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The almond Terminalia catappa leaf extract has been used to prevent diseases and improve breeding in various fishes; however, their effects on the leaf fish Monocirrhus polyacanthus larviculture are unknown. We evaluated the effect of almond leaf extract on growth performance and survival of leaf fish larvae submitted to handling stress. Five concentrations of aqueous extract of almond leaf (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00 and 1.25 g/L) were evaluated with five replicates. Leaf fish larvae (15 larvae/L 0.1 cm and 0.001 g) were fed 100 Artemia nauplii per larvae twice a day along 15 days and then submitted to handling stress of total water exchange and T. catappa extract replacement. Untreated fish were used as control. The stressful management caused lower survival rate for larvae in the control group (22.2Â ± 3.14%, p

The aim of this study was to characterise possible histopathological and haemato-immunological changes after subclinical infection by S. agalactiae S13 serotype Ib. One hundred juveniles of Nile tilapia with average weight of 45 g were distributed in ten 90 L experimental units. After the acclimation period 25 fish were euthanised, and fragments of liver, spleen and posterior mid-intestine tissue were sampled to verify the integrity of the organs and blood samples taken to check the haematological profile. Fifty animals were used to verify the optimal dosage for the challenge. The remaining 25 fish were infected with S. agalactiae S13. After 96 h, tissue fragments from the liver, spleen and posterior mid-intestine and blood samples were collected. The analyses revealed that, 96 h after contagion, S. agalactiae S13 serotype Ib caused subclinical lesions in the liver and spleen that are not commonly described as pathognomonic, in addition to haematological alterations. These results allow a better understanding of sudden recurrent mortalities in Brazilian tilapia farms, since the serotype Ib of S. agalactiae causes inapparent infections and can remain lodged in internal organs and cause irreversible lesions and haemato-immunological alterations, therefore compromising physiological functions vital for the health of fish without revealing external clinical signs in the animals.

Annually, more than 2500 ornamental fish species are traded worldwide. Forty percent of these are from marine water. Some 98% of marine species are wild-caught from their natural habitat, and the majority subsequently exported. Wild fish frequently carry pathogens, which could induce diseases after the stress of capture. Neobenedenia melleni is a platyhelminth that mainly attaches to the skin and eyes of the host. It provokes dermal inflammation, epidermal loss, skin depigmentation, reduction in the number of mucous cells, and, consequently, decreased mucus protection, and declining immunological barriers. This makes fish susceptible to secondary infections. A total of 47 wild reef fish from a retailer were examined, suspected to be infected with ectoparasites. The morphological identification revealed N. melleni as a monogenean agent. One monogenean specimen was collected from the eye of each of the 40 fish analyzed to evaluate possible bacterial secondary infections using the matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) technique. The MALDI-TOF MS identified that 59% of monogenean collected from the eyes had bacteria, including some pathogenic to fish. This led us to believe that the ectoparasite can be a possible mechanical vector of pathogenic bacteria for fish culture and maintenance. The use of praziquantel as an antiparasitic agent is also discussed.

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the histological and hematological alterations of silver catfish Rhamdia quelen (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824) against intense parasitism by anchor worm Lernaea cyprinacea Linnaeus, 1758. Thirteen fish specimens were collected at the Fish Genetic Improvement Unit (EPAGRI/CEDAP), Brazil. After acclimatization, the fish were anesthetized for blood collection, and the samples were used for counting thrombocytes, total leukocytes, differential leukocytes and for quantification of total erythrocytes. Afterwards, the animals were euthanized, the parasites removed and quantified, and the portions of the affected tegument fixed in 10% buffered formalin. All the analyzed animals were parasitized by L. cyprinacea with mean intensity of 192 specimens per fish. The hematological profile of the animals was different from that reported for healthy fish. Immature leukocytes were the most abundant cells, followed by monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and periodic acid-Schiff-positive granular leukocytes. A small number of neutrophils were present in the bloodstream of parasitized fish, while histological examination evidenced the accumulation of this cell type near the place of infection by the parasite. Total leukocytes correlated significantly and positively (r = 0.6, p = 0.030) with the intensity of L. cyprinacea infection and the fish weight. Histological changes included hemorrhage, liquefactive necrosis and connective tissue disarrangement, necrosis, granulomatous inflammation, mononuclear and polynuclear inflammation, as well as hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the alarm and mucous cells. The L. cyprinacea infection intensity caused deleterious changes both in the hematological profile and the integument of R. quelen, confirming the pathogenic potential of this parasite to the affected fish species.

The aims of this study were to evaluate the inclusion of different concentrations of Lactobacillus plantarum in Nile tilapia diet and to verify histological effects on tissues of the animal organs, as well as to verify its effects on growth parameters and possible increase in the immune system. A total of 240 juveniles were distributed in 16 tanks arranged in a recirculation system. One control group and three treated groups (104, 106, and 108 colony-forming unit (CFU) g −1L. plantarum kg feed−1) were established in quadruplicate. After 35 days of supplementation, it was not possible to observe differences in growth rates and hematological parameters. However, in the kidney, there was a reduction in the presence of PAS-positive granular leukocytes (PAS-GL) between the collections (15 and 35 days). The liver had lower number of lesions related to loss of cordonal aspects of fish fed 108 CFU g−1 on day 15. Fish fed 104 and 108 CFU g−1 showed lower degree of congestion at day 35. The probiotic also provided a reduction in the number of melanomacrophage centers in the splenic tissue and an increase in the amount of goblet cells in the gut. The concentration 108 CFU g−1 of probiotic in diets increased the number of goblet cells, improved cordonal aspects, and reduced hepatic congestion, and indicated a possible improvement in the immunophysiological conditions of the fish.

This study aimed to evaluate the hematological profile and relative condition factor of naturally parasitized Nile tilapia from 12 fish farms in southern Brazil. A total of 240 fish were collected from four regions of the state of Santa Catarina. They were anesthetized, and the blood was collected by puncturing the caudal vein. Subsequently, the fish were necropsied for parasitological analysis. The results were compared with the Kruskal-Wallis test, and the correlations were verified with the Spearman test ( P < 0.05). The parasitological analysis revealed high infestations by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis on the fish gills of the south and west regions. The presence of Trichodina magna and Trichodina compacta was observed in low intensity on the body surface of fish from all facilities. Trichodina spp. was found in high intensity parasitizing the fish gills of northern, Itajai valley and western regions, nonetheless, in those regions, the presence of Monogenea, Cichlidogyrus sclerosus , and Cichlidogyrus halli , on fish gills was observed. The hematological profile presented altered parameters, featuring monocytosis and thrombocytopenia, possibly associated with high parasitic intensities. The observed correlations suggest that neutrophils and monocytes are directly involved in an organic defense against parasites. Monocytes are mainly targeted in the defense against I. multifiliis .

The present study aimed to contribute to the monogenean dactylogyrids that occur in C. auratus from an ornamental fish farm in southern Brazil. Samples of goldfish were obtained from a fish farm and the gills were removed and analysed to identify the species of Dactylogyrus to determine the levels of infestation. Three species of Dactylogyrus were found in the gills: Dactylogyrus anchoratus, Dactylogyrus baueri and Dactylogyrus formosus. The most prevalent species was D. baueri [prevalence (P) = 70%, mean intensity (MI) = 2.14 ± 1.21, mean abundance (MA) = 1.5 ± 1.43], followed by D. anchoratus (P = 60%, MI = 1.67 ± 0.81, MA = 1.00 ± 1.05) and D. formosus (P = 30%, MI = 1.66 ± 1.15, MA = 0.5 ± 1.64). Dactylogyrus anchoratus shares morphological characteristics with D. arcuatus by the similarity in shape of the haptor parts. Dactylogyrus baueri shows similarity to D. dulkeiti in relation to the pair of anchors and accessory piece of the male copulatory complex. Dactylogyrus formosus presents an accessory piece with branch and total length of the anchors smaller than D. anchoratus. This study reports the occurrence of D. anchoratus, D. baueri and D. formosus in goldfish cultured in southern Brazil. These monogenean species have been described in cyprinid fishes that have a wide geographic distribution with the result of the dissemination of the host in the world.

