Klaus Knopf

Klaus Knopf is a Research Group Leader in the Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) in Berlin. He specializes in experimental parasitology, fish immunology, and parasite ecology, with a focus on host-parasite interactions in aquaculture and wild aquatic systems.

• Department: Fish Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture
• Role: Research Group Leader
• Email: klaus.knopf@igb-berlin.de

Knopf's research explores the immunological and physiological responses of fish to parasitic infections, particularly Anguillicola crassus in European eels. He investigates parasite ecology, stress induction from contaminants like potash mining effluents, and environmental impacts such as artificial light at night on fish immunity. His work also addresses sustainable aquaculture practices, including aquaponic feed development and nutrient cycling efficiency.

Recent publications highlight trends in parasitology, immunology, and sustainable food systems. Key themes include trematode infections in tench (2025), plant-based aquaponic diets for African catfish (2024, and fulvic acid applications to enhance fish immunity (2021). His group employs sonophoresis for vaccine delivery and studies parasite-driven shifts in aquatic food webs.

Knopf's laboratory at IGB collaborates on circular multitrophic food production systems and investigates the role of parasites in ecosystem health. He mentors doctoral candidates and interns while leading interdisciplinary projects on aquatic biodiversity conservation.