Microbial Load in the Gut of Wild Fish Species (Neoarius Berneyi) from the River-Nun at Amassoma, Bayelsa State: A Post Flood Assesment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajff.v1i1.6690Keywords:
Amassoma, Bayelsa State, Cat Fish, Microbial Load, Neoarius Berneyi, Post Flood, River-NunAbstract
The microbial burden in the gastrointestinal system of the Neoarius berneyi wild fish species from River Nun in Amassoma was assessed after the flood. The study’s objectives were to identify and isolate the bacterial species that were present and evaluate any possible effects they might have on human health by way of the food chain. Using conventional laboratory techniques, specimens were taken from the mouth, stomach, and intestines of wild fish samples that were obtained from fishermen’s catches for bacteriological investigation. The results showed that the highest percentage frequency was 8 (44.4%) for Bacillus subtilis, 5 (27.2%) for Escherichia coli, 3 (16.7%) for Staphylococcus aureus, and 2 (11.1%) for Salmonella enteritidis. The findings imply that catfish collected from rivers affected by flooding have a comparatively high bacterial load. Overall, the study shows that the bacteriological quality and safety of catfish are greatly impacted by floodwater intrusion from various sources.
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