Histopathological studies of big-eyed kilka (Clupeonella grimmi) due to infection with Corynosoma strumosum (Acanthocephala)

Objective: Previous studies showed that Caspian kilkas can be heavily infected with helminth parasite, Corynosoma strumosum. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to study the histopathological impacts of this parasite on some important internal organs of big-eyed kilka, Clupeonella grimmi, including liver, ovary and testis. Method & Materials: Fish were collected from two fishing sites, including Babolsar and Bandar Anzali, in south coast of Caspian Sea. Internal organs, including liver, ovary and testis, were fixed appropriately and histological sections were prepared and examined by light microscopy. Results & Conclusion: There were several granulomata in different sizes in the liver, indicating occurrence of a chronic inflammation. Ovaries included immature first and second stage ova and granulomata in various sizes due to presence of parasites in stroma. In spite of existence of a number of granulomata in testis tissue, different stages of spermatogony were observed. Although generation of granulomata in infected tissues is leading to surrounding and inactivating the parasites, the significantly large number of granulomata may disturb liver and gonads normal functions. It seems that a long term infection may cause sterilisation in fish.

کلیدواژه ها:

histopathology ، Clupeonella grimmi ، Corynosoma strumosum ، Caspian Sea ، Iran