DAO 113:207-213 (2015)  -  DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/dao02847

ABSTRACT: Peracetic acid (PAA) is a therapeutic agent used for disinfection in aquaculture, but it must be investigated thoroughly in order to mitigate diseases without harming the fish. Successful disinfectants (like PAA) should not leave dangerous residues in the environment in order to successfully contribute to sustainable aquaculture. The aim of our study was to compare the effectiveness of 6 commercial PAA products with different molecular PAA:H₂O₂ ratios to reduce bacterial growth of Aeromonas salmonicida and Yersinia ruckeri and to determine effective concentrations and exposure times. All products reduced colony-forming units (CFUs) of A. salmonicida and Y. ruckeri. Products with higher molecular PAA:H₂O₂ ratios inhibited growth better than products with lower molecular PAA:H₂O₂ ratios at the same PAA concentration; this indicates that H₂O₂ is not the driving force in the reduction of A. salmonicida and Y. ruckeri growth by PAA in vitro. The practical application of the products with high molecular PAA:H₂O₂ ratios should be prioritized if these pathogens are diagnosed.

KEY WORDS: PAA · Peroxide · H₂O₂ · Furunculosis · Yersiniosis · Fish pathogen · Aquaculture · Bacteria · Water treatment