Cestódeo (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda) parasito de tucunaré (Cichla sp.) do Açude Joana em Pedro II, Piauí, Brasil

Abstract

The Cestoda class comprises helminths that have a complex life cycle and are parasites found in various species, including fish, which have a greater number and variety of parasites than any other vertebrate class. The aim of this study was to identify cestodes found in fish from Açude Joana, located in the municipality of Pedro II, Piauí, Brazil. The collections, carried out in September and October 2023, were conducted in collaboration with a local fisherman associated with the city's Fishermen's Association, who was responsible for obtaining the fish. The specimens were biometrically analyzed in the laboratory and the information collected was described on the necropsy form. After taxonomic identification, the fish specimens were euthanized by medullary sectioning. Subsequently, a superficial analysis of the fish's external morphology was carried out. During the sampling period, 18 specimens were collected, identified as: Cichla sp. (n = 10) the most abundant species, followed by Oreochromis niloticus (n = 5), Hoplias sp. (n = 3). A total of 216 parasites belonging to the Cestoda class were identified in the intestinal tract of the hosts, tucunarés (Cichla sp.). These results show the need for further studies into aspects of the biology and ecology of the cestodes identified, investigating their life cycle, factors that influence their prevalence and possible seasonal variations. In addition, it is important to implement surveillance and continuous monitoring measures at the site.