In Vitro Efficacy of Albendazole Against the Metacestode Parvitaenia cochlearii (Cestoda), a Parasite of the Pacific Fat Sleeper (Dormitator latifrons)

Abstract

Cestode infestations in cultured fish have resulted in significant economic problems associated with international trade. Pharmacological treatments containing albendazole (ABZ) represent a promising alternative for controlling these infestations. This study evaluated the in vitro efficacy of ABZ against the metacestode Parvitaenia cochlearii, a parasite of the Pacific fat sleeper (Dormitator latifrons), by exposing the parasites to different concentrations (200, 600, 800, and 1000 mg/L). The median lethal concentration (LC50) was determined at 10 and 15 min of exposure. Results showed that ABZ was 100% effective in killing P. cochlearii, achieving complete mortality at 15 min with a concentration of 600 mg/L, and at 30 min with 200 mg/L. The LC50 value decreased over time, with 618.91 mg/L at 10 min and 260.32 mg/L at 15 min, indicating a cumulative effect of ABZ on metacestode tissues. In conclusion, ABZ is an effective treatment against cestode infestations, and further evaluation under experimental and commercial scales is recommended to establish control protocols in aquaculture systems.