Population Dynamics of Cestode Parasites, Lernaea (Anchor worm) and its Impact on Haemato-biochemical indices of Channa punctata (Bloch)

Abstract

Lernaea is a common ectoparasitic copepod and causes lerneosis in several freshwater fishes. It causes high mortality in freshwater fishes. The prevalence of Lernaea infection were decreased with increasing size of host fish, Channa punctata whereas the mean intensity and density or abundance were increased with increasing the size of host fish. The maximum prevalence of Lernaea parasite in Channa punctata was recorded during summer and the minimum during winter but the mean intensity and density or abundance was maximum in winter and minimum in autumn seasons. RBC count, haemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume, serum protein and lipid level were found decreased in the fishes infested with Lernaea as compared to those which were devoid of infestation. Similarly, TLC, and Serum Glucose were found increased in parasitized fishes than non-parasitized ones. The results indicated that fishes suffer anaemia, loss of appetite and reduced growth when affected with Lernaea.