Occurrence of zoonotic parasites in economically important fish species from the Northeastern region of Brazil.

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and analyze zoonotic parasites found in Scomberomorus cavalla and Trichiurus lepturus collected from the Mundaú-Manguaba Estuarine Lagoon Complex (CELMM), considering their commercial relevance and the associated risks to food safety and public health. A total of 34 fish were obtained from local fishermen, including 30 T. lepturus and four S. cavalla. The fish were necropsied and their internal organs were examined to identify parasites. Prevalence, abundance, and mean intensity of parasitic infections were calculated. In T. lepturus, the most prevalent (20%) nematode was Contracaecum sp., predominantly found in the coelomic cavity. In S. cavalla, the most frequently observed one (100% prevalence) was Hysterothylacium sp., with infections disseminated in the stomach, intestine, liver, and coelomic cavity. All identified parasites were documented for the first time in fish collected from this estuarine complex, CELMM, in Brazil, expanding their known geographical and ecological distribution. The presence of zoonotic parasites in commercially sold fish from CELMM poses a significant public health risk. Therefore, stringent sanitary inspection measures and public awareness initiatives are essential to mitigate contamination risks and ensure the quality of fish products intended for human consumption.