Nematode parasites of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) from the Rietvlei Dam, South Africa

Abstract

Catfish, Clarias gariepinus, from the Rietvlei Dam near Pretoria, South Africa were examined for nematode parasites. Two species, Procamallanus laeviconchus in the stomach and Contracaecum spp. larvae in the abdominal cavity, were found. The morphology of these species, based on light and scanning electron microscopy, and how they compare with previously described specimens are discussed. Infection rates were mild compared to previous surveys although Contracaecum spp. had a high prevalence of 86%.