The Open Fish Science Journal
2011, 4 : 40-48Published online 2011 August 11. DOI: 10.2174/1874401X01104010040
Publisher ID: TOFISHSJ-4-40
A Review of Flavobacterium Psychrophilum Biology, Clinical Signs, and Bacterial Cold Water Disease Prevention and Treatment
South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks McNenny State Fish Hatchery 19619 Trout Loop Spearfish, South Dakota USA.
ABSTRACT
Bacterial coldwater disease and other infections caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum are a worldwide concern, particularly for freshwater salmonid hatcheries. F. psychrophilum infections can be difficult to control; antibiotic resistance is common and no effective vaccines are currently available. This review summarizes the biology and characteristics of this important pathogen, as well as the techniques required for isolation and identification. In addition, the epidemiology, clinical signs, treatment, and possible preventative measures of bacterial coldwater disease are discussed.