Echinorhynchus gadi

ALSO KNOWN AS: Codworm

Echinorhynchus gadi is a parasitic acanthocephalan found in marine fish, primarily the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). The parasite attaches to the intestinal wall, potentially causing damage, inflammation, and nutrient absorption issues. Heavy infections can lead to reduced growth and overall health deterioration in fish.

Distribution: North Atlantic and Baltic Sea

Hosts: Marine fish (definitive host), shrimp (intermediate host)

Detection Methods:

• Gross pathology / gross clinical signs

• Microscopic exam – wet mount

• Microscopic exam – histologyTarget Tissue: Gut