Centrocestus formosanus (Heterophydae) infection in ornamental fish Cyprinus carpio var. koi (Cyprinidae): in Mexico center

Abstract

Parasite problems in ornamental fish represent a health risk that results in economic losses in the sector, including infections by Centrocestus formosanus, which have been identified as diseases that affect fish health and also have zoonotic potential. Due to the sanitary importance of this trematode, this study aimed to report the presence of C. formosanus in ornamental fish in Tulancingo de Bravo, Hidalgo. 36 aquarium koi carp (Cyprinus carpio Koi) were acquired for parasitological analysis in search of ecto- and endoparasites. A water sample was also collected to determine water quality parameters using a Hanna® colorimetric kit (Hannapro, SA de CV © 2022, CDMX, Mexico). The fish analyzed showed metacercariae cysts in the gill filaments, corresponding to C. formosanus with a prevalence of 5.5 %, while the water quality showed pH (10.84± 0.05), nitrite (28± 0.00), nitrate (17.72± 0.00) and CO₂ (23± 2.64) values indicating poor water quality. These findings suggest that poor water quality may be associated with the presence of C. formosanus. This study presents the first report of C. formosanus in ornamental fish in the municipality of Tulancingo de Bravo, serving as a tool for future monitoring and management of parasite loads.