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Dynamics of the Argulosis spread in fish in Ukraine for the period 2022–2024

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of the epizootic process associated with fish infestation with Argulus in Ukraine during 2022–2024. Argulus is a parasitic disease caused by crustaceans of the genus Argulus (so-called fish lice). These ectoparasites attach themselves to the external coverings of fish, damaging the skin, causing stress, reducing immunity, and causing secondary bacterial infections. Mass infections can lead to fish mortality, especially in intensive aquaculture conditions. Data on the detection of argulosis in different regions of Ukraine have been collected, systematized, and analyzed, which made it possible to trace the dynamics of its spread in space and time. Statistical indicators by region were provided, which made it possible to identify areas of increased epizootic risk. It was found that the highest number of cases of invasion was recorded in regions with developed f isheries, as well as in the southern and central regions, where favorable conditions for the development of the pathogen are created. The study highlights the significant economic consequences of Argulosis: a decrease in biomass growth, deterioration in the marketability of fish, a decrease in the market value of products, an increase in treatment and prevention costs, and a decrease in the overall efficiency of fisheries enterprises. Based on the results, it was concluded that it is necessary to improve the monitoring system, introduce regular veterinary and sanitary measures, carry out preventive treatments, and raise awareness among specialists about biosafety in aquaculture. The recommendations provided can be used to develop an effective strategy for the control and prevention of Argulosis in Ukraine. According to the analysis of the epizootic process of fish infection dynamics with Argulus from 2022 to 2024 in Ukraine, the highest level of infestation was recorded in the northern and partly in the central part of Ukraine. The affected areas included five regions: Rivne, Khmelnytskyi, Chernivtsi, Volyn, and Kharkiv. The study emphasizes the importance of control and prevention of Argulus infestation for maintaining f ish health.

Keywords: Argulosis, expansion, epizootic process, territory.

LITVINENKO O.


MIROSHNICHENKO O. https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0445-1963


YANENKO U. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5678-3356


PISHCHANSKYI O. https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0111-4977


ALIEKSEIEVA H. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6158-5960


KULYKOVA V. https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8827-030X


KYIVSKA G. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2390-8498


MATVIIENKO O. https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4147-7709


KARPULENKO M. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8982-9031


TOGACHYNSKA L. https://orcid.org/0009-0005-5032-5940


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Scientific Journal of Veterinary Medicine 2'2025