A Survey of Gastrointestinal Helminth Parasites and Haemoparasites of Tilapia zilli in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State

Abstract

The survey was carried out to determine prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites and haemoparasites of Tilapia zilli in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State. Fishes are good sources of quality proteins, but various diseases including helminth parasitic infections pose serious threats to them, which are valuable sources of income, food and employment opportunity in developing countries. A total of one hundred and ninety-two (192) Tilapia zilli of both sexes were selected randomly for this survey. Samples were collected, processed and examined. Parasites were isolated, identified, and preserved.  Out of 83 males examined, 59(71.1%) and out of 109 females examined, 72(66.1%) which was higher than the males. Statistically, there was no significant difference (P = 0.5) between prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites and haemoparasites in relation to the sex and weight. Acanthocephala sp, Diphylobothrium sp, Capillaria sp, Gnathostoma sp, Trypanosoma sp, Babesioma sp and Myxosoma sp respectively were recovered. Acanthocephala sp had the highest mean intensity for both sexes, (1.41) and Myxosoma sp had the lowest mean intensity, (2.00) respectively. In the research area, the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites and haemoparasites was high. Adequate monitoring and management of water bodies for fishes to strive for the sustainability of aquatic resources should be encouraged.