The use of nitazoxanide against the pathogens Ichthyophthirius multifiliis and Aeromonas hydrophila in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen)

The antiparasitic and antibacterial activities of nitazoxanide (NTZ) against Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich) and Aeromonas hydrophila, respectively, were evaluated in silver catfish juveniles (Rhamdia quelen). In the first experiment, fish naturally infected by Ich were treated with different concentrations of NTZ. Fish mortality and the number of trophonts/juveniles were evaluated. In the second experiment, the antimicrobial potential in vitro (MIC test) and preventive potential in vivo against A. hydrophila was evaluated. The treatment with 1.5 mg L−1 NTZ showed the best result against Ich, with a significant reduction of trophonts and fish mortality of 10%. NTZ did not show in vitro activity against A. hydrophila at concentrations tested, but showed a probable preventive activity in vivo. However, these results are preliminary and more studies should be conducted.