Praziquantel use in aquaculture - Current status and emerging issues

Area of Science:

• Aquaculture
• Veterinary Parasitology
• Fish Health Management

Background:

• Parasitic diseases significantly impact global fish mariculture production.
• Flatworm infections pose a major threat to farmed fish health and economic viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications of praziquantel (PZQ) in aquaculture.
• To evaluate PZQ's efficacy against diverse fish flatworm parasites.
• To discuss PZQ's broader potential in the aquaculture industry.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of praziquantel (PZQ) usage in fish mariculture.
• Analysis of PZQ efficacy data against various fish flatworm species.
• Evaluation of administration routes, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and environmental impact.

Main Results:

• Praziquantel (PZQ) demonstrates high efficacy against a wide spectrum of fish flatworm parasites.
• Various administration routes are effective, but palatability and pharmacokinetics require consideration.
• Potential for broader application of PZQ in aquaculture is evident.

Conclusions:

• Praziquantel (PZQ) is a valuable anthelmintic for controlling flatworm parasites in aquaculture.
• Further research into optimal PZQ use, environmental safety, and resistance is warranted.
• Expanding PZQ application can enhance fish health and mariculture sustainability.