Essential oils are obtained from vegetal material and present antibacterial activities, antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal properties and may replace the use of chemotherapeutics for treating and prophylaxis in fish farm. The objective of this study was to verify the influence of essential oil of Mentha piperita in the prevention of Streptococcus in Nile tilapia. A total of 300 fish with approximately 5 g were divided into 20 tanks with 15 fish each were fed diet supplemented with essential oil at concentrations of Mentha 0.075%; Mentha 0.125%; Mentha 0.25% and two controls (commercial feed and feed+cereal alcohol) in quadruplicate, during 50 days. At the end of the supplementation period, four fish from each experimental unit were collected for hemato-immunological analysis and the rest of the animals were challenged against Streptococcus agalactiae intraperitoneally. During seven days after infection, the fish were monitored every three hours for mortality registration. Zootechnical performance indexes were measured based in the biometries each 15 days along the experimente and did not present significant difference as well as the hematological parameters. Total plasmatic protein was higher in fish fed Mentha 0.125% than those fed Mentha 0.25%. After the challenge, unlike the animals whose diet did not contain essential oil, the animals that received supplemented ration maintained their alimentary activity. The supplementation with the essential oil increased the resistance of the fish after the challenge with S. agalactiae and survival was significantly higher in fish fed with Mentha 0.25%.

This study evaluated the potential of alternative treatments against larval stages of Lernaea cyprinacea. For in vitro test, the nanoemulsified oils of Pinus sp. acicule and oleoresin were evaluated, along with Biogermex® (commercial product based on citrus biomass). For this, the motility of five larvae of the same stage (nauplii or copepodite) were evaluated in a 96-well microplate. Using the best results, on the in vivo test, fries of Rhamdia quelen were submitted to a long-term immersion bath (96 h) containing different concentrations of the product diluted directly in the water. It was possible to notice the antiparasitic potential of the oleoresin and the acicule of Pinus sp., as well as the citrus biomass extract against the parasites. The nanoemulsified oils successfully inhibited the development of nauplii (10 mg L(−1) in 24 h) and the fries showed to be tolerant to the presence of the compound (LC(50) 96 h—16.74 mg L(−1)). The concentration of 30.5 mg L(−1) of Biogermex® eliminated the copepodites within 24 h, being more efficient than Pinus sp. when tested at the same stage, at the times analyzed. The results obtained indicate a potential use of these compounds as prophylactic agents against L. cyprinacea.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:36:55Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-03-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Graduate Program in Zootechny State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS) Zona Rural Graduate Program in Animal Science Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul UFMS AQUOS - Aquatic Organisms Health Laboratory Aquaculture Department Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) LAPAD - Biological Laboratory and Cultivation of Freshwater Fish Aquaculture Department UFSC UNESP Aquaculture Center São Paulo State University (CAUNESP) Zona Rural UNESP Aquaculture Center São Paulo State University (CAUNESP) Zona Rural CNPq: 119737/2017-5 CNPq: 306635/2018-6 CNPq: 552395/2011-0

This study aimed to verify the effects of dietary supplementation with sodium butyrate and Lippia origanoides, combined and isolated, on the health and zootechnical performance of Nile tilapia juveniles Oreochromis niloticus. A total of 120 fish (5.38 ± 0.65 g) were randomly distributed in 12 experimental units and fed different experimental diets for 30 days, namely: commercial diet without supplementation (Unsupplemented); commercial diet supplemented with 0.5% sodium butyrate (Butyrate); commercial diet supplemented with 0.125% L. origanoides (Lippia) and commercial diet supplemented with a mixture of 0.5% sodium butyrate and 0.125% L. origanoides (Butyrate + Lippia). After preparing the experimental diets there was an increase in the pH of diet Butyrate when compared to the other diets. After 30 days the fish supplemented with Butyrate + Lippia showed reduction significate in the mean corpuscular haemoglobin, concentration of total heterotrophic bacteria in the intestine, and lymphocyte infiltrates in the liver. Besides that, the supplementation with Butyrate + Lippia promoted an increased number of intestinal villi compared to the fish Unsupplemented ones. Additionally, fish fed a diet containing only Lippia presented an increase in the villus perimeter in the posterior region of the gut and in the red blood cell number. Animals supplemented only with sodium butyrate demonstrated increased lactic acid bacterium in the gut and macrosteatosis in the liver, besides decreased melanomacrophages in the spleen. The use of sodium butyrate associated with essential oil had positive effects on the intestinal microbiota, intestinal structure, liver, and spleen integrity, suggesting a greater efficiency of the compounds when used together in the nutrition of Nile tilapia juveniles.

Pocos estudios han sido hechos para evaluar la preferencia por el microhabitat de monogenea. Este estudio evaluó la distribución y estacionalidad de monogenea entre los diferentes arcos branquiales de tilapia del Nilo. Un total de 89 peces fueron capturados en una laguna en la ciudad de Chapecó, Santa Catarina, para el análisis parasitológico. Después de la eutanasia de los peces, fueron extraídos los arcos branquiales separadamente a partir de la región externa hasta la interna y numerados como I, II, III e IV. Fueron evaluadas la transparencia del agua, el pH, el oxigeno disuelto, la temperatura, la alcalinidad, la conductividad, el amonio, el hierro, el ortofosfato, el sulfato, el nitrito y el nitrato. En la primavera de 2008 las abundancias promedio de monogenea (Scutogyrus longicornis, Cychlidogyrus sclerosus, C. thurstonae y C. tilapiae) en los arcos I, II, III y IV fueron, respectivamente, 11,45; 14,45; 13,8; 13,15; en el verano de 2008 de 13,12; 12,25; 14,94; 21,53; en el verano de 2009 de 2,75; 3,25; 2,45; 2,45; en el otoño de 2009 de 13,44; 18,78; 11,78; 9,22 y en el invierno de 2009 de 0,35; 0,5; 0,3; 0,5. No fue observada preferencia por monogenea por el microhabitat en las branquias de la tilapia del Nilo en cultivo. Fue observado un aumento significativo de los helmintos en la primavera y verano de 2008 y otoño de 2009. El mayor número de parásitos coincidió con las estaciones de mayor temperatura del agua. La falta de preferencia por microhabitat entre los arcos branquiales sugiere una distribución homogénea de los parásitos combinados con los parámetros de calidad de agua.

Resumo: Este estudo avaliou os parâmetros hematológicos de híbridos tambacu e patinga cultivados no Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil, com ênfase na influência das épocas do ano. Duzentos e quarenta peixes híbridos, 120 tambacus e 120 patingas, foram coletados ao longo de 12 meses para análises hematológicas, comparando a estação quente (Outubro-Março) com a estação fria (Abril-Setembro). Os parâmetros de qualidade de água foram medidos semanalmente, para verificar sua influência sobre os parâmetros hematológicos. A estação quente mostrou tendência ao declínio nos níveis de oxigênio dissolvido, enquanto na estação fria ocorreu o inverso. Na estação quente, tambacus apresentaram valores mais altos (p

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-29T08:34:53Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) This study evaluated the dietary supplementation of ginger Zingiber officinale essential oil for the Neotropical catfish Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum, its effects on fish hematology, immunology, the response of these variables to induction of stress (exposition to air for 3 min), and a bacterial challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila, and the effects on liver histomorphometry. Three levels of the ginger essential oil were evaluated (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%) in addition to a control group (0%) in a feeding trial for 65 days in triplicate. Fish hematology and immunology were assessed at five different moments: after the feeding trial (0), after the stress induction (stress), and three points after the bacterial challenge (3, 6 and 24 h post-challenge). Fish fed the ginger essential oil supplemented diets did not exhibit significant differences between the hematocrit at the 0-sample point and the 24 h post-challenge point (P ≥ 0.05), while fish fed the control diet presented significantly lower values for the hematocrit when comparing those same two moments (P < 0.05). The thrombocytes count for fish fed the 0.5% essential oil supplemented diet was significantly higher than all other groups after the feeding trial (P < 0.05), and their total leukocytes count after the stress induction was also significantly higher than the other treatments (P < 0.05). Although the results mentioned above indicate that the ginger essential oil had positive health effects on the fish, no significant differences in survival after the challenge with A. hydrophila were observed (P ≥ 0.05). Lastly, histomorphometry suggests that the essential oil did not negatively impact fish hepatocytes. Postgraduate Program in Animal Science Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS) AQUOS-Aquatic Organisms Health Laboratory Aquaculture Department Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) Marine Shrimp Laboratory (LCM) Aquaculture Department Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS), Zona Rural Aquaculture Center São Paulo State University (CAUNESP) EMBRAPA Western Amazon Postgraduate Program in Zootechny State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS) Aquaculture Center São Paulo State University (CAUNESP) CNPq: 306635/2018-6

