Protist (Ciliates) and Related Diseases

Abstract

Ciliates are one of the most common protistan parasites in cephalopods. In this chapter, we have undertaken to describe the biology and diversity of parasitic ciliates in European cephalopods and give diagnosis elements to identify the known species. We briefly summarize available data on the ciliates parasitizing the gills and skin of European cephalodops (Ancistrocomidae) and the endoparasitic forms observed in the digestive tract and renal appendages (Opalinopsidae). Ancistrocomidae ectoparasites have been observed in Octopus vulgaris. Opalinosidae family harbours two parasitic genera: Opalinopsis and Chromidina. Species diversity of these two genera seems to be underestimated in Europe.