Comparative Study of Microbial Enumeration, Characterization and Identification in Farmed Catfish (clarias Gariepinus) from Water Samples Obtained from Three Fish Ponds in Egbejila, Kwara State, Ilorin, Nigeria.

Student: Ayotomiwa Abidemi Agunbiade (Project, 2025)
Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries
University of Ilorin, Kwara State

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis of microbial enumeration, characterization, and identification in farmed Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) using water samples collected from three earthen ponds in Egbejila, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. The research was conducted to assess the microbial load and diversity, with emphasis on potential pathogenic bacteria and fungi that pose threats to fish health and public safety. Water samples were analyzed through serial dilution and cultured on appropriate media for microbial isolation. Bacterial and fungal isolates were identified using morphological and biochemical tests. Results revealed the presence of various microorganisms including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella sp., Aeromonas spp., and fungi such as Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Fusarium sp. The microbial loads varied across the ponds and months, reflecting differences in environmental conditions and farm management practices. The findings underscore the importance of regular microbial monitoring and biosecurity in aquaculture to ensure fish productivity and consumer health

Keywords
Catfish pond water grams reaction biochemical test fungi coliform
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