Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Fish Found in Waterworks Reservoir, in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract

Parasites that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract of fish, including protozoa and helminths, are of particular concern. These parasites not only affect the health and well-being of the fish population but also pose potential health risks to humans who consume them. The Water Works Reservoir, situated in the vibrant city of Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, serves as a critical source of freshwater fish, offering essential dietary protein to the local populace. A total number of 90 samples were collected and examined from water works reservoir. Lately lots of concern has been raised in respect of consumption of fishes from fairly polluted and polluted waters. This research intends to put to rest such concerns and check the parasite available in water works reservoir. Out of 90 samples from water works 47 were male and 43 were female. Male fish tended to have a relatively higher number of infestations 22 (46.80%) while the female fish recorded 20 (46.52%). A total of 86 adult worms, larval and eggs were found in the sampled fishes investigated, out of which Ascaris eggs were 20 (23.26%), Capilaria sp. 14 (16.28%), Metacercariae sp. 8 (9.31%), Camallanus sp. 8 (9.31%) Pleurocercoid or Coradium 5 (5.82%), Astiotrema sp. 5 (5.82), Miracidium larvae 3 (3.48%) and followed by Ascaridods (2.33%) as the least parasitic infestation. The study also shows the intestine was the most infested 51 (59.3%), followed by the stomach with 35 (40.69%). The findings of this study are expected to shed light on the safety of consuming fish from the reservoir and inform strategies for preserving the health and well-being of the local population.