Fish Farming Medicine Guide

All about Fish Farming Medicines

Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, is an increasingly popular method of producing fish for human consumption. However, just like any other type of farming, fish farming also requires the use of various medicines to ensure the health and well-being of the fish. These medicines, also known as aquaculture drugs, play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the fish and ensuring that the fish are free from diseases. They also help to improve the productivity of the fish and to add value to the final product. In this blog post, we will be discussing the various fish farming medicines that are commonly used in India’s aquaculture industry and the importance of their usage in maintaining the health of the fish.

Quick Fish farming principles

  1. Know your fish
  2. Know the characteristics of pond
  3. Know fish diseases
  4. Know the treatments and medicines for fish

Fisheries have actually been an olden practice in India as well as have actually ended up being an important economic activity. Aquaculture had its beginning in the eastern States of India, generally in states like West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, as well as Odisha. The social practices were limited to the homestead fish ponds with traditional techniques and also for their family demand. The traditional system of Yester years fisheries progressively became contemporary approaches of aquaculture in India. The sector’s vibrancy can be assessed by a nearly 11-fold rise in fish manufacturing in just six years, i.e., from 0.75 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 9.6 million tonnes from 2012-2013. Tank farming is currently important to the economic climates of numerous states, giving livelihood safety and security to the country badly, mainly in seaside communities. This has eliminated stress on capture fisheries, and also the harvest of wild supply from rivers, lakes, oceans, and other open-water resources. Fish has a nutritional account superior to all earthbound meat, being an outstanding resource of top notch animal protein and also very digestible energy, in addition to a vibrant resource of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Currently, fish represents the main and inexpensive source of pet protein, adding greater than 25% of the overall animal protein supply for concerning one billion people worldwide.

Aquaculture is a rapidly growing sector in food production, and the use of drugs is crucial for maintaining the health of aquatic animals, as well as for pond building and soil management. Proper water management improves aquaculture productivity, feed formulation, reproduction, growth promotion, processing, and the value-adding of the final product. However, the use of chemicals in aquaculture can also pose risks to the environment and human health if not used properly. This study examines the current use of aquaculture drugs by farmers, and found that most farmers are small or marginal and have limited knowledge about the chemicals they use. They often rely on advice from local fish consultants and feed/chemical suppliers. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics and chemicals can lead to the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes, as well as the presence of antibiotic residues, which can have negative effects on fish, humans, and the environment. Therefore, there is a need for collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and researchers to address the issue of drug use in aquaculture. Both government and non-government agencies should work together to implement better management practices and adhere to aquaculture policy guidelines.

 

Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, is a rapidly growing industry in India. As the demand for fish and other seafood products continues to rise, the need for efficient and sustainable fish farming practices becomes increasingly important. One of the key components of successful fish farming is the use of appropriate medicines to maintain the health of the fish and prevent the spread of disease.

Fish farming medicines, also known as aquaculture drugs, play a crucial role in the health and productivity of fish farms. These drugs are used to prevent, control and treat a wide range of diseases that can affect fish and other aquatic animals. Some of the most common fish farming medicines include antibiotics, anti-parasitics, and anti-fungals.

Antibiotics are commonly used in fish farming to control bacterial infections. They work by killing or inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, which can cause serious diseases in fish. Some of the most commonly used antibiotics in fish farming include Oxytetracycline, Chlortetracycline, and Furazolidone.

Anti-parasitics, as the name suggests, are used to control and prevent parasitic infections in fish. These drugs work by killing or inhibiting the growth of parasites such as worms and protozoa, which can cause serious health problems for fish. Some of the most commonly used anti-parasitics in fish farming include Levamisole, Emamectin benzoate and Diflubenzuron.

Anti-fungals are used to prevent and control fungal infections in fish. These drugs work by killing or inhibiting the growth of fungi, which can cause serious health problems for fish. Some of the most commonly used anti-fungals in fish farming include Chloramphenicol and Fluconazole.

It is important to note that while these medicines can be very useful in managing disease in aquaculture, if used incorrectly, they can also pose a threat to the environment and human health. Therefore, farmers should always use fish farming medicines according to the recommended dosages and under the guidance of a veterinarian or other qualified professional.

