Quaglio - Fungal Diseases Flashcards
What are the common fungal diseases affecting fish?
Saprolegniasis (Saprolegnia spp.), Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) caused by Aphanomyces invadans
What is Saprolegniasis, and what causes it?
A fungal disease caused by Saprolegnia spp., a water mold. Common in freshwater fish. Often a secondary infection following physical trauma or poor water quality.
What are the clinical signs of Saprolegniasis?
White, cotton-like growths on skin, gills, or fins; lesions that may lead to secondary bacterial infections; lethargy and loss of appetite in infected fish.
How does poor water quality contribute to Saprolegniasis?
Stress from high ammonia, low oxygen, or poor hygiene compromises immunity, increasing susceptibility to fungal infections.
What are the predisposing factors for Saprolegniasis?
- Physical injuries (e.g., handling, netting)
- Immune suppression due to stress or poor nutrition
- Cold water temperatures favor fungal growth
How is Saprolegniasis treated in aquaculture?
- Salt baths or potassium permanganate treatments
- Improving water quality and minimizing handling stress
- Application of antifungal agents like formalin or malachite green
What is Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS), and its causative agent?
A severe fungal disease caused by Aphanomyces invadans. Affects freshwater and estuarine fish. Associated with ulcerative lesions and high mortality.
What are the symptoms of EUS?
- Deep, red ulcerative lesions on the body and fins
- Necrosis of underlying muscle tissue
- Secondary bacterial infections leading to systemic septicemia
What environmental factors favor EUS outbreaks?
- Poor water quality with high organic matter
- Stagnant or polluted water bodies
- Seasonal changes, especially during monsoon periods
How is EUS transmitted?
Spores of Aphanomyces invadans released into water. Infection occurs through open wounds or abrasions.
How is EUS diagnosed?
- Clinical signs of deep ulcers and necrotic tissue
- Microscopic identification of fungal hyphae in lesions
- Histopathology showing mycotic granulomas
What are mycotic granulomas, and their significance in fungal infections?
Granulomas are inflammatory responses to fungal invasion. Seen in chronic cases, indicating immune system response.
What treatments are effective for EUS?
- Broad-spectrum antifungal treatments (e.g., formalin baths)
- Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
- Improving water quality and reducing organic load
What are the prevention strategies for fungal diseases in fish?
- Regular monitoring and maintaining good water quality
- Avoiding overcrowding and minimizing fish injuries
- Prompt removal of dead or infected fish to reduce fungal spread
What are the histological findings in fungal infections?
- Hyphae invading tissues, surrounded by inflammatory cells
- Necrotic lesions and granulomas in chronic cases