Spawning-related fungal infection of golden galaxias Galaxias auratus (Galaxiidae)

Abstract

The occurrence of golden galaxias Galaxias auratus with dermal fungal lesions in two populations was effectively modelled by the progression of gonadal stages of development. Skin lesions were found to be characteristic of fungal dermatitis and a Saprolegnia sp. was identified as the causative agent. Infection is probably linked to spawning-related factors and it is probable that saprolegniasis is associated with seasonal mortality.