BACILLUS SALMONICIDUS Meaning and
Definition
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Bacillus salmonicidus is a bacterial species that belongs to the phylum Firmicutes and the genus Bacillus. This bacterium is primarily known for its significant impact on the fisheries industry. It is specifically characterized by its ability to cause a severe and fatal disease called bacterial kidney disease (BKD) in various salmonid species.
The bacterium is rod-shaped and typically measures around 2-5 micrometers in length. It is Gram-positive, meaning it retains a purple-blue stain when subjected to the Gram staining technique, indicating the presence of a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall. Additionally, Bacillus salmonicidus is motile, possessing several peritrichous flagella that allow it to move through its aquatic environment.
Bacillus salmonicidus is highly pathogenic to salmonids, including salmon, trout, and other related species. It is often transmitted through direct contact between infected and susceptible fish or through contaminated water sources. The bacterium primarily affects the kidneys of the fish, leading to inflammation, necrosis, and eventually kidney failure. Infected individuals exhibit clinical signs such as darkened coloration, abnormal swimming behavior, weight loss, and increased mortality rates.
Due to its devastating impact on farmed and wild salmonid populations, techniques for the detection, prevention, and control of Bacillus salmonicidus infections have been developed. These include the implementation of strict biosecurity measures, such as quarantine protocols and disinfection practices, as well as the development of vaccines to protect susceptible fish populations.
In summary, Bacillus salmonicidus is a rod-shaped, Gram-positive bacterium that is pathogenic to salmonid species, causing a severe and often fatal disease known as bacterial kidney disease. Its impact on the fisheries
Etymology of BACILLUS SALMONICIDUS
The word "Bacillus salmonicidus" has a Latin etymology. The term "bacillus" comes from the Latin word "bacillum", which means a small rod or staff. It refers to the shape of the bacteria, which appears as tiny rods under a microscope.
The term "salmonicidus" is a combination of two Latin words. "Salmo" means salmon, and "cida" means to kill. Therefore, "salmonicidus" translates to "salmon-killing" or "killer of salmon". This name was given to the bacterium because it is known to cause a disease called "bacterial kidney disease" in salmonid fish, which can be fatal.
