aureliu Cebanu and Alexandru Moșu
ABSTRACT
The ecological condition of fish farming water bodies in the Republic of Moldova has significantly deteriorated due to water deficit, reduction of water surface and depth, siltation, overexploitation, and excessive anthropogenic pollution. These factors negatively affect aquatic ecosystems and contribute to increased morbidity and mortality in fish populations. Parasitic diseases represent one of the major causes of economic losses in aquaculture, especially under conditions of intensified fish farming characterized by high stocking densities, fertilization of ponds, and increased feeding practices.
The present study was based on ichthyopathological material collected from various fish ponds and reservoirs across the Republic of Moldova. Several fish species were examined, including common carp, silver carp, bighead carp, grass carp, crucian carp, catfish, pike, and pike-perch. Parasitological dissections and hydro chemical analyses of water were conducted using standard ichthyopathological research methods.
A total of 168 parasite species and unidentified forms were recorded, belonging to 15 taxonomic groups. The most representative groups were Ciliophora, Cnidospora, Monogenea, Trematoda, Nematoda, and Sporozoa. More than 40 species were identified as having epizootic significance. Certain fish species showed higher susceptibility to specific parasitic infections, such as argulosis, lernaeosis, ergasilosis, and eustrongylidosis.
The results indicate that the diversity and intensity of parasite infestations are strongly influenced by ecological conditions and hydrobiological characteristics of the studied water bodies. The study highlights the importance of ichthyo parasitological monitoring for assessing fish health and improving disease management strategies in aquaculture.
