Innovative solutions for aquaculture: Assessment of in situ monitoring techniques and life history parameters for monogenean skin and gill parasites

Abstract

First paragraph: External parasitic flukes that infect the skin and gills of yellowtail kingfish are among the most serious health issues for the culture of this species. Fingerlings grown in land-based hatcheries are free of parasites when transferred to sea-cages for grow out. The skin and gill parasites occur naturally and infect wild yellowtail kingfish stocks. Fluke populations proliferate on captive, seacaged stocks due to the direct lifecycle of the two parasite species. Fluke infections require regular monitoring by farm staff throughout the production cycle of yellowtail kingfish. Infections contribute to reduced growth, morbidity and if fluke populations reach sufficient intensity, the parasites can cause kingfish mortality on farms.