This study evaluated the in vitro and in vivo parasiticidal efficacy of the essential oils of Mentha piperita, Lippia alba and Zingiber officinale on Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (acanthocephalan) and their effect when used as dietary supplementation on hematological parameters of Colossoma macropomum. For the in vitro assay, the parasites were exposed to five different concentrations (360, 540, 720, 1440, and 2880 mg L−1) of the essential oils diluted in 3% Tween 80, for incubation period of 24 hs observed each 15 min. The essential oil of M. piperita caused mortality of 100 % of the parasites in 2 h in the concentration (540 mg L−1), compared to the essential oils of L. alba and Z. officinale. For the in vivo tests, 210 juvenile tambaqui were used; they were fed for 30 days with either the control diet and experimental diets consisting of supplementation with essential oils: control, M. piperita 0.54 g kg−1 and 2.88 g kg−1, L. alba 1.44 g kg-1 and 2.88 g kg−1, Z. officinale 1.44 g kg−1 and 2.88 g kg−1, in triplicate, resulting in 21 experimental units (10 fish per tank). The anthelmintic activity in the animals treated using diets supplemented with M. piperita at 0.54 and 2.88 g kg−1 were 85.46 % and 70.03 %; with L. alba 1.44 and 2.88 g kg−1 were 67.10 % and 56.93 %, and with Z. officinale 1.44 and 2.88 g kg−1 were 11.70 % and 5.19 %, respectively. Total red blood cells count and thrombocytes were higher in fish treated with M. piperita at 0.54 g kg−1 and Z. officinale at 1.44 g kg−1. The supplementation with essential oil of M. piperita at 0.54 g kg−1 was effective in the control of N. buttnerae and presented better specific growth rate. However, despite these promising results, more research is needed to validate their use in commercial production.

This study aimed to explore different substances (or cold sea water) as potential anesthetic agents to facilitate short-term handling in Octopus maya juveniles. We investigated oxygen consumption before (baseline), during (first 600 s of exposure) and after anesthesia (recovery) of octopuses (n = 98; 1.67 ± 0.5 g) exposed to cold sea water (SW; 11 and 13°C), ethanol (EtOH; 0.5; 1.5 and 3.0%), magnesium chloride (MgCl2; 0.75; 1.5 and 3.75%), ethanol combined with magnesium chloride (Mix; 1.5:0.75%; 0.75:1.13%; and 2.25:0.37%) and clove oil (0.15 mL L–1). After exposure, the animals were handled for 180 s (exposed to air) and weighted. Two experimental groups not exposed to anesthetics (with or without handling) were also evaluated. The criteria for general anesthesia were analysed. Times of induction and recovery, incidence of attack response after recovery and possible longer-term effects of repeated general anesthesia on growth and mortality of the octopuses were evaluated. During anesthesia, O. maya juveniles exposed to SW (11 and 13°C), EtOH (0.5; 1.5 and 3.0%), Mix (0.75:1.13%), and clove oil, presented a significant decrease on oxygen consumption. In animals exposed to different concentrations of EtOH and Mix 0.75:1.13%, this decrease was registered after an increase on oxygen consumption. Animals exposed to MgCl2 did not show significant changes on oxygen consumption, except for animals exposed MgCl2 3.75%, which showed a significant increase on oxygen consumption. At the end of recovery, except for octopuses exposed to clove oil and MgCl2 0.75%, the values of oxygen consumption observed were comparable to the ones registered during baseline. Animals exposed to SW 11°C, EtOH 3.0%, Mix 1.5:0.75% and MgCl2 3.75% fulfilled the criteria defined for general anesthesia. Exposure to MgCl2 (all concentrations), SW 13°C and clove oil reduced or inhibited the incidence of attack response after recovery. Except for animals exposed to clove oil, growth of the juveniles was not affected by the exposure to the different substances. Short-term handling (180 s) of O. maya juveniles can eventually be carried out without anesthesia. However, to facilitated handling, we suggest the use of EtOH 3.0% or cold sea water 11°C.

The present study proposes to characterize the parasites isolated during the initial phase of production in fish farms located in Mato Grosso do Sul in the central-western region of Brazil, using histopathology analysis and molecular techniques. A total of 340 hybrid surubim fish (Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum × P. corruscans) from four farms were examined during the co-feeding phase. Histopathology analysis showed that 10.9% (n = 37) of the fish were infected with parasites. Branchitis, lifting epithelium, hypertrophy of epithelial cells, lamellar fusion, aneurisms and infection in the bone tissue of the gill filament was observed. The parasite species was determined by amplification of the 18S rRNA gene followed by sequencing. The phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences indicates a close relationship (99.6%) with Henneguya pseudoplatystoma reported to be infecting the hybrid Pseudoplatystoma. This study demonstrates the occurrence of H. pseudoplatystoma in hybrid surubim (P. reticulatum × P. corruscans) during the co-feeding phase in fish farms in Mato Grosso do Sul. Also, molecular techniques provide a faster and sensitive method to identify fish parasites, and may assist in the development of new management techniques aimed at improving the sanitary conditions contributing to the reduction of mortality rates in these animals.

This study evaluated the use in vitro and in vivo of Bixa orellana seed extracts on the hematological and biochemical parameters of Colossoma macropomum co-infected with bacterium and monogenean, Anacanthorus spathulatus. The extract presented antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity in vitro against the pathogens. Fish supported the toxicity test and in vivo assay used 180 fish distributed in six treatments in triplicate: non-parasitized fish non-injected with A. hydrophila; non-parasitized fish non-injected exposed to acetone 0.2%; parasitized fish injected non-treated with the extract; parasitized fish injected treated with 125 μg mL−1 of extract in 2 h bath for two consecutive days; parasitized fish injected treated with 250 μg mL−1 of extract in 2 h bath for two consecutive days; parasitized fish injected treated with 125 μg mL−1 of extract for 12 h. After last bath, the fish were examined. Acetonic extract showed minimal inhibitory concentration of 125 μg mL−1 against A. hydrophila in the in vitro test and 100% efficacy against monogenean with therapeutic baths in relation to control non-treated in the in vivo test. Aeromonas hydrophila infection did not cause mortality. The gross pathology analysis showed ascites and hemorrhagic liver, kidney and spleen. Increased hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and total number of erythrocytes was followed by a decrease in hematocrit percentage in non-treated fish compared to basal group. Lymphocytes from fish in the control group were higher than in the other groups. Glucose was higher in treated fish than that found in those of basal and control. The results demonstrated that B. orellana bath was an effective alternative to treat fish diseases.

Isopods from the family Cymothoidae are fish ectoparasites displaying low host specificity found commonly attached to the gills, mouth, opercular cavity, nostrils and body surface of several host species. Damage can vary according to the degree of parasitism and the infestation site and may provoke respiratory discomfort in hosts. The aim of this study was to report the occurrence of a Nerocila sp. Leach, 1818 isopod parasitizing Mugil liza Valenciennes, 1836 captured in the Babitonga Bay, Santa Catarina State, Brazil. The female parasite specimen was recovered from the pectoral fin of M. liza and was 24 mm in length and 11 mm in width, and the mean egg size was 1.18 ± 0.08 x 1.03 ± 0.06 mm. Isópodes da família Cymothoidae são ectoparasitos de peixes, com baixa especificidade de hospedeiros, comumente encontrados fixados nas brânquias, boca, cavidade opercular, narinas e tegumento de ampla variedade de hospedeiros. Os danos causados são variáveis em função do grau de parasitismo e do sítio de infestação e podem provocar desconforto respiratório nos hospedeiros. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar a ocorrência do isópode Nerocila sp. Leach, 1818 parasitando Mugil liza Valenciennes, 1836, capturada na Baía da Babitonga, estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Uma fêmea de 24 mm de comprimento e 11 mm de largura, contendo ovos de 1.18 ± 0.08 x 1.03 ± 0.06 mm, foi encontrada na nadadeira peitoral de M. liza.

