Survey the parasites of the common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) fish from Daquq farms in Kirkuk province in Iraq

Abstract

The majority of fish farms now primarily cultivate carp, which is also widespread in Iraq's inland waterways. Realizing that parasites can impair carp populations or play a significant part in their demise or growth restriction, causing financial losses for aquacultures. A total of 70 common carp Cyprinus carpio were collected in Daquq fish farm, situated southeast Kirkuk city, from March to the end of July 2022. The percentage of infection was found when these fish were checked for parasites 60% (42/70). Nine parasite species are discovered in the investigation, including: six species of protozoans belonging to the class Ciliata (Chilodonella cyprini (40%), Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (30%), Trichodina pediculus (14%), Balantidium polyvacuolum (11%), Trichodina acuta (9%) and Trichodina nobilis (8.5%). Three species of Monogenea trematode (Dactylogyrus extensus (6%), Dactylogyrus minutus (7%), and Gyrodactylus kheralensis (3%). Injuries to the tissues and internal organs, gill infarction, damage to the eyes, and parasite infestation are among the ways that parasites can harm their hosts. This is the first survey study on parasitic fauna of some carp fishes in Daquq farms in Kirkuk province in Iraq.