Studies on the distribution and diversity of helminth infection in Xenentodon cancila (Hamilton, 1822) in Mizoram, Northeast India

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was to document the diversity of endoparasitic helminth in fresh water garfish, Xenentodon cancila and to assess, their zoonotic potential if any. Methodology: The collections of fishes were conducted in rivers of Mizoram and parasites were retrieved. Morphological identification was done by following various taxonomic keys. Results: A total of 40 specimens of garfish were collected from six different locations. Only two taxonomic groups of helminth parasites were recorded; Trematoda (Platyhelminthes)-including three species- one each representing the genera Prosorhynchoides, Phyllodistomum and Plagioporus; and Acanthocephala- represented by Neoechinorhynchus. No cestode or nematodes were recorded from this piscine host. Interpretation: The results revealed that prevalence, mean intensity and abundance were found to be highest in fishes collected from river Tuikum followed by Tuirial. No helminth infection was found in the fishes collected from Chhimtuipui and Tlawng Rivers. Further, no potential zoonotic helminths were recorded in the present studies. All the parasites reported in the present study constitute the first report from the state of Mizoram.