Surveillance of Protozoan Infestation in Gill and Skin of Channa punctatus Collected from Local Market of Kolkata

Aims: The present study is aimed at examining the protozoan parasitic population on the gill and skin of fresh water murrel with detailed histopathological study along with measurement of index of infection of parasite infected fish.

Study Design: Fish samples were collected from local market of Kolkata and examined for parasitological and histopathological study in controlled laboratory condition.

Place and Duration of Study: Post Graduate Department of Zoology for a time period of six months.

Methodology: Channa punctatus (size 16-20 cm, weighing 15-17 gm) were collected from local market of Kolkata. Skin and gill filaments were analysed in controlled laboratory condition for examining the presence of protozoan parasites along with the routine histopathological study. Photo-documentation was carried out under microscope fitted with a digital camera.

Results: The freshwater fish were found to be infected with protozoan species with marked lesions in skin and gill.

Conclusion: In this experimental analysis, protozoan species were identified in the skin and gill of Channa punctatus with the highest index of infection during the time span of September and October. The study is indicative of the harmful influence of parasite on fish health.