Research Article
Huicab-Pech ZG ,Landeros-S&
Abstract
Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) is a species having tolerance to low water quality and disease, yet in recent years its cultivation has been faced with problems related to infections with bacteria such as Aeromonas spp., Streptococcus spp., Edwardsiella spp. and Francisella spp., each characterized by mortality between 15% and 90% of aquaculture production. These economic losses are associated with poor management practices, minimal producer knowledge of disease control, and the maintenance of overly high densities; which they are directly related to electricity consumption, land use and water management, inputs of raw materials, and manpower for operating links in the value-chain. Mortalities are measured according to the degree of pathogenicity, which depends on the alteration and progression of physiological conditions of the host under the influence of environmental factors, health status and pathogen virulence. There is currently a need to confront and diminish the degree of pathogenicity, and researchers are seeking alternatives that allow the use and application of probiotic bacteria, plant extracts and vaccines. Here, we review the main pathogenic bacteria found in Oreochromis niloticus culture operations and options for controlling the appearance of bacterial pathogens in aquaculture production.