 

Most commonly used medicines in fish farming

There are a variety of medicines and products that are commonly used in fish farming to maintain the health and well-being of the fish. Some of the most commonly used products include:

  1. Antibiotics: These are used to treat bacterial infections in fish, such as columnaris and furunculosis. Common antibiotics used in fish farming include oxytetracycline, erythromycin, and streptomycin.
  2. Anti-parasitics: These are used to treat and prevent parasitic infections, such as gill and skin flukes and anchor worms. Common anti-parasitics used in fish farming include formalin, malachite green, and copper sulfate.
  3. Immunostimulants: These are used to boost the fish’s immune system and help them fight off infections. Common immunostimulants used in fish farming include levamisole, garlic extract, and yeast extract.
  4. Vitamin and mineral supplements: These are used to provide essential nutrients to the fish, such as vitamins A, D, and E, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
  5. Probiotics: These are used to promote a healthy gut flora and improve the overall health of the fish. Common probiotics used in fish farming include Bacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus acidophilus.

It’s important to note that the use of these products should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or aquaculture expert to avoid overuse and resistance. Also, the farmers should be aware of the regulations regarding the use of these products as overuse or misuse can have negative impact on the environment and human health.

 

How to maintain fish pond health in fish farming, what should a farmer do regularly?

Maintaining the health of fish ponds is crucial for the success of fish farming in India. Here are some steps that farmers should take regularly to ensure the health and well-being of their fish:

  1. Monitor water quality: Regularly test the water for pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and other parameters to ensure that the water is within the optimal range for the species of fish being raised.
  2. Maintain proper stocking density: Overcrowding can lead to increased competition for food and oxygen, as well as a higher risk of disease.
  3. Provide proper nutrition: Fish require a balanced diet to maintain their health and grow properly. Feed them with the appropriate food and in the right quantity.
  4. Keep the pond clean: Regularly remove debris and waste from the pond to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
  5. Monitor for diseases: Keep an eye out for signs of disease, such as abnormal swimming behavior, abnormal coloration, and lethargy. If any signs of disease are observed, consult a veterinarian or aquaculture expert immediately.
  6. Implement proper biosecurity measures: Biosecurity measures such as disinfecting equipment, boots and clothing that come in contact with fish and keeping wild animals and birds away from the pond can prevent the spread of disease.
  7. Keep records: Keep track of all the actions taken to maintain the pond health, it helps to identify trends and patterns that may indicate a problem, and also it helps in decision making.

By following these steps, farmers can help ensure the health and well-being of their fish, which in turn can lead to a successful harvest. It’s also important to note that farmers should be familiar with the regulations regarding fish farming and comply with them to prevent negative impact on the environment and human health.

Fish Medicine at Rs 200/bottle | Fish Breeding Medicine in Jalpaiguri | ID:  21687438048

Top fish farming medicine products in India farmers use

In India, fish farmers commonly use a variety of medicines to help maintain the health of their fish and prevent disease. Here are some of the top fish farming medicine products that farmers commonly use and can buy:

  1. Formalin: Formalin is a common disinfectant used in fish farming to control bacterial and fungal infections.
  2. Oxytetracycline: Oxytetracycline is an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections in fish such as columnaris, vibriosis, and aeromoniasis.
  3. Copper Sulphate: Copper Sulphate is commonly used as an algaecide and fungicide in fish ponds and also as an antimicrobial agent to control various diseases caused by bacteria, fungus, and parasites.
  4. Malachite Green: Malachite Green is an antifungal and antiparasitic agent used to treat various diseases in fish such as Ichthyophthiriasis, Chilodonelliasis, and Dactylogyriasis.
  5. Metronidazole: Metronidazole is an antiprotozoal agent used to treat diseases such as Hexamita and Spironucleus in fish.
  6. Levamisole: Levamisole is an anthelmintic agent used to control parasitic worms in fish.
  7. Amitraz: Amitraz is a pesticide used to control ectoparasites such as sea lice in fish.

