Description and population dynamics of Dactylogyrus legionensis n.sp. from Barbus barbus bocagei Steind.

Abstract

Dactylogyrus legionensis n. sp., a monogenean parasite from the gills of Barbus barbus bocagei from the Esla river (León, NW Spain), is described and its population dynamics discussed. It differs from the closely related species, D. balistae, in the presence of vaginal armour and in the morphology of the copulatory organ. D. legionensis was found on 3O.4O% of barbel, with a mean intensity of 13.71 and maximum infection levels in autumn-winter. The prevalence and intensity of infection rose significantly with the age and length of the barbel, and were higher in females than in males. D. legionensis showed preference for the second and first gill arches, sector III and the internal zone of each hemibranch.