Parasites of Mugilidae spp reared under semi-intensive and intensive conditions in Greece

Abstract

Parasites are described from five Mugilidae species (Chelon labrosus, Liza aurata, L. raulada, L. saliens and Mugil cephalus) reared in a lagoon and of M. cephalus reared under intensive conditions (open ponds and recirculating freshwater systems) in Greece. Mugilids reared in lagoons were infected with a variety of parasites but these did not cause problems and mortality. Some of these species (Bouedenia monticelli, Lingophorus spp., Dicrogaster contractus, Haploporus benedeni, Lecithaster confusus, Lecithobotrys putrescen, Saccocoelium obesum, S. tensum) are reported for the first time in the region as well as in the country. Ergenstrema mugilis is reported for the second time in C. labrosus. Mugil cephalus was tolerant, in general, to diseases under intensive rearing and the main problem observed was recurrent but intensive infections by Chilodonclla sp. and Microcotyle mugilis reported for the first time in this host. Mortality of the fish in freshwater reached 5% during summer months and was higher (20%) during long-term salt treatment. Microcotyle mugilis has not been reported before in this host and the mortality was attributed mainly to this parasite.