Disease management in tilapia - Responsible Seafood Advocate

It’s important to note that many of these products are available in different forms such as liquid, powder and tablets. Also, the use of these products should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or aquaculture expert to ensure the safety of fish and the environment. Furthermore, the farmers should be aware of the regulations and laws regarding the use of these products and comply with them.

 

Medicines for common fish diseases

In fish farming, it is important to be aware of common diseases that can affect the health of the fish and to have appropriate treatments on hand. Some of the most common fish diseases and the corresponding medicines used to treat them are:

  1. Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich) – This is a parasitic infection that causes white spots on the skin and fins of the fish. It is commonly treated with medications such as malachite green, formalin and copper sulphate.
    White Spot / Ich | INDOMAHSEER AQUACULTURE
  2. Aeromonas hydrophila – This is a bacterial infection that can cause ulcers and hemorrhages on the skin and fins of the fish. It is commonly treated with antibiotics such as oxytetracycline, kanamycin and ampicillin.
    Molecular identification and epizootiology of Aeromonas veronii infection  among farmed Oreochromis niloticus in Eastern Province, KSA - ScienceDirect
  3. Vibrio anguillarum – This is a bacterial infection that can cause red skin discoloration and swelling of the body in fish. It is commonly treated with antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin and erythromycin.
    pics_vibriosis_lesions
  4. Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) – This is a disease caused by a fungus that can cause ulcers and skin erosion on fish. It is commonly treated with antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole and itraconazole.
    epizootic ulcerative syndrome | CABI Compendium
  5. Parasitic infestations like Argulus, Lernaea, Gyrodactylus etc. – These are external parasitic infestations which can be treated with different medicines like formaldehyde, formalin, copper sulphate, quinine hydrochloride, diflubenzuron etc.
    Fish disease and parasites - Wikipedia

It’s important to note that, before administering any treatment, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or aquaculture specialist to ensure that the correct diagnosis is made and that the appropriate medication is used.

 

Fish Farming Pond Dont’s

  1. Don’t overstock the pond: Overcrowding can lead to poor water quality and an increased risk of disease. Fish farmers should stock their ponds at a rate that is appropriate for the size of the pond and the species of fish being raised.
  2. Don’t overfeed the fish: Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and an increased risk of disease. Fish farmers should feed their fish a balanced diet that is appropriate for the species and size of the fish.
  3. Don’t neglect pond maintenance: Regular maintenance such as cleaning the pond, removing debris, and monitoring water quality is essential for the health of the fish and the overall success of the fish farm.
  4. Don’t neglect disease management: Fish farmers should be aware of the signs of disease and take action to prevent and treat it promptly.
  5. Don’t use too many chemicals: While chemicals can be useful in managing disease in fish farming, excessive use can lead to negative impacts on the environment and human health.
  6. Don’t ignore the importance of water quality: Proper water quality is essential for the health and survival of fish. Fish farmers should regularly test the water and take steps to maintain optimal pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels.
  7. Don’t ignore the importance of aeration: Adequate aeration is essential for the health and survival of fish. Fish farmers should ensure that their ponds have an adequate aeration system.
  8. Don’t ignore the importance of proper drainage: Proper drainage is essential for the health and survival of fish. Fish farmers should ensure that their ponds have an adequate drainage system to prevent flooding and waterlogging.
  9. Don’t neglect the importance of biosecurity: Biosecurity measures such as preventing the introduction of disease-causing organisms and minimizing the spread of disease are critical for the success of any fish farm.
  10. Don’t ignore the importance of regulations and laws: Fish farmers should be aware of and comply with all regulations and laws related to fish farming and the use of chemicals.

 

In addition to using appropriate medicines, fish farmers should also focus on implementing good management practices to minimize the risk of disease. These include maintaining good water quality, providing appropriate feeding and nutrition, and ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene. By following these guidelines and using appropriate fish farming medicines, farmers can help to ensure the health and productivity of their fish farms.

In conclusion, fish farming medicines play an important role in maintaining the health and productivity of fish farms in India. However, it is important to use these drugs responsibly and in accordance with good management practices to minimize the risk of negative impact on environment and human health. By working together, fish farmers, scientists, policymakers and researchers can help to create a sustainable and profitable aquaculture industry in India.

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