Lernaea (anchor worm)

ALSO KNOWN AS: Anchor parasite

Anchor worms are another species of copepod (like sea lice). They attach to the fish host with a distinct anchor-like structure that penetrates the fish’s skin, with the body of the anchor worm sticking out into the water – where it can release its eggs freely. Common in some reservoirs in Oregon.

Distribution: Global, in freshwater environments

Detection Methods: Gross pathology / gross clinical signs

Hosts: Freshwater fish, including goldfish, koi, and cyprinids

Target tissue: external surfaces; penetrates skin