Investigations on the Diversity of Parasitic Protozoa Infecting Fish Along the Imiringi Axis of the Kolo Creek in Ogbia, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Fish is recognized as a significant nutrient source for protein and a source of livelihood to rural inhabitants; but its sustainability in the natural waters is threatened by parasitic infestations. Nevertheless, this study investigates the diversity of parasitic protozoa infecting fish along the Imiringi axis of the kolo creek in Ogbia. A total of 72 fish were sampled for infections of parasitic protozoa and 17 (23.6 %) were reportedly positive of various pathogenic protozoa Species. The parasitic protozoal load recorded in this study was 36, unevenly distributed among the fish species examined. The study displays high diversity of parasitic protozoa suggesting threat to fish sustainability. The study established that parasitic-protozoa will thrive in every aquatic ecosystem with sufficient hydrological properties supporting proliferation and dispersal. The study further established that ecto and endo-parasitic protozoa infect fish in combination and complicate severity of infection, compromising health and market value. Fish species residential at the benthic zone are most vulnerable to infections of parasitic protozoa within the water ecosystem. The rural resident and fisher men should adopt community-based protection against water contamination to discourage parasite bloom and improve fish health in the nature water ecosystem.