Histopathological alterations and distribution of Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis in intestines and their seasonal rate of infestation in three freshwater fishes of Kashmir

Abstract

In the present study water, fish and parasite samples were collected during different seasons from various sites and processed. Three fish species (Schizothorax niger, Schizothorax esocinus, Schizothorax curvifrons) were recovered from two water bodies of Kashmir valley. Acanthocephalan parasite Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis (27.47%) were recovered from all the three species of Schizothorax. The parasite showed higher prevalence during summer and least during winter. Overall the mean intensity of Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis was highest in Dal