First detection of channel catfish virus associated with mortality of cultured catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus, Rafinesque) in Mexico.

The article discusses the detection of channel catfish virus (CCV) associated with mortality of cultured channel catfish in Mexico. The good quality of channel catfish' flesh and flavor has resulted the increase catfish consumption and growing fish farming industry. However, the detection of Herpesvirus ictaluri CCV was first isolated in the U.S. in 1960 that led the high mortality rates with significant economic losses of catfish industry. The histophathological examination has revealed multifocal necrotic areas and hemorrhage in the internal organs with viral infection.The CCV's infection is the most severe of the fish herpesvirus which proliferation was caused by stressful environmental conditions such as high temperature, low water quality, low oxygen level and poor feeding.