Cryptosporidium in fish: Implications for aquaculture and beyond

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Aquatic Animal Health
• Food Safety

Background:

• Aquaculture is expanding globally, increasing the importance of controlling Cryptosporidium.
• Cryptosporidiosis is a significant waterborne and foodborne disease with global outbreaks.
• Cryptosporidium species are increasingly detected in diverse fish populations worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review scientific data on Cryptosporidium species in piscine hosts.
• To emphasize transmission routes and the impact of fish cryptosporidiosis in aquaculture.
• To provide knowledge for preventing and controlling fishborne cryptosporidiosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing scientific data.
• Analysis of Cryptosporidium occurrence in various fish species and environments.
• Evaluation of zoonotic potential and pathological impacts.

Main Results:

• Cryptosporidium species are prevalent in marine, freshwater, cultured, and ornamental fish globally.
• Zoonotic subtypes of Cryptosporidium in fish are linked to contaminated water sources.
• The pathological impact on piscine hosts and fishborne zoonotic risk are increasingly recognized.

Conclusions:

• Fishborne cryptosporidiosis is a major public health concern in aquaculture.
• Understanding transmission routes is key to mitigating risks.
• This review facilitates prevention and control strategies for consumers, authorities, and the aquaculture industry.