Sariya Azka, Shabista Ismail Shaikh and Kalim M Shaikh

Helminth parasites significantly affect the health, growth, and productivity of freshwater fishes, posing ecological and economic challenges. The present study investigates the seasonal variation and prevalence of helminth infections in the freshwater catfish Wallago attu collected from various regions of Pune, Maharashtra, in 2024. A total of 126 fish were examined, of which 58 (46%) were infected with helminth parasites. In total, 238 helminths were recovered, including 73 cestodes (30.67%), 142 nematodes (59.91%), and 23 trematodes (9.66%). The prevalence of infection was highest during the monsoon season (69.69%) and lowest during summer (15.78%). Nematodes were the most dominant, while trematodes were restricted to the monsoon season. Recovered genera included Gangesia and Senga (Cestoda), Isoparorchis (Trematoda), and Eustrongylides (Nematoda). The study highlights clear seasonal dynamics and provides baseline data on the helminth fauna of W. attu, offering valuable information for developing parasitic control strategies, improving fish health management, and ensuring sustainable freshwater fishery practices.

DOI: 10.22271/23940522.2025.v12.i6b.1159

Pages: 111-115  |  156 Views  63 Downloads