Alteration in gills, skin, and fins of snakehead fish (Channa striata) due to ectoparasite infection: a macropathological and histopathological approach

Abstract

Snakehead fish (Channa striata) is a freshwater fish with high economic value both as ornamental and consumed fish. However, the ability to adapt to fluctuating environmental states prompts snakehead fish to be susceptible to parasites, ectoparasites, and endoparasites. Gills, skin, and fins are the major body parts that are often infected with ectoparasites. This study aims to discover the macro pathology in gills, skin, and fins of ectoparasites-infected snakehead fish and its histopathology. This study was conducted from April to June 2021. Observational data on macro pathology and histopathology were analyzed qualitatively. The results indicated that the macro pathology of the skin, gills, and fins of snakehead fish infected with ectoparasites indicates discoloration, excess mucus production, the dull coloration of the gills, and irritation of the gills body surfaces, and skin hemorrhages. In conclusion, infection of ectoparasites affects several alterations in the skin, gills, and fins, both macro pathological and histopathological.