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is the most farmed freshwater fish in the world, however, disease outbreaks are the main cause of losses in production. Due to this, there is an increasing interest in natural products for enhancing disease resistance, without causing physiological impairment. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of the essential oils of clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) on physiological and immunological parameters of nile tilapia. After 35 and 55 days of supplementation (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5%), blood collection was performed for determination of metabolites (glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, serum total protein and immunoglobulins) and lysozyme activity. Spleen tissue was also collected at 55 days for analyzing melanomacrophages centers. At 35 days, cholesterol showed significant reduction in the treatments 0.5% and 1.5 ginger and 1.5% clove basil. The serum triglycerides showed significant reduction in these same treatments, in addition to 1.0% clove basil. At 55 days all the supplemented groups showed significant reduction for both parameters. The lysozyme activity at 35 days was significantly higher in fish supplemented with 1.0% ginger and showed no difference among the treatments at 55 days. Regarding the melanomacrophage centers, at 35 days increased number in fish supplemented with 0.5% clove basil was observed but with no significant difference in the total percent area of spleen occupied by centers. The levels of glucose, total serum protein and immunoglobulins did not show significant differences in both sampling times. The addition of essential oils showed to be useful for improving physiological status of the fish, without excessive activation of defense mechanisms.

Confinement is a stressful practice for fish, which can culminate in tissue damage and production losses. Histopathological examination is a technique capable of forthcoming the normal and pathological conditions in fish. It reflects the animal's health and welfare, being able to apply measures to mitigate the stress and diseases in fish farming. This study evaluated the health status of cultured Nile tilapia using histopathological examination as a tool. Fragments of gills, liver, heart and spleen of 60 tilapias from fish farms in southern Brazil were collected and fixed. All crops were free of sanitary problems and fish were clinically healthy. This study showed a positive correlation between Trichodina species, protozoans and hyperplasic epithelium in the secondary lamellae and lamellar fusion, as well as the role of parasites in the inflammatory response in tilapia gills. Nonetheless, alterations such as hyperplasia of interlamellar epithelium were persistent even in non-parasitized animals, suggesting being an adaptation to the confinement environment. The presence of melanomacrophage centers in the liver and spleen were characteristic of the chronic stress that the cultured fish are exposed to. Histological findings such as epitheliocystis in the gills and bacterial colonies in the liver, spleen and heart, showed that even with absence of mortality, bacteremia were present in healthy farmed fish, as well as the parasitic diseases culminating in mixed infections. This study presented unprecedented results on tissue changes in farmed tilapia, serving as an assistance for what can be considered normal in the histopathological examination in farmed fish. Fish herein used did not present any production loss and did not have the relative condition factor (Kn) influenced by the changes, indicating a good health status. Thus, this study reports the first occurrence of epitheliocystis in tilapia gills grown in southern Brazil.

This study evaluated the hematological profile and condition factor (Kn) of tui chub Siphateles bicolor and fathead minnow Pimephales promelas and their associations with larvae of Contracaecum sp. infection of the heart. A total of 30 tui chub and 17 fathead minnow were collected from Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon, USA, measured, and weighed and blood was drawn for hematological analysis. Nematode larvae parasitized tui chub with a prevalence of 50% and mean intensity of 1.40, while 11.8% of fathead minnow were parasitized at a mean intensity of 1.0. Non-parasitized tui chub were significantly larger than the parasitized fish, indicating that small fish could be easily predated by the definitive host, a piscivorous bird. Although the relatively large worm occupied a large portion of the atrium, the presence of the larvae did not affect tui chub Kn, possibly associated with low parasite intensity and a harmonic co-evolution. Only parasitized fathead minnow showed significant differences in red blood cell measurements (greater cell width and larger nuclei) compared to non-parasitized fish. Lymphocytes were the most common white blood cells found in tui chub, followed by neutrophils, monocytes, and periodic acid-Schiff positive granular leukocytes; in fathead minnow lymphocytes were followed by heterophils, monocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils. This study is the first report of Kn and description of blood cells and hematological parameters in these fish species.

The present study aimed to evaluate the health status of Octopus maya females on different days after spawning (days 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40). A total of 25 O. maya females were examined in terms of physiological (i.e., weight loss, hepatosomatic and gonadosomatic indexes, and hemocyanin, protein, glucose, cholesterol, and acylglycerides concentrations in plasma) and immunological variables (i.e., total hemocyte count, hemagglutination, and phenoloxidase activity). We hypothesized that O. maya females should maintain their physiological integrity throughout the post-spawning period until the hatching of the offspring. Results showed that the physiological and immunological indicators measured in post-spawning females significantly changed with time. Loss of body weight over time and a decrease in the hepatosomatic and gonadosomatic indexes were observed. Hemolymph components showed variations that reflect the consumption of reserves and coincide with an increased immune process of hemagglutination and phenoloxidase activity in hemocytes. Our results demonstrate that O. maya females are adapted to maintain an adequate state of health to care for their spawn despite the long period of starvation and contribute to the identification of the mechanisms involved in maintaining the integrity of these animals during one of the most critical phases of their life cycle.

Nile tilapia is the most farmed freshwater fish, however disease outbreaks are the main cause of losses in the production. Active compounds from plants are an alternative to synthetic chemicals to enhance growth and disease resistance. This study aimed to verify the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils of clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) on tilapia, regarding growth, hemato-immunological parameters and survival to challenge with S. agalactiae. Juveniles fed for 55 days with supplemented diets (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5%) were challenged by gavage with S. agalactiae and monitored for 10 days. At 35 and 55 days of supplementation and 10 days after infection, blood was collected for hemato-immunological assays. For growth parameters, fish were weighed every 10 days. Clove basil at 0.5% significantly improved (p Statement of relevance This study reports the use of natural compounds for prophylactic purposes as an alternative to chemical antibiotics, whose hazardous consequences regarding environmental and health questions have been reported. Streptococcus agalactiae is a highly pathogenic and potentially zoonotic bacteria affecting farmed tilapia. The tested compounds proved to enhance the growth and immune response of fish against S. agalactiae.

The monogenean parasites are one of the most important pathogens causing economic losses in fish farming worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate parasitological indexes of Gussevia spiralocirra in juvenile Pterophyllum scalare , in the warm and cool season. A total of 34 fish were examined for parasitological analysis and the water quality was measured during the experimental period. The gills were fixed in 5% formalin solution for quantification and the parasites were mounted in Hoyer´s medium for identification. The parasitic species was identified as Gussevia spiralocirra , and presented a prevalence of 100%. The mean abundance and mean intensity of infestation were significantly higher in fish during the warm season (784.0 ± 393.9) than that observed in the cool season (418.0 ± 111.2). Temperature did influence the biology of G. spiralocirra possibly by increasing the oviposition rate. This study presents important data that can be used for implementation of best management practices in ornamental P. scalare farming, especially in the hottest seasons of the year.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the dietary supplementation of levamisole hydrochloride on Oreochromis niloticus lipid and protein profiles through matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and possible tissue lesions by histopathological analyzes. A total of 320 fingerlings were distributed into the following groups: fish fed supplemented diets with 100, 150 and 200 mg of levamisole kg−1 and fish fed a diet receiving no supplementation. After 8 days of feeding, stomach histopathology showed that fish fed the 100 and 150 mg kg−1 levamisole supplemented diets had a significantly lower intensity in the degeneration of columnar epithelial cells when compared to the control group (p

Dietary supplementation with probiotics in animal production is an alternative to antibiotics. In frog culture, studies involving native strains of probiotic bacteria and their effects on the performance and intestinal histology of farmed animals are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate a diet supplemented with Lactobacillus sp. in tadpoles of Lithobates catesbeianus. This randomized test was performed with two dietary treatments: non-supplemented control diet and diet supplemented with Lactobacillus sp., with nine replications. The growth performance of Lactobacillus sp., including its bacterial enzymatic activity and stability in feed, as well as colonization and histology of the intestinal tract, was evaluated after 42 days of experimentation. Animals fed with a supplemented diet showed higher weight gain and concentration of lactic acid bacteria in the gut and lower feed conversion. No significant difference was observed in survival, total heterotrophic bacterial count or histological change in the gut between the two treatments. The Lactobacillus sp. strain was able to colonize the intestinal tract and feed and remain at a high concentration of 107 and 106 CFU g−1, respectively. It produced several enzymes, which might have contributed to the greater weight gain and lower feed conversion in the supplemented animals, thus demonstrating its probiotic potential for use as a dietary supplement in bullfrog tadpoles.

