Pathology caused by introduced Neoergasilus japonicus (Copepoda: Ergasilidae) to the skin of indigenous Tilapia sparrmanii in South Africa and scanning electron microscopy study of wound-inflicting structures

Neoergasilus japonicus, a fish ectoparasite indigenous to eastern and southern Asia, has been introduced to various regions, including Europe and North and South America, where it spreads at an alarming rate. The parasite is not host-specific. It was also collected from the Vaal-Orange and Limpopo river systems in South Africa. This report describes the morphology of the wound-inflecting structures in N. japonicus and relates their morphology to the pathological effect on Tilapia sparrmanii. Host tissue with parasites attached was imbedded in resin for histological sectioning and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Additional specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopy. Adult female parasites attach by inserting the hooked tips of the antennae into the epidermis. The maxillulae are minute but have sharp tips. The maxillae have sharp tips on the endopod and brush-like setae on the exopod. The mandibles are armed with sharp tips. These structures are used to remove the epidermis of the host and brush it into the buccal cavity. Host tissue in the intestine confirms that adult females consume host tissue leaving the dermis exposed to opportunistic diseases. The microscopic size of the parasite prevents casual observation, and its occurrence in Africa is, therefore, probably underreported.