Myxozoa

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Myxozoa

Myxozoa (pronunciation: mix-oh-zoh-uh) is a class of microscopic aquatic parasites, primarily infecting fish and occasionally other aquatic animals.

Etymology

The term "Myxozoa" is derived from the Greek words "myxa" meaning mucus and "zōon" meaning animal, referring to the gelatinous nature of the parasites.

Description

Myxozoans are characterized by their complex life cycles involving two hosts, typically an invertebrate, often an annelid worm, and a vertebrate, usually a fish. They are known for causing diseases in their hosts, such as whirling disease in trout and salmon.

Classification

Myxozoa was initially classified as a group of protozoa. However, recent molecular studies have shown that they are multicellular animals, and are now classified within the phylum Cnidaria, which also includes jellyfish and corals.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Myxozoa involves two stages: the actinosporean stage in the invertebrate host and the myxosporean stage in the vertebrate host. The actinosporean stage is characterized by the formation of spores that are released into the water and infect the fish host. In the fish, the parasites undergo the myxosporean stage, producing spores that are released into the water when the fish dies or through its feces, which are then ingested by the invertebrate host.

Diseases

Myxozoans are responsible for several diseases in fish, including whirling disease, proliferative kidney disease, and ceratomyxosis. These diseases can have significant impacts on wild and farmed fish populations, and are of concern in aquaculture and fisheries management.

Treatment and Control

Treatment of myxozoan infections in fish is challenging due to the complex life cycle of the parasites. Control measures typically involve managing the invertebrate host population and improving water quality to reduce the risk of infection.

Related Terms

External links

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