Metazoan Parasites Of Tuna Fish Species: Bullet Tuna (Auxis Rochei) And Frigate Tuna (Auxis Thazard) In Local Fish Markets Of Davao City

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the metazoan parasites of commercially significant fish species, particularly bullet tuna (Auxis rochei) and frigate tuna (Auxis thazard) collected from major fish public markets in Davao City using descriptive statistics research method. Results showed that the examined fishes from the markets were infected with different kinds of parasites. Based on comparisons, Site C market had the greatest parasitic community. Moreover, the fish species with the greatest number of parasitic community and greatest number of parasitic individuals was A. rochei with five distinct species namely Caligus quadratus, Anisakis simplex, Rhadinorhynchus pristis, Monogenean trematodes, and Dinurus scombri. The parasites that were observed to be the most prevalent, most abundant, and with the highest mean density value were the acanthocephalans (R. pristis). A higher magnification of the microscopes for better focus on the parasites is recommended particularly in identifying the proboscis of acanthocephalans. The scale on the photograph is needed to determine the size of each specimen. The number of fish to be examined could be increased for more valid results. Further longer-term investigations are needed, include investigation of fish parasites as it provides information useful for the determination of specific precautionary measures in handling, preparing, and cooking to avoid parasitic infestation and infection. Thus, public health awareness of fish parasites is important.