Fish farming is considered a highly profitable occupation in Bangladesh, and the cultivation of shing fish in ponds has expanded significantly in recent years. However, one of the major challenges faced by farmers is bacterial disease, which can cause rapid and large-scale fish mortality if not addressed in time.
According to fisheries experts, shing fish affected by bacterial infections often show a loss of appetite. Infected fish may become unbalanced and move with sudden jerking motions. Their bodies may turn pale, and signs of tail rot can appear. A noticeable reduction in body mucus is also observed. In severe cases, widespread mortality can occur within two to seven days of infection.
To control bacterial diseases in shing fish, farmers are advised to apply lime and salt to the pond at a rate of 300 to 500 grams per decimal. For ponds with a water depth of three feet, ciprofloxacin should be applied at a rate of five to seven grams per decimal for three to four consecutive days.
In addition, ciprofloxacin may be mixed with feed at a rate of one to two grams per kilogram of feed and administered to the fish for five to seven days. If necessary, partial water exchange should be carried out, and farmers should ensure that shing fish are cultured at an appropriate stocking density to reduce disease risk.
The information on the symptoms and treatment of bacterial diseases in shing fish has been collected from the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute in Mymensingh.
