Study reveals risks from carp parasite

Date: 31 October 2011

Bournemouth University (BU) & Environment Agency (EA) study identifies consequences of infection by alien parasite for fish and fisheries.

A joint BU-EA study published in the Public Library of Science journal ‘PLoS One’ has revealed how infections of the tapeworm ‘Bothriocephalus acheilognathi’ affect juvenile carp ‘Cyprinus carpio’ in fisheries in England and Wales.

Dr Chris Williams from the Environment Agency said: “This work provides important evidence about how alien parasites can cause harm to our fish populations. It gives us a better understanding of the risks these parasites pose to fish, the environment and our fisheries.”

The study showed the parasite comprised up to 12 % of an infected carp’s body weight. The tapeworm was always found in the intestine, causing considerable damage. Infected fish were found to be lower in weight, growing more slowly and feeding on less nutritive foods than non-infected carp.

Dr Robert Britton, who led the study from Bournemouth University’s ecology department, said: “It was highly apparent that infected carp suffered multiple pathological and ecological consequences, suggesting fisheries infected with ‘Bothriocephalus’ will be damaged.”

The fact that carp fisheries and the recreational value of carp fishing are worth millions of pounds to the UK economy means it is vital to prevent infection. Fortunately, the Asian tapeworm is currently subject to strict regulation in England and Wales by the Environment Agency.

Dr Williams continued: “We will use this knowledge to advise our regulation of fish movements and the advice we provide to fishery managers to minimise the spread and impact of these parasites.”