This study evaluated the efficacy of mebendazole treatment in supplemented diet against the monogeneans Anacanthorus spathulatus , Notozotecium janauachensis and Mymarothecium boegeri gill parasites of an important native farmed characid fish Colossoma macropomum as well as its effect on the fish physiology. Fish were fed supplemented diet with 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g mebendazole (MBZ)·kg − 1 dry ration for 14 days. Parasitological analysis and blood collection were performed at 7 and 14 days after feeding. Anacanthorus spathulatus was more resistant to than N . janauachensis , and M. boegeri was more sensitive to treatment. On the other hand, good results in terms of disease control were found when analyzing the parasitological index (prevalence, mean intensity and mean abundance) and the fish physiological response. Fish fed 1.0 g MBZ·kg − 1 dry ration for 14 days showed 89.2% of efficacy. Mebendazole treatment did not affect the glucose, hemoglobin, red blood cells count, sodium and potassium concentrations. Furthermore, has proved to be effective in controlling monogenea parasites in C. macropomum . Statement of relevance Colossoma macropomum commonly known as tambaqui or cachama is one of the most native farmed characid fish in South America. North of Brazil has the main tambaqui production, however obstacles interfere in the fish health like ectoparasites. Besides the best management practices, alternative treatments must be pointed out to keep the homeostasis of the host under parasite infestation. This study focused the treatment of monogenean helminth parasites in the gills of C. macropomum and its effects on the hematological parameters and plasma ions.

This study evaluated the use of therapeutic baths with acetone extract of Bixa orellana seeds on the hematological, biochemical and hormonal parameters and plasma cortisol levels of tambaqui ( Colossoma macropomum ) parasitized by the monogenean Anacanthorus spathulatus . The extract showed in vitro anthelmintic activity against the parasites, and the fish tolerated the concentrations used in the toxicity test. Based on these results, an in vivo test was performed. A total of 180 juveniles of tambaqui were divided into six treatment groups in triplicate: group 1: basal (fish non-treated and non-parasitized), group 2: exposed to acetone 0.2% and parasitized fish, group 3: control (non-treated and parasitized fish), group 4: parasitized fish treated with 125 μg·mL − 1 of annatto extract for 2 h bath for two consecutive days, group 5: parasitized fish treated with 250 μg·mL − 1 of annatto extract for 2 h bath for two consecutive days, group 6: parasitized fish treated with 125 μg·mL − 1 of extract for a single bath for 12 h. After the last bath, parasitological, hematological, biochemical and hormonal analysis were performed. Annatto extract showed 100% efficacy in all concentrations and times of bath evaluated. Hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit percentage were higher in treated fish with 250 μg·mL − 1 2 h and 125 μg·mL − 1 12 h than that observed in the non-treated fish groups. Glucose was significantly higher in annatto-treated fish and cortisol was significantly higher in acetone group fish compared to other groups. Significant decrease in thrombocyte number was observed in fish after bath with acetone 0.2% compared to basal group, 125 μg·mL − 1 2 h and 125 μg·mL − 1 12 h, as well as decreased number of circulating lymphocytes in fish after bath with acetone 0.2% and 125 μg·mL − 1 12 h in relation to non-treated fish (control). On the other hand, significant increase in WBC count was found in fish treated with 125 μg·mL − 1 12 h in relation to basal and acetone groups. This is the first report on the use of seeds of B. orellana against monogenean parasites of fish. In vitro study model used with gills in Petri dishes and their in situ observation was successful and could be a useful tool for testing substances to treat fish parasites. Annatto extract bath is an efficacious alternative for treating monogeneans. However, more studies must be carried out for better understanding of the mechanism of anthelmintic activity, isolation of bioactive substances and toxicological evaluation before testing in farming conditions. Statement of relevance Chemotherapies have been mostly used to treat fish parasites. However, they present consequences to both to environment and human health. Alternatives have been studied to improve the fish health status and control fish parasites. Phytotherapy shows several advantages in controlling parasites and improving the fish health status. This study shows by the first time the use of B. orellana in controlling monogenean parasites and its effects on the hematological, biochemical and hormonal parameters.

Summary As an alternative to treating with chemicals, immunization using Ichthyophthirius multifiliis as a vaccine has been studied in fishes that were often affected with white spot diseases also to understand the possible changes to the tissue caused by the vaccine. The focus of this study was the analysis of the influence of immunization via intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) and via immersion bath (im.b.) on the histopathology of R. quelen after being challenged with live theronts of I. multifiliis distributed in: control (non-immunized and non-challenged); non-immunized and challenged with 12,000 theronts/fish; non-immunized and challenged with 22,000 theronts/fish; immunized and challenged with 12,000 theronts/fish; immunized and challenged with 22,000 theronts/fish. Water quality was measured in each assay, with 300 fingerlings distributed among 15 tanks with 20 fish in each of three replicates. Six days after challenge, samples for histopathological and parasitological analyses were collected. In both i.p. and im.b. fish the prevalence of I. multifillis in the gills was higher in the non-immunized fish (33.33% and 27.77%, respectively). Melanomacrophages were present in 53% of the samples of i.p. non-immunized fish. Fish im.b. immunized and challenged showed more atrophied areas in the hepatocytes. Higher numbers of melanomacrophages in the i.p. non-immunized fish kidneys were observed compared to control. The results showed no difference in the gill lesions of either immunized or non-immunized fish compared to control. Histological alterations in the organs of silver catfish were considered light, except in the liver that presented significant atrophy and hypertrophy of hepatocytes after immunization via i.p.

This study investigated bacterial strains with probiotic potential isolated from the middle portion of healthy hybrid surubim catfish foregut (Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum female × P. corruscans male). Twenty surubims weighing 1.5 ± 0.3 kg were used for bacterial isolation. In total, 41 strains of bacteria were selected in vitro. Ten strains had inhibition zones >10 mm against Aeromonas hydrophila. Five of those strains presented inhibition zones > 9 mm against other pathogenic bacteria and reached concentrations greater than 105 CFU mL−1 in tubes containing de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) medium. In particular, Weissella cibaria (P36) reached 106 CFU mL−1 in MRS and was able to reduce the pH of the medium to 3.85. In the in vivo intestinal colonization studies, 72 healthy hybrid surubims were fed with a commercial diet supplemented with probiotic W. cibaria for 15 days. Changes in gut community composition were then analyzed, and probiotic profile of W. cibaria was determined molecularly by amplification of rRNA 16S gene was performed using PCR. Compared to control fish, W. cibaria-supplemented fish showed an increase in RBC. These results show the efficacy of our haematological approach to probiotic screening in hybrid sorubim. Keywords: Fish nutrition, Sorubim, Lactic acid bacteria, Weissela cibaria

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a detecção, o controle e a prevenção de fotobacteriose em cultivo de bijupirá. Essa doença é causada pela bactéria Photobacterium damselae, que, juntamente com outros fatores, pode estar sendo responsável pela estagnação no crescimento da produção nacional de bijupirá (Rachycentron canadum). Essa bactéria é considerada um dos principais patógenos de peixes marinhos cultivados, tendo sido responsável por importantes prejuízos econômicos em diversos países. No Brasil, essa bactéria ainda não recebeu a devida importância, apesar de já ter sido detectada como causadora de mortalidades nos cultivos de bijupirá. Photobacterium damselae possui duas subespécies, piscicida e damselae, que podem ser consideradas ameaças sanitárias, respectivamente, em relação à atividade econômica da piscicultura marinha e em relação à saúde humana. Neste trabalho, são apresentadas algumas estratégias de detecção, controle e prevenção. Enfatiza-se, também, a necessidade de um melhor acompanhamento sanitário nos cultivos de bijupirá e a importância da vacinação contra esse patógeno. Abstract: The objective of this work was to analyse the detection, control, and prevention of photobacteriosis in cobia culture. This disease is caused by Photobacterium damselae bacterium, which, along with other factors, might be responsible for the stagnation in the development of national cobia (Rachycentron canadum) culture. This bacterium is considered one of the most important pathogens in marine fish culture, and it was responsible for major economic losses in a variety of countries. In Brazil, this bacterium has not yet getten proper attention, even though it was shown to have caused mortality in several cultured cobia fish. Photobacterium damselae has two subspecies, piscicida and damselae, which may be considered sanitary threats both to marine aquaculture economic activities and to human health, respectively. This paper presents some detection, control, and prevention strategies. It also emphasizes the need for a better sanitary control in cobia culture and the importance of vaccination against this pathogen.

