ARCHIVES
VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Studies on Seasonal variation of Cestode Parasite Infection in the Freshwater Fish Mastacembelus armatus from Nanded District (MS), India
Authors
Pooja Mahajan Kadam, Dhanraj Balbhim Bhure
Abstract
The present study investigates the seasonal variation of cestode
parasite infection in the freshwater fish Mastacembelus armatus over a
one-year period from October 2022 to September 2023 in Nanded District,
Maharashtra, India. A total of fish specimens were examined monthly for
intestinal cestode infection. The results revealed that parasitic infection
persisted throughout the year, indicating continuous host-parasite interaction
in the ecosystem. Seasonal analysis showed moderate infection levels during early
winter, followed by a marked increase from March to May, during which the
highest prevalence (up to 76.92%) and parasite abundance were recorded. The
infection intensity declined during the monsoon months, reaching the lowest
prevalence in September (16.67%). Maximum parasite abundance and infection
index were recorded in March, indicating a peak transmission period, while
January exhibited the lowest infection levels. Interestingly, although
prevalence was low in September, infection intensity was relatively high,
suggesting heavier parasite loads in fewer infected hosts. These seasonal
fluctuations appear to be strongly influenced by environmental factors such as
temperature, rainfall, and host feeding behavior. The study highlights the
ecological significance of seasonal variation in parasite dynamics and
emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring of fish health in freshwater
ecosystems.
Download
Pages:60-63
How to cite this article:
Pooja Mahajan Kadam, Dhanraj Balbhim Bhure "Studies on Seasonal variation of Cestode Parasite Infection in the Freshwater Fish <i>Mastacembelus armatus</i> from Nanded District (MS), India". International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Research, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 60-63
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.