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A first case of myiasis in fish
G A Bristow1, B Berland, S A Fosså
1Zoologisk Laboratorium, University of Bergen, Norway.
The Journal of Parasitology
|April 1, 1990
Summary
MaggOTS of an unidentified species of Caliphora were found in freshwater fish (Astyanax mexicanus fasciatus) imported from Hong Kong to Norway. This marks the first documented instance of fish myiasis, a parasitic infestation by fly larvae.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Parasitology
- Ichthyology
Background:
- Fish are susceptible to various parasitic infections.
- Myiasis, the infestation of live animals by fly larvae (maggots), is well-documented in terrestrial vertebrates but rarely reported in fish.
- Aquatic ecosystems can be pathways for disease transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the first reported case of fish myiasis.
- To identify the causative agent of myiasis in the affected fish.
- To highlight potential risks associated with the international trade of aquatic organisms.
Main Methods:
- Morphological identification of maggot larvae.
- Analysis of fish samples for parasitic infestation.
- Tracing the origin and shipping route of the affected fish.
Main Results:
- Maggots of an unidentified species of the blowfly genus Caliphora were identified within the freshwater fish Astyanax mexicanus fasciatus.
- The fish were imported from Hong Kong to Norway.
- This finding represents the first confirmed case of myiasis in fish.
Conclusions:
- The international trade of fish can facilitate the spread of unexpected parasitic infections.
- Further research is needed to understand the biology and ecological impact of Caliphora species in aquatic environments.
- Surveillance and quarantine measures are crucial to prevent the introduction of invasive species and diseases in aquaculture and wild fish populations.