This study evaluated the essential oils of clove-basil (Ocimum gratissimum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) as anesthetics for the South American catfish Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum and their effects on fish hematology and plasma glucose. For each essential oil, three concentrations were tested (100 mg L−1, 150 mg L−1 and 200 mg L−1) and a control lacking the essential oils was also present. Fish with a mean weight of 40.0 ± 9.9 g were used to provide for 6 replicates per treatment, each fish being a replicate. The times for induction and recovery, as well as the following hematological variables were assessed: Hemoglobin, hematocrit, total number of red blood cells (RBC), total number of white blood cells (WBC), total count of thrombocytes, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) in addition to plasma glucose. Significant negative relationships (p

Background Helminth parasites represent a significant threat to the health of human and animal populations, and there is a growing need for tools to treat, diagnose, and prevent these infections. Recent work has turned to the gut microbiome as a utilitarian agent in this regard; components of the microbiome may interact with parasites to influence their success in the gut, meaning that the microbiome may encode new anthelmintic drugs. Moreover, parasite infections may restructure the microbiome’s composition in consistent ways, implying that the microbiome may be useful for diagnosing infection. The innovation of these utilities requires foundational knowledge about how parasitic infection, as well as its ultimate success in the gut and impact on the host, relates to the gut microbiome. In particular, we currently possess limited insight into how the microbiome, host pathology, and parasite burden covary during infection. Identifying interactions between these parameters may uncover novel putative methods of disrupting parasite success. Results To identify interactions between parasite success and the microbiome, we quantified longitudinal associations between an intestinal helminth of zebrafish, Pseudocapillaria tomentosa, and the gut microbiome in 210 4-month-old 5D line zebrafish. Parasite burden and parasite-associated pathology varied in severity throughout the experiment in parasite-exposed fish, with intestinal pathologic changes becoming severe at late time points. Parasite exposure, burden, and intestinal lesions were correlated with gut microbial diversity. Robust generalized linear regression identified several individual taxa whose abundance predicted parasite burden, suggesting that gut microbiota may influence P. tomentosa success. Numerous associations between taxon abundance, burden, and gut pathologic changes were also observed, indicating that the magnitude of microbiome disruption during infection varies with infection severity. Finally, a random forest classifier accurately predicted a fish’s exposure to the parasite based on the abundance of gut phylotypes, which underscores the potential for using the gut microbiome to diagnose intestinal parasite infection. Conclusions These experiments demonstrate that P. tomentosa infection disrupts zebrafish gut microbiome composition and identifies potential interactions between the gut microbiota and parasite success. The microbiome may also provide a diagnostic that would enable non-destructive passive sampling for P. tomentosa and other intestinal pathogens in zebrafish facilities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40168-019-0622-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cryptocaryon irritans is an obligate parasitic ciliate protozoan of wild and cultured marine fish. It causes white spot disease, and infections with this pathogen can cause significant losses for aquarists and commercial marine cultures worldwide. This study reports the occurrence of C. irritans parasitizing the ornamental reef fish, yellowtail tang, Zebrasoma xanthurum. Six days after being introduced to a new environment, 11 yellowtail tangs had white spots scattered across their bodies and fins. Suspicion of infection with C. irritans was evaluated by scraping the skin to confirm clinical diagnosis. After confirmation, the yellowtail tangs were transferred to a hospital aquarium and treated with the therapeutic agent Seachem Cupramine® for 15 days. During the treatment period, the copper concentration was monitored daily. At the end of the treatment, none of the yellowtail tangs showed clinical signs of white spots on their bodies, and skin scraping confirmed the yellowtail tangs were no longer infected. Subsequently, the yellowtail tangs were released for sale.

Different inclusion levels of mealworm meal Tenebrio molitor (TM) were investigated in diets for tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared in biofloc systems. Five treatments were evaluated (0% or control, 5, 10, 15 and 20% of TM inclusion), with three replicates per treatment and 10 fish (2.08 ± 0.19 g) stocked per experimental unit. After six weeks, data was submitted to a regression analysis up to the second order. Zootechnical, somatic, hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as water quality, proximate composition of carcass and biofloc, abundance of the planktonic community and fatty acid profile of TM were analyzed and monitored. Throughout the experiment water quality parameters were kept within the required levels suited to this species. After six weeks, the final weight, weight gain, SGR, FCR, erythrocytes, hepatosomatic index and carcass composition (dry matter and ether extract) resulted in a linear effect when inclusion levels increased. Polynomial models and Plateau Linear Responses (LRP) were applied to survival and productivity (kg m−3) indicating maximum values of 11.68% and 10.68% of TM inclusion, respectively. Diverse groups of microorganisms were identified with a prevalence of protozoans, microalgae, diatoms and rotifers. Fatty acid (FA) profile of TM indicated high levels of saturated FA and moderate levels of linoleic and eicosapentaenoic FA. The overall results indicated that it is possible to include TM up to 10% in diets for tilapia juveniles raised in biofloc systems.

This study investigated the use of silymarin, an extract obtained from the milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and its effects as a possible hepatoprotector in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Silymarin was used as feed additive to the diet at a concentration of 0.1% (1 kg per ton of dry ration) with the commercial product named Di-Heptarine S® (16% silymarin phosphatide). A total of 90 juvenile tilapia with approximately 45 days old and mean weight of 0.72 ± 0.04 g were distributed in two groups, one fed with a diet with the hepatoprotector and the other without the additive. At the end of the assay (55 days after feeding), samples of blood were collected for hematological, immunological, histological (liver, spleen and intestine) and enzymatic analysis such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST). After 55 days all fish were challenged with Streptococcus agalactiae serotype Ib to verify the sylimarin effects on the immunological parameters and its protection effect while challenged. During the challenge period another biological material sample was collected for hematological, immunological and histopathological analysis (liver, spleen and intestine). Before the challenge, an increase on the count of thrombocyte was found in the supplemented fish. In the liver, dilation of the sinusoids was observed in unsupplemented fish while supplemented fish the alteration was less severe. No significant alteration was found in SOD, CAT and GST between the groups. Histological changes after the challenge were provoked by bacterial toxins as a result of inflammatory processes. Periacinar degeneration was less intense in unsupplemented fish when compared to supplemented fish. On the other hand, eosinophilic and lymphocytic infiltrate did occur in unsupplemented fish differently from supplemented fish which did not show the alteration. The survival was 28% higher in silymarin supplemented fish when compared to unsupplemented fish that presented no survival. Silymarin supplementation in the diet provided a hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory effect on Nile tilapia.

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with the extrats of propolis and Aloe barbadensis (aloe) on the antioxydant enzime activity, hematology and histology of the spleen of Nile tilapia challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. Seventy two juvenile Nile tilapia were divided in four treatments and three replicates and fed extract mixture for 15 days: fish fed supplemented diet with 1% of the mixture of extracts of propolis and aloe (1:1) injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS); fish fed suplemented diet with 1% of the mixture of extracts of propolis and aloe (1:1) injected with the A. hydrophila, fish fed supplemented diet with the mixture of propolis extracts and aloe, injected with PBS and injected with A. hydrophila. The influence of the supplementation of propolis and Aloe extracts on the immunomodulation in tilapias was observed by the evaluation of the survival of the animals after challenge with A. hydrophila. Non-supplemented fish had a 44.5% survival rate and those supplemented with 1% of the mixture of extracts showed 55.6% survival 7 days after challenge. The supplemented animals also showed a significant increase in the number of lymphocytes in the evaluation of the blood parameters and, consequently, in the histopathological evaluation, presented greater presence of centers of melanomacrophages. In addition, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione reductase (GR) in the spleen presented a significant difference in fish supplemented with 1% of the extracts mixture, being superior in the animals injected with PBS when compared to those challenged with A. hydrophila.

