Biological study of Furnestinia echeneis Euzet and Audouin 1959 (Monogenea: Monopisthocotylea: Diplectanidae), parasite of cultured Gilthead sea bream Sparus aurata (Linnaeus 1758) (Pisces: Teleostei) from Corsica

Abstract

The Gilthead sea bream Sparus aurata is one of the most important fish commonly cultured in the Mediterranean area. Outbreaks have significant effects on commercial production and could reduce the expansion of the industry in some countries. During a survey of Gilthead sea bream of Corsican fish farms, the biology of Furnestinia echeneis (Monogenea, Monopisthocotylea: Diplectanidae) under culture conditions was studied. The surface topography of F. echeneis was studied with scanning electron microscopy to give additional information about the lifestyle of the parasite. Morphological details, including tegumental features, not described previously were revealed. We studied mainly the adaptations of the parasite, i.e. sensory organs and haptor, enabling it to ensure the survival of the species. Rates of infestations of the parasite exhibited seasonal variations, with maximal infection levels occurring in autumn and minimal values recorded in spring. The influence of temperature on the life cycle of F. echeneis was also highlighted. The fluctuations in rates of infestations showed that water temperature has a great influence on population development.