Helminths of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) from ponds with different water sources

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study compared water quality and helminth infections in channel catfish across two farms with differing water sources (well vs. river). Key water parameters-dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, hardness, and ammonia-differed significantly between the Casas (one pond; well water) and Abasolo (two ponds, river water) ponds. Five helminth species were identified, with distinct patterns of prevalence: Ligictaluridus sp. was exclusive to the Abasolo ponds, while Corallobothrium sp. and Contracaecum sp. were found only in Casas. Diplostomum sp. was the most prevalent parasite, with higher mean abundance in Abasolo pond 2 (P < 0.01). Parasite community structure significantly differed between farms, influenced by water quality factors such as dissolved oxygen and ammonia levels, which correlated with specific parasite types. Lower water quality in Abasolo coincided with reduced parasite species diversity, supporting prior findings linking poor water conditions to limited parasite communities. Findings indicated that water sources impacted helminth presence and community structure in aquaculture ponds.