Ichthyobodo infections in farmed fish; diagnostics and prophylaxis

Ichthyobodosis is regarded as one of the most economically important parasitic diseases in Norwegian salmon farms. In addition to cause disease and mortality among salmonids reared in both fresh- and seawater, Ichthyobodo infections have also caused probl em to Norwegian farmed marine species like cod, halibut and wolfish in hatcheries and net pens, often associated with gill inflammation. There has been a prevailing concept that the genus Ichthyobodo comprises one cosmopolitan species, Ichthyobodo necator , but recent molecular studies have revealed that there are several species within the genus Ichthyobodo in both fresh-, brackish and seawater. The main aim of this project is to provide increased knowledge of parasites belonging to the genus Ichthyobodo . Morphologically and molecular phylogenetic comparisons of Ichthyobodo species will reveal taxonomic position and unique morphological characters, providing increased knowledge of the genus Ichthyobodo. Further more, knowledge regarding Ichthyobodo life cycle and routes of infection are essential for effective prophylactic procedures against infection. There is an increasing production of salmonids and marine fish in Norway, and efficient prophylactic procedures and precise diagnostics are highly importa nt and necessary to control disease outbreaks, hence reduce the infection pressure to wild fish in the future.