Effect of Fish Farming Practices on the Biodiversity of Bacterial Intestinal Flora of the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Ponds

Et Al., Yemelong

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.405885

Effect of Fish Farming Practices on the Biodiversity of Bacterial Intestinal Flora of the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Ponds

Author

Yemelong et al.

10.21608/ejabf.2025.405885

Abstract

Therapeutic failures and persistent bacterial diseases in fish farming are linked to the complex intestinal microbiota in fish. Understanding both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria can aid in diagnostics and inform farming practices. This study, conducted in East Cameroon’s bimodal forest agro-ecological zone, examined the intestinal bacterial diversity in Cyprinus carpio from 15 ponds practicing unfertilized, composting, and piscirice culture. Intestinal contents were analyzed using microbial cultures and biochemical tests. Fifteen bacterial species were identified, including Salmonella arizonae, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Shigella spp < em>., with pathogenic species more common in compost ponds. Beneficial species were more abundant in piscirice culture ponds. A positive correlation between bacterial abundance and ammonium levels in water was observed. These findings suggest that farming practices influence bacterial diversity in common carp. To reduce contamination risks, minimizing in-pond composting is recommended.

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