Infection status with the metacercariae of heterophyid flukes in the brackish water fish from Haenam-gun, Chollanam-do, Korea

Abstract

An epidemiological survey was performed to know the infection status of heterophyid fluke metacercariae in the brackish water fishes purchased from a local market in Haenam-gun, Chollanam-do, Korea from November to December, 1991. A total 20 out of 30 shads (Konosirus punctatus) examined were infected with the metacercariae of H. continua (average number of larvae per an infected fish: 2.7). Of 20 perches (Lateolabrax japonicus), 19 were infected with the metacercariae of H. continua (average number per an infected fish: 17.2). Of 30 mullets (Mugil cephalus) examined, 11 were infected with the metacercariae of H. nocens (average number per an infected fish: 51.5), 10 mullets harboured 31 and 349 metacercariae of P. summa and S. fuscatum respectively. Of 30 gobies (Acanthogobius flavimanus) examined, 3 were infected with the metacercariae of H. nocens (average number per an infected fish: 32.0), 8 with those of H. continua (average number per an infected fish: 12.6) and 3 with those of S. fuscatum. From the above results, it has been confirmed that the brackish water fish from Haenam-gun, Chollanam-do are infected with numerous metacercariae of H. nocens, H. continua, P. summa and S. fuscatum.