This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with two symbiotics in the hybrid surubim (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans × P. reticulatum) prior to and after challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila. The fish were divided into unsupplemented fish, supplemented fish with Weissella cibaria and inulin, and supplemented fish with Lactobacillus plantarum and inulin. Twenty days after being fed symbiotics, the fish were sampled for immunological, haematological, and microbiological analysis pre-challenge. After this period, they were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila, and after 96 h the fish were sampled for blood collection and survival. Fish fed W. cibaria and inulin from the pre-challenge showed the highest values of lysozyme activity. Fish fed L. plantarum and inulin presented a higher number of thrombocytes and granular leukocyte PAS+ than the other fish. After challenge, fish fed both symbiotics presented an increased red blood cells number. Fish fed L. plantarum and inulin showed an increased total leucocyte count (WBC), neutrophils, and monocytes number as well as total immunoglobulin. The W. cibaria- and inulin-supplemented fish showed improved haematological and immunological parameters and reduced cumulative mortality after the challenge.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T16:58:22Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2015-11-01 This study registers for the first time the copepod Acusicola sp. infesting the gills of farmed yellowtail tetra Astyanax altiparanae, as well as new information on gross pathology and gill alterations. Five specimens of yellowtail tetra showing slow swimming, respiratory difficulty, scaleness and darkened skin were examined. Fish were analysed in situ for ectoparasites diagnosis. Fragments of the gill arches were removed and processed according to usual histopathology. The gills showed focal and multifocal paleness and whitish areas besides the congestion and hemorrhage signs on the gill filaments. Several white spots attached to the gill filament apex with slight movement were identified as the ergasilid crustacean. Histopathological analysis revealed the gill and blood vessels compression. It was also observed proliferative alterations close to gill filament apex, hyperplasia, total fusion and subepithelial oedema of the secondary lamellae, proliferation of the mucus cells, and inflammatory infiltrate by eosinophilic granular cells surrounding the parasite attachment region. The best management practices and the implementation of diagnostic program are also discussed. Aquivet Saúde Aquática AQUOS-Aquatic Organisms Health Laboratory, Aquaculture Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences (UNESPÚIBILCE), São Paulo State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Clinical Pathology, Camilo Castelo Branco University (Unicastelo) Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, UNESP, Rodovia Paulo Donato Castellane Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences (UNESPÚIBILCE), São Paulo State University Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, UNESP, Rodovia Paulo Donato Castellane

This study investigated the immunization by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) (assay I) and immersion bath (assay II) with live theronts of Ichthyophthirius multifillis in Rhamdia quelen and its influence on the hemato-immunological and biochemical parameters. Fish were divided in control (non immunized no challenged); non immunized and challenged with 12,000 theronts/fish; non immunized and challenged with 22,000 theronts/fish; immunized and challenged with 12,000 theronts/fish; immunized and challenged with 22,000 theronts/fish. Six days after challenge, either in the assay I or in the assay II the prevalence of I. multifillis in the gills was higher in non immunized fish (33.33% and 27.77%, respectively). In the assay I showed higher numbers of thrombocytes, leukocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes 20 days after injection and lower numbers after challenge. The immunoglobulin values were higher in fish non immunized. Fish immunized by immersion bath (assay II) showed greater values of catalase (CAT) in the liver (1245.49 U/mgprt) when compared to i.p. (198.79 U/mgprt). The levels of CAT in the liver of fish from the assay II were greater (1738.47 U/mgprt) 14 days after immunization than that observed 21 days after (1114.26 U/mgprt). The vaccination by i.p method showed influence on the hematological parameters. On the other hand, the immersion bath vaccination showed greater influence on the catalase activity in the liver. The results showed that new parameters like total protein, immunoglobulin and antioxidant enzymes could be considered in evaluating the host response to infection.

Dietary supplementation (0, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 g kg−1) of a nucleotide source (NuPro®) was evaluated on growth, nutrient utilization, haemato-immunological responses and resistance to experimental infection of Nile tilapia. Fish (2.63 ± 0.63 g) were fed experimental diets to satiation three times a day for 75 days. Feed intake increased linearly with increasing levels of NuPro® promoting higher weight gain (P

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hematological variables and body conditions of tuviras, Gymnotus spp under growing conditions. We used 42 fish with an average weight of 42.9 ± 31.8 (g) and average length of 23.7 ± 3.3 (cm) that were from different bait houses. The procedure was anesthesia with clove oil, followed by blood collection by venipuncture flow animals, fish was collected from each 1.5 ml -1, approximately blood. It was determined the concentration of red blood cells, hematocrit percentage, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and body condition (Kn). The results show that the hematological value ranged from 0.880 to 3.940 x 106μl -1, the percentage of hematocrit value ranged from 20.0 to 51.5 %, the hemoglobin concentration from 4.4 to 14.9 g dl -1, the VCM 121.8 250,0fL -1, the MCHC 15.0 to 35.6 dl g -1 and Kn= 1,00 ± 0,041. Hematologic values of Gymnotus spp obtained are within the characteristics presented by other species created in cultive systems. The data evaluated in this work demonstrated that the tuviras kept in the bait houses presented good body conditions and healthness., O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as variáveis hematológicas e a condição corporal e higidez de tuviras, Gymnotus spp. sob condições de cultivo. Foram utilizados 42 peixes com peso médio de 42,9 ± 31,8 (g) e comprimento médio de 23,7 ± 3,3 (cm) oriundos de diferentes isqueiros. Procedeu-se anestesia com óleo de cravo, seguida de colheita de sangue dos animais por venopunção caudal, de cada peixe foi colhido 1,5 mL-1, de sangue aproximadamente. Determinou-se a concentração de eritrócitos, percentual de hematócrito, taxa de hemoglobina, o volume corpuscular médio (VCM), a concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM) e o fator de condição (Kn). Os resultados mostraram que o valor de eritrograma variou de 0,880 a 3,940 x 106µl-1, o valor percentual de hematócrito variou de 20,0 a 51,5%, a taxa de hemoglobina de 4,4 a 14,9 g dL-1, o VCM 121,8 a 250,0fL-1 , o CHCM de 15,0 a 35,6 g dL-1, e o Kn= 1,00 ± 0,041. Os valores hematológicos de Gymnotus spp, obtidos encontram-se dentro das características apresentadas por outras espécies criadas em sistemas de cultivo. Os dados avaliados neste trabalho demonstraram que as tuviras mantidas nos isqueiros apresentaram boas condições corporais e higidez.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:08:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-02-20 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária Infection by the acanthocephalan Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae is considered the most important obstacle in farmed tambaqui or cachama (Colossoma macropomum), the second most cultivated fish species in Brazil. This study describes the occurrence of N. buttnerae in farmed this fish based on parasitological and histopathological analysis in highly infected fish. A total of 102 fish were collected from fish farms located in Brazilian states in the northern region. All of the examined fish were heavily infected by N. buttnerae and showed no signs of anorexia, but heterogeneous growth and cachexia were frequently found. No cases of mortality were observed in fish farms. Macroscopically, the intestines showed hyperaemia, hardening, thickening of the intestinal wall, yellowish mucosal secretion and a bluetongue aspect. Histological sections showed different degrees of penetration of the acanthocephalan proboscis in the intestinal tissue, surpassing the mucosa, submucosa and muscular layer, provoking dilacerations due to their spines as well as an intense inflammatory reaction composed of macrophages, Langerhans cells and lymphocytes, and granuloma formation located mainly in the submucosa layer. Submucosal oedema, an increased number of goblet cells, metaplasia areas and a reduction of the intestinal villi were also observed. The results present an important register of N. buttnerae infection in C. macropomum and contribute to the comprehension of pathogeny caused by these worms. Statement of relevance Characid fish farming has led to significantly increased fish production in Brazil. However, the most important obstacle is the acanthocephalan infection caused by Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae in the intestinal tract. The infection does not provoke death but cachexia and growth reduction are frequently observed as well as intense pathological conditions in histological sections. Nilton Lins University, Av. Nilton Lins 3259 AQUIVET Aquatic Health, Rua Emília Joaquina de Jesus Castro 525 Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine São Paulo State University, Rodovia de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, CEP Laboratory of Animal Pharmacology and Toxicology Camilo Castelo Branco University, Avenida Hilário da Silva Passos, 950 Embrapa Amazônia Ocidental, Rodovia AM 010-km 29, Cx postal 319 Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis Department of Biology Institute of Biosciences Humanities and Exact Sciences (UNESP - IBILCE) São Paulo State University Embrapa Pesca e Aquicultura, Prolongamento da Avenida NS 10, cruzamento com a Avenida LO 18, sentido Norte, loteamento Água Fria AQUOS — Aquatic Organisms Health Laboratory Aquaculture Department Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Rod. Admar Gonzaga 1346, 88040-900 Florianopolis Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine São Paulo State University, Rodovia de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, S/N, CEP Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis Department of Biology Institute of Biosciences Humanities and Exact Sciences (UNESP - IBILCE) São Paulo State University CNPq: 305869/2014-0 CNPq: 506263/2013-4 Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária: MP2 02.13.09.003.00.00

