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Intestinal strangulation in farmed Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua): Pathological changes and possible predisposing
Fredrik Strebel Skedsmo1, Guro Løkka2, Elvis Chikwati2
1Pathology Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), As, Norway.
Journal of Fish Diseases
|April 8, 2024
Summary
Atlantic cod farming in Norway is hindered by a fatal strangulating obstruction disorder. This condition, where the intestine becomes trapped, causes severe health issues and economic losses in farmed cod.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Animal Pathology
- Comparative Anatomy
Background:
- Renewed interest in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) farming in Norway.
- A recurring fatal abdominal disorder impacts farmed cod welfare and economics.
- Previous attempts at cod farming were also affected by similar intestinal issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide the first in-depth description of the 'strangulating obstruction' disorder in Atlantic cod.
- To compare the macroscopical and histological anatomy of farmed and wild Atlantic cod.
- To discuss risk factors associated with anatomical differences in farmed cod.
Main Methods:
- Detailed description of the 'strangulating obstruction' pathology.
- Macroscopical and histological anatomical comparison between farmed and wild Atlantic cod.
- Identification and discussion of potential risk factors.
Main Results:
- The disorder involves permanent intestinal entrapment (incarceration) by fibrous mesenteric strands.
- Entrapment leads to impaired blood flow, intestinal blockage, venous congestion, and ischemia.
- Anatomical differences between farmed and wild cod were identified and linked to risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Strangulating obstruction is a significant pathological condition in farmed Atlantic cod.
- Understanding the anatomical basis and risk factors is crucial for mitigating this disorder.
- Further research is needed to address this challenge in Norwegian cod aquaculture.
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