Abstract

Calvin Gomo, T. Hanyire, P.V. Makaya and S Sibanda

The aim of the study was to investigate the causes of mortality of fish in Darwendale Dam in Zimbabwe. Findings of laboratory gross examination of lesions were consistent EUS. Histopathology examination showed that the fish had mycotic granulomas. Fish of all ages were affected. High mortalities and severity of ulceration suggests a relatively recent invasion by A. invadans at Darwendale dam. EUS spread from Darwendale to other areas due to improper surveillance and poor control strategy due to lack of EUS knowledge by fishermen and authorities. More studies needed to be done in Zimbabwe to determine species of fish affected, strain A invadans circulating and control measures to prevent spread of diseases. EUS was confirmed in Seranochromis robustus in Zimbabwe in 2013. The study is the first published account of infection with Alphanomyces. invadans in the wild fish populations (Seranochromis robustus) of the Darwendale Dam in Zimbabwe.