Heteropolaria sp.
Heteropolaria is a genus of sessile, colonial ciliates that often attach to the gills and body surface of fish. These organisms are typically opportunistic parasites and can cause damage to fish tissues when present in large numbers, especially under stressful or poor water quality conditions. Under the microscope, they appear as stalked ciliates forming rosette-like colonies.
Distribution: Widespread in freshwater environments
Hosts: Freshwater fish
Detection Methods: Microscopic exam – wet mount
Target tissue: Gills and skin
