Comparative parasitology and host pathophysiology: integrated assessment of ectoparasite dynamics, seasonal prevalence, and physiological impacts in co-cultured European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata)

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◆ 논문 초록 (Abstract)

Ectoparasitic infestations pose significant threats to Mediterranean aquaculture, particularly for economically important species, European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Intensified aquaculture practices exacerbate these issues, impairing fish immunity, reducing growth rates, and incurring substantial economic losses. This study examined the prevalence, seasonal dynamics, organ tropism, and pathophysiological impacts of key ectoparasites in 1200 fingerlings (600 per species) collected seasonally (winter: December-February; summer: June-August) from private farms in Borg El Arab, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt, using parasitological examinations, complemented by molecular identification via PCR amplification, as well as hematological, immunological and biochemical analyses. Parasitological examinations identified key ectoparasites, including monogeneans (Dactylogyrus spp., Gyrodactylus spp.), the dinoflagellate Amyloodinium spp., and isopods (Cymothoidae). Overall prevalence was higher in sea bream (46.0 %) than sea bass (27.6 %; p < 0.001). Infections showed parasite-specific seasonal patterns, with summer peaks for isopods and Gyrodactylus spp., and winter peaks for Dactylogyrus spp. and A. ocellatum. Gills were the predominant infected organ (49.3 %; p < 0.001). Physiological assessments in infected vs. non-infected subgroups revealed anemia (reduced RBC, Hb, HCT; p < 0.001), immune shifts (decreased lymphocytes and neutrophils, increased basophils and eosinophils; p ≤ 0.006), heightened stress indicators (cortisol, lysozyme; p < 0.001), oxidative responses (increased glutathione, SOD, catalase; p ≤ 0.007), and biochemical changes (decreased glucose, total protein, AST, ALT, phosphorus, iron, chloride; increased ALP, Mg, Ca; p ≤ 0.008). Sea bream exhibited more pronounced responses, including greater RBC reductions (p = 0.003). Multivariate general linear modeling confirmed strong infection effects (partial η² > 0.90 for most parameters) and species-infection interactions in ion balance (e.g., Cl, Mg; p < 0.05). These results enhance understanding of species- and season-dependent ectoparasite dynamics in co-cultured fish, advocating for routine seasonal surveillance of gills and skin, using PCR-based molecular diagnostics to enable early intervention, and integrated control measures that minimize economic losses and improve health management in Mediterranean aquaculture.

◆ 원문 정보
저자: Abdel-Razek N, Khalil RH, El-Ramlawy AO, Essameldin HM, Fathi M
저널: Vet Parasitol
연도: 2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2026.110724

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