IDENTIFICATION OF PATHOGENIC FUNGUS IN FRESH WATER FISHES OF MUNGELI DISTRICT OF CHHATTISGARH

Abstract Fungal diseases caused by heterotrophic organisms that are part of the biota of their surrounding fresh water environment. Study was conducted for identification of pathogenic fungus from Anabas testudineus, Channa striata, Barbodes binotatus, Pethia conchonius, Barbonymus gonionotus, Oreochromis mossambicus, Clarias batrachus and Puntius sophore and test was run for identifying the actual causative agent of the infection. The fish sample was collected from different aquatic ponds located in district Mungeli to Microbiology laboratory of the Dr. C. V. Raman University and placed in tray for taking sample from different part such as gill, fin, skin, whole body and barbells of the fish by using wire loop then there were taking in culture medium viz; PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) and SDA (Sabouraud Dextrose Agar) used to observe fungus colony and growth. Pathogen status was observed in microscope. Biochemical tests for the colonies of fungus were carried out in which of MR (Methyl Red) and Indole (Kava’s Indole) showed positive (+ve) but test of VP (Voges Proskauer) showed negative (-ve) result. The following diseases were observed EUS (Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome), Saprolegniasis (CWD- Cotton Wool Disease), Barbell rot, Branchiomycosis by fungal pathogen viz; Aphanomyces invadans, Saprolegnia parasitica, Branchiomyces demigrans respectively. Fungal diseases are very serious problem, prevalent and fatal. The control for fungal infectons is good water quality, proper nutrition and good management of fresh water pond.