First Report of Glochidia (Mollusca: Lamellibranchiata) Infestation in Aquarium Fish (Flowerhorn) from Iran

Abstract

Glochidia are the larva stage of bivalve mollusks (Lamellibranchiata). These temporary obligate parasites are apparent on the fins and gills and rarely on the surface of fish in spring, summer, and autumn. In spring 2018, a flowerhorn (cichlid) with spots appearing body and gills and white small mobile organisms on the floor of an aquarium were referred to the parasitology laboratory in the School of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Unit, Tehran Islamic Azad University. The organisms were sampled and clear in Potas 10% fixed by Glycerin gelatin and examined with a light microscope; the samples were diagnosed as Glochidia.