Occurrence and distribution of parasites in relation to food components of grey gurnard, Eutrigla gurnardus (L.) (Teleostei: Scorpaeniformes), off the Shetland Islands

Abstract

Abstract The research was conducted on the parasite fauna and food composition of Eutrigla gurnardus caught as by-catch in commercial catches of the Atlantic cod Gadus morhua near the Shetland Islands. Thirteen species and two genera of pathogens were identified, including six species and one genus recorded for the first time in this host. Copepoda — Euphausiacea dominated in the stomach contents (they are also the intermediate hosts for most of the parasites found), while Gadidae dominated among the fish. A checklist of E. gurnardus parasites is included.