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Leeches on mudskippers: host-parasite interaction at the water's edge
G Polgar1, E M Burreson, F Stefani
1Dipartimento di Biologia Animale e dell'Uomo, Istituto di Zoologia, University of Rome La Sapienza, V.le dell'Università, 32, 00195 Rome, Italy. polgar@alfanet.it
The Journal of Parasitology
|March 4, 2009
Summary
A new host-parasite relationship was identified between the Zeylanicobdella arugamensis leech and the amphibious goby Scartelaos tenuis in Iran. This leech species selectively parasitizes S. tenuis, particularly larger individuals, in its intertidal habitat.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Parasitology
- Ichthyology
Background:
- Interactions between fish and ectoparasites are crucial in aquatic ecosystems.
- Mudskippers (amphibious gobies) inhabit intertidal zones, presenting unique ecological niches.
- Understanding host-parasite specificity is key to comprehending population dynamics and ecosystem health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document a novel host-parasite association between a leech and an amphibious goby species.
- To identify the leech species and determine its host specificity among sympatric mudskippers.
- To investigate factors influencing the observed host-parasite distribution.
Main Methods:
- Field surveys on an intertidal mud flat in southern Iran.
- Morphological and molecular analyses to identify the leech species.
- Prevalence and intensity data collection for leech infestation on different mudskipper species.
- Laboratory observations of leech attachment on various goby species.
Main Results:
- The piscicolid leech was identified as Zeylanicobdella arugamensis.
- Leeches were found exclusively on Scartelaos tenuis among three sympatric mudskipper species, with a prevalence of 71.4%.
- Larger S. tenuis specimens (>12 cm SL) hosted more leeches, though leeches also attached to Periophthalmus waltoni in aquaria.
Conclusions:
- Scartelaos tenuis is the primary host for Zeylanicobdella arugamensis in this intertidal environment.
- Host specificity may be influenced by habitat selection, leech tolerance to air exposure, or a combination of factors.
- Ecological partitioning may play a role in structuring these host-parasite complexes.
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