Tilapia Diseases Reported in Mexico: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Aquaculture
• Veterinary Medicine
• Fish Pathology

Background:

• Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a vital global food source and significant to Mexico's aquaculture.
• Disease outbreaks pose a substantial threat to the sustainability of tilapia farming in Mexico.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the spectrum of diseases impacting tilapia aquaculture in Mexico.
• To provide insights into clinical signs, etiological agents, treatments, and distribution of key tilapia diseases.
• To examine the application of the FAO's three-level diagnostic system for infectious diseases in Mexican tilapia aquaculture.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research and epidemiological data on tilapia diseases in Mexico.
• Analysis of bacterial, parasitic, viral, and fungal infections affecting Nile tilapia.
• Examination of the FAO's three-level diagnostic system (prevention, laboratory diagnostics, molecular techniques).

Main Results:

• Identified four major parasitic infections: Cichlidogyrus Infection, Gyrodactyliasis, Neobenedeniosis, and Trichodiniasis.
• Discussed six prominent bacterial infections: motile Aeromonas septicaemia (MAS), Streptococcosis, Staphylococcosis, Francisellosis, Edwardsiellosis, and Mycobacteriosis.
• Highlighted Saprolegniasis (fungal) and Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) as significant threats, impacting hatcheries and overall fish health.

Conclusions:

• Effective disease management in Mexican tilapia aquaculture requires a comprehensive approach.
• Adoption of the FAO's three-level diagnostic system, encompassing prevention, diagnostics, and advanced detection, is essential.
• Implementing these strategies will mitigate disease outbreaks and promote sustainable tilapia farming in Mexico.