CLASSIFICATION METHOD OF THE LEVEL OF INFESTATION OF Lernaea IN FISH BASED ON ANATOMICAL ZONING OF THE BODY

Abstract

This invention concerns a method for classifying the level of Lernaea infestation in fish based on the anatomical zoning of the fish body. This method includes dividing the fish body into a number of anatomical zones, identifying the attachment locations and the number of Lernaea in each anatomical zone, determining the physiological function of each anatomical zone, assigning a risk level based on the potential physiological disturbances caused by the Lernaea infestation, and analyzing the distribution pattern of the infestation to determine the category of the level of infestation. This invention is characterized by the combination of using the location of the infestation and the predilection pattern of Lernaea in certain anatomical zones as the basis for infestation classification. Through this method, infestations in anatomical zones that have a higher level of physiological risk can be distinguished from infestations in other zones that have a lower level of risk, even though the number of parasites found is the same.This invention provides a method that is simple, fast, easy to apply in the field, and does not require complex laboratory equipment so that it can be used for early detection of Lernaea infestation, and decision making in fish health management.