Parasites Fauna in Barracuda Fishes on the Western Coast of Libya

Parasite Diversity in Native Barracudas of Libya: Implications for Marine Health

This study investigates parasites in native Barracuda fish species (Sphyraena viridensis and Sphyraena sphyraena) along the western coast of Libya. A total of 52 S. viridensis and 50 S. sphyraena were collected from local fishermen. The research identified seven parasite species, including trematodes, cestodes, and arthropods.

Key findings include:

32% infection rate in S. viridensis and 48% in S. sphyraena.
Scolex pleuronectis had the highest prevalence (94.2% in S. viridensis and 39.2% in S. sphyraena).
Vargula sp. was the least prevalent parasite (1.96% in S. sphyraena).
Parasites were collected from various organs, including gills, stomach, skin, and eyes.
Some parasites were non-indigenous, highlighting potential bioinvasion risks in Libyan waters.

This research provides essential data for fisheries management and marine biodiversity conservation.

Key Findings :

High Parasitic Load in Barracuda Species: Some parasites may affect fish health and fisheries productivity.
Parasites as Bioindicators: Some species can be used to monitor fish migration and ecosystem health.
Call for Further Research: More studies are needed to understand host-parasite relationships and their impact on fisheries.

Research Type :

Field Study & Parasitology Assessment

Keywords :

Marine parasites, barracuda fish, Mediterranean Sea, fisheries health, biodiversity, Libya

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Publication Details

Received Date: January 12, 2021
Accepted Date: April 30, 2021
Published Date: January 1, 2022
Publisher: Libyan Journal of Ecological & Environmental Sciences and Technology (LJEEST)
DOI: http://aif-doi.org/LJEEST

Authors

Aisha A. Seif Al-Naser

(University of Tripoli)
Sarah A. Benzeglam

(University of Tripoli)
Mohamed Showehdi

(Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tripoli)
Esmail A. Shakman

(University of Tripoli)