Prevalence and Incidence of Helminth Parasites in Some Marine Fishes from the Coast of Karachi, Pakistan
Keywords:
Helminth Parasites, , Marine Fishes, , Seasonal Infection, , Organal Distribution, , Karachi CoastAbstract
Fish serve as a vital source of affordable protein globally and significantly contribute to economic activities through fisheries. This study investigated the prevalence and intensity of helminth parasites in four commercially important marine fish species—Lutjanus argentimaculatus, Johnius dussumieri, Plectorhynchus cinctus, and Pampus argenteus—collected along the Karachi coast. From January to December 2022, a total of 113 fish samples were obtained monthly using cast nets, hand nets, and fishing rods, with the assistance of local fishermen. Examination revealed that 84.07% of the fish were infected with helminth parasites. Monthly prevalence peaked in June (45.46%) and was lowest in January (3.33%). Among the species studied, Pampus argenteus exhibited the highest mean intensity of infection (2.15 parasites per infected fish), followed by Johnius dussumieri (1.89), Plectorhynchus cinctus (1.87), and Lutjanus argentimaculatus (1.7). Seasonal variation revealed a much greater infection rate in the summer than in the winter. The results draw attention to species-specific sensitivity to helminth infections, therefore stressing possible consequences for fish health as well as food safety and control of fisheries.
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