A decision support tool for parasite management in fish aquaculture

A decision support tool was developed to aid management of problematic parasites in marine fish aquaculture. The provides biologically relevant treatment intervals interrupt the life cycle ectoparasitic flatworms that occur global kingfish and amberjack (Seriola spp.) Temperature-dependent parameters for ‘skin flukes’, Benedenia seriolae Neobenedenia girellae, ‘gill fluke’, Zeuxapta seriolae, were derived from published data modelled using non-linear regressions. Increasing temperatures shortened duration most all parasites. Salinity had no effect on timing but limited hatching success hypo- hypersaline conditions. tool, named BeNeZe after first two letters each parasite genera, enables rapid determination consecutive medicinal immersion or ‘bathing’ treatments—the kill adult attached second prevent maturity new recruits. As temperature increases, interval between treatments ‘window’ within which should be applied is reduced. can used multi-species infections. inclusion taxonomy, biology behaviour as part an integrated strategy reviewed. Available through open access app, intended conjunction with farm biosecurity, surveillance, measures recognition independent units. reduce infection burdens, improve welfare production number frequency.