Although there is evidence on the benefits in the use of immunostimulants in aquaculture, there are few commercial products being used. This study evaluated the use of natural substances as potential sources for the production of immunostimulants. Propolis and Aloe barbadensis have been widely studied and its extracts have different chemical constituents responsible for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant. Tilapia juveniles were fed for two weeks with diets supplemented mix of propolis extracts and aloe (1:1) in different concentrations: 0.5, 1 e 2%. After the experimental period, fish blood was collected for hematoimmunological as follows : hematocrit, total plasma protein, erythrocytes (RBC), leukocytes (WBC), differential leukocyte count, phagocytic activity, serum lysozyme activity, and serum antimicrobial activity, serum antimicrobial activity (evaluated against Aeromonas hydrophila, Enterococcus durans and Escherichia coli). Except for higher number of thrombocytes in 1%-supplemented fish, the rest did not show significant difference.

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of dietary supplementation with propolis on hematology and number and area of melanomacrophage centers in spleen and kidney of tilapia. After acclimation, fish (24.7 ± 7.4 gmean weight) were distributed in 6 tanks 100 L, 6 fish per tank, in triplicate, at a temperature 24.0 ± 2.8 o C, with two treatments: Fish fed 2% propolis supplemented diet and fish fed non-supplemented diet. To monitor the evolution of the effects, two samples were collected: half of the fish from each treatment were used after 15 days and the other half after 21, composing two feeding times. After each feeding time, blood, spleen and kidney were collected. After twenty one days feeding on 2% propolis supplemented diet, fish showed a lower number of total leukocytes and lymphocytes and an increase in the total erythrocytes number. Fish fed supplemented diet presented an increased number of melanomacrophage centers. We observed hemosiderin in all spleen samples. Kidney showed no significant difference on the presence of melanomacrophage centers containing hemosiderin. Despite these changes, the fish health status was not affected. The results showed that propolis supplementation in the diet ofNile tilapia may be physiologically feasible.

Tissues fixed and embedded in paraffin for histopathological studies keep their cell characteristics. There are several protocols for extracting genetic material from tissue embedded in paraffin, but there is no protocol for material aimed at the direct identification of parasites. The lack of techniques which describe the recovery of parasites from tissue embedded in paraffin has led us to test a technique for recovering myxosporean parasites found in Piaractus mesopotamicus kidney fragments embedded in paraffin, for a rapid, direct, and economic identification. Once the excess paraffin was removed from the kidney fragment, this was deparaffinized in xylene, hydrated in 70% alcohol, placed in an Eppendorf tube containing 70% alcohol, and left under vigorous and constant agitation in a vortex until the tissue was disintegrated. The precipitated material was mixed with the 70% alcohol and 20 µL were collected for preparing the smears, which were stained with Giemsa. Myxobolus sp. spores at many developmental stages were observed by light microscopy. The technique has proved to be useful for recovering myxosporean parasites from tissue embedded in paraffin and it constitutes an effective tool for prevalence studies when the myxosporean parasites are not detected in fresh mounts.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune response of hybrid surubim vaccinated by intraperitoneal injection and by immersion against Aeromonas hydrophila. Vaccine was prepared with formalin-inactivated A. hydrophila. Forty eight fishes (47±9g) were distributed in 12 tanks (4 fish / tank) in the following treatments (4 tanks / treatment): unvaccinated fish, vaccinated intraperitoneally and vaccinated by immersion. After 21 days, intraperitoneally vaccinated fishes showed the highest values of total protein and immunoglobulins, agglutination titer and serum antimicrobial activity. Lysozyme concentration in the serum was higher in the fishes vaccinated by immersion than unvaccinated fishes. Intraperitoneal vaccination induced the highest immune response and could be used to improve the fish resistance against motile Aeromonas.

Objective. This study evaluated the cell kinetic and formation of granuloma during chronic inflammation induced by Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) in the skeletal muscle of Piaractus mesopotamicus, as a histopathology model to study innate immunity. Materials and methods. Sixty fish were divided in two groups: BCG-inoculated and non-inoculated fish and the inflammatory response analyzed 3, 7, 14, 21 and 33 days post-inoculation (DPI) by histopathology after hematoxylin-eosin and Ziehl-Neelsen staining. Results. 3 DPI of BCG showed a diffuse inflammatory reaction mostly composed by mononuclear cells. The inflammation continued diffuse 7 DPI initiating the cellular organization surrounding the inoculum and have continued at 14 DPI with discrete presence of epithelioid-like type cells with acidophilic cytoplasm and floppy chromatin. Higher cellular organization (21 DPI) surrounding the granuloma with intense peripheral mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate and nevertheless, an increase in the number of fibroblasts and macrophage-like cells was observed. The inflammatory process became less diffuse 33 DPI with formation of small amount of granuloma surrounded by the same type of reaction found in bigger granuloma. Both the young and old granuloma presented typical characteristic around the inoculum composed by a layer of epithelioid-like type cells, besides macrophages, some lymphocytes and abundant fibroblasts. Conclusions. This study showed the feasibility in the use of pacus to study chronic granulomatous inflammatory response induced by BCG, characterized by changes in the kinetics of inflammatory cells in skeletal muscle classifying as immune-epithelioid type, similar to granulomatous inflammation caused by M. marinum in teleost fish., Objetivo. Este estudio evaluó la cinética celular y la formación de granuloma durante la inflamación crónica inducida por el Bacilo Calmette-Guérin (BCG) en el músculo esquelético de Piaractus mesopotamicus, como modelo histopatológico para estudiar la inmunidad innata. Materiales y métodos. Sesenta peces fueron divididos en dos grupos: peces inoculados con BCG y no inoculados y la respuesta inflamatoria analizada en 3, 7, 14, 21 y 33 días post-inóculo (DPI) por medio del análisis histopatológico y tinciones de hematoxilina-eosina y Ziehl-Neelsen. Resultados. 3 DPI de BCG se observó reacción inflamatoria difusa principalmente formada por infiltrado celular mononuclear. Al 7° DPI la inflamación continuaba difusa con inicio de organización celular alrededor del inoculo, que se observó hasta el 14° DPI con discreta presencia de células de tipo epiteliodes con citoplasma acidófilo y cromatina laxa. Para el 21° DPI se observó alta organización celular alrededor del granuloma con intenso infiltrado mononuclear periférico e incremento en el número de fibroblastos y macrófagos. El proceso inflamatorio se tornó menos difuso a los 33 DPI con formación de pequeños granulomas contenidos dentro de uno más grande. Los granulomas formados más rápidamente así como los formados tardíamente, presentaron características típicas alrededor del inóculo compuesta por una camada de células tipo epitelioides, macrófagos, linfocitos y fibroblastos. Conclusiones. Este estudio mostró la viabilidad del uso del P. mesopotamicus para estudiar la respuesta inflamatoria crónica granulomatosa inducida con BCG, caracterizado por la evolución de la cinética de células inflamatorias en el músculo esquelético clasificándolo como de tipo inmune-epitelioide, similar a la inflamación granulomatosa causada por M. marinum en peces teleósteos.