Neoechinorhynchus sp.

The genus Neoechinorhynchus comprises at least 100 species of acanthocephalans, all of which are parasitic to fish. These parasites have a complex life cycle, spending part of their development in fish and the other in an invertebrate host, typically a crustacean. Infections can lead to intestinal damage and reduced nutrient absorption in fish.

Distribution: Worldwide in coastal waters

Hosts: Various marine fish species

Detection Methods:

• Gross pathology / gross clinical signs

• Microscopic exam – wet mount

• Microscopic exam – histology

Target Tissue: Intestine