Ergasilus sp.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Gill Maggot

Ergasilus species are parasitic copepods that primarily infest the gills of fish. They damage gill tissues by feeding on epithelial cells, leading to respiratory distress.

Distribution: Global, found in freshwater and marine environments

Detection Methods: Microscopic examination of gills

Hosts: Freshwater and marine fish, including perch and bass

Target tissue: External, skin & gills