Parasitic Infections in Marine Fish Species Harvested from Brass, Bayelsa State

Parasitic infections in marine fish represent significant threats to fish health, yield, and the food safety of fish products reaching consumers, particularly in communities dependent on artisanal fisheries. This study investigated the prevalence, intensity, and species diversity of parasites in marine fish harvested from Brass, Bayelsa State, South South Nigeria. Fish specimens from five commercially important species, including Scomber japonicus, Pseudotolithus senegalensis, Cynoglossus senegalensis, Pomadasys jubelini, and Lutjanus agennes, were collected monthly from artisanal landing sites over four months. Detailed post-mortem parasitological examinations were performed. Parasites were isolated from the gills, skin, viscera, and muscle, identified using standard keys, and quantified. Prevalence, mean intensity, and abundance were calculated for each host-parasite combination. A total of 14 parasite species were identified, including trematodes, nematodes, acanthocephalans, copepods, and monogeneans. Overall infection prevalence was 78 percent across the pooled sample. Trematodes were the most diverse group. Pseudotolithus senegalensis had the highest species-level parasite richness. Infection intensity was positively correlated with fish body length. Significant differences in parasite diversity were observed between fish species. Zoonotic significance was noted for Anisakis larvae, which were found in the muscle tissue of two species. The study recommends parasite screening of commonly consumed fish species and consumer education on safe handling and thorough cooking practices to prevent zoonotic transmission. Keywords: fish parasites, marine fish, Brass, Bayelsa State, zoonotic infection.