Effect of Propolis, a Honeybee Product, Against a Parasite (Ligictaluridus floridanus) from Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) Gills.

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of propolis against Ligictaluridus floridanus on Ictalurus punctatus gills. METHODS: This study used an ethanol extract of propolis at a concentration of 300&#xa0;mg&#xa0;mL, with a total polyphenol concentration of 2.77&#xa0;mg&#xa0;mLas determined by chromatography. In vitro trial used propolis concentrations at 5, 30 as well as 60&#xa0;mg Land a 70% ethanol control group to treat naturally infected catfish. The in vivo experiment was 16&#xa0;weeks in duration, consisting of seventy-two fish infected by cohabitation and subjected to one-hour baths every 72&#xa0;h during the trial. RESULTS: In vitro studies showed that parasites exposed to 60&#xa0;mg Lof propolis displayed a significant reduction (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) in their survival time. In vivo studies confirmed the reduction of intensity and abundance of Ligictaluridus floridanus on the gills of channel catfish. CONCLUSION: This study has provided the first challenge of propolis against L. floridanus on I. punctatus gills and shows that propolis has an anthelmintic effect.