Infection by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterResearchpeer-review

Ichthyophthiriasis or white spot disease is caused by the protozoan ciliate Ichthyophthirius multifiliis. The disease is a major problem to both cultured and wild freshwater fish in all areas of the world. Most species of freshwater fish are considered susceptible. The clinical signs of I. multifiliis infection are characterized by white spots up to 1 mm that are often seen on the skin and fins of infected fish. The parasite has a direct life cycle and can multiply into hundreds of infective theronts with the developmental speed depending on ambient temperature. Within one to two weeks, the parasite can kill whole fish herds. Early detection and treatment strategies are crucial to control the spread of this disease.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAquaculture Pathophysiology : Finfish Diseases: Volume I
Volume1
PublisherElsevier
Publication date2022
Pages493-503
Chapter40
ISBN (Print)9780128123379
ISBN (Electronic)9780128122112
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

    Research areas

  • Ciliate, Ich, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, Theront, Trophont, White spot disease

ID: 318875682