The reference provided specifically discusses whirling disease as a disease impacting fish, and this is a BC fish disease.
Whirling Disease Explained
Whirling disease is caused by the microscopic parasite Myxobolus cerebralis. This parasite has a complex lifecycle involving two hosts: juvenile fish and bottom-dwelling aquatic worms.
The Lifecycle of Whirling Disease
- The parasite infects bottom-dwelling aquatic worms.
- These worms release infective spores.
- These spores infect juvenile fish, targeting their head and spinal cartilage, as well as nervous tissue.
- The infection causes deformities and erratic swimming patterns, hence the name "whirling disease".
Impacts on Fish
- Deformities: The parasite damages cartilage and skeletal tissues, leading to visible deformities.
- Nervous System Damage: Invasion of the nervous tissue can result in erratic swimming behaviour, which includes whirling.
- Mortality: Severe infections can lead to fish death, particularly in juvenile stages.
Prevention and Management
Although difficult to eradicate completely, measures to mitigate the spread include:
- Avoiding Fish Transfer: Prevent transfer of infected fish between bodies of water.
- Cleaning Gear: Thoroughly clean all equipment, including boats and fishing gear, before moving between water bodies.
- Habitat Management: Implementing best management practices for stream and watershed health to reduce favorable conditions for the parasite.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cause | Myxobolus cerebralis parasite |
| Hosts | Juvenile fish and bottom-dwelling aquatic worms |
| Infection Sites | Head and spinal cartilage, nervous tissue |
| Symptoms | Deformities, erratic swimming, whirling behavior |
| Impacts | Mortality, particularly in juvenile stages |
| Prevention | Avoid transferring fish, clean gear, habitat management |
