Amyloodinium ocellatum

Amyloodinium ocellatum, a triphasic dinoflagellate parasite, is a significant threat to captive fish resulting in substantial economic losses in temperate and tropical aquaculture, especially in lagoon-based and land-based systems. Amyloodiniosis, or marine velvet disease, results in high morbidity and up to 100% mortality under certain farming conditions (e.g. parasite load, fish species and season). Current knowledge includes significant biological and epidemiological data on A. ocellatum, diagnostic methods and effective therapeutic protocols which may not be eco-friendly. While a few studies provide valuable insights, comprehensive knowledge concerning parasite–host interactions and the diverse physiological responses in different hosts remains incomplete. Genomic characterization is lacking, and further efforts are needed to identify critical genes involved in its life-cycle stages and virulence. Also, the development of effective vaccines against amyloodiniosis and pharmacological therapies is warranted.