Eimeria southwelli infection associated with high mortality of cownose rays

Abstract:

The coccidian Eimeria southwelli is associated with chronic fatal disease in captive cownose rays Rhinoptera bonasus. Clinical signs include discoloration of the epidermis, emaciation, coelomic cavity distention, and death. The oocysts can be demonstrated in coelomic fluid obtained by coelomic aspiration. Prevalence of E. southwelli in wild cownose rays was 92% in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, USA. Recommended management practices include strict quarantine and screening by using coelomic cavity aspirate sampling. A dosage of 10 mg toltrazuril/kg orally once a day for 5 d reduces but may not eliminate parasitic loads. © by the American Fisheries Society 1998.

Año de publicación:

1998

Keywords:

Fuente:

scopus