Morphological and genetic identification of the gill monogenean parasite (Diclidophora merlangi) that infects Twobar Seabream Fish (Acanthopagrus bifasciatus) in the Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia
G. Alojayri, S. Al-Quraishy, E. Al-Shaebi, O. B. Mohammed, R. Abdel-Gaber
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Summary Ectoparasites, particularly monogeneans, negatively affect fish health and growth. This study identified monogenean parasites in the twobar seabream, Acanthopagrus bifasciatus (Sparidae), inhabited the Arabian Gulf (Saudi Arabia). Following that, forty A. bifasciatus fish samples were visually examined for monogeneans. Parasite species were collected from the gills and then analyzed morphometrically, morphologically, and molecularly using the partial regions of the large subunit of ribosomal RNA (28S rRNA) and mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) genes. Fish species were also identified using a DNA barcoding approach based on the COI gene. The monogenean species of Diclidophora merlangi (Diclidophoridae) were found in 45% of the fish species studied. The generic features of the Diclidophora genus distinguish this species. This species discriminated itself from congeners by having a muscular bulb with 17 grooved and recurved hooks, 218±10 (184–267) post-ovarian testes, and four pairs of pedunculated clamps of relative sizes. Partial 28S rRNA sequencing from monogeneans revealed that they grouped with members of the genus Diclidophora, forming a monophyletic group that supported the morphological descriptions. Molecular identification revealed that D. merlangi has a unique barcode made up of a COI sequence. The host identity was established as A. bifasciatus based on the COI gene sequences. Furthermore, a molecular phylogenetic study was performed to determine the phylogenetic affinity of parasite species and fish hosts. This study on Diclidophora species is considered the first record of this genus in the examined area.
期刊介绍:
Helminthologia (HELMIN), published continuously since 1959, is the only journal in Europe that encompasses the individual and collaborative efforts of scientists working on a different topics of human, veterinary and plant helminthology. The journal responsibility is to enrich the theoretical and practical knowledge in very specific areas and thus contribute to the advancements in human and veterinary medicine and agronomy. Taking the advantage of comprehensive and multidisciplinary approaches journal still maintains its original spirit and is principal source of fresh scientific information regarding helminths, endoparasites and plant parasites. Addressing the most up-to date topics journal gained rightful and exceptional place next to the other high-quality scientific journals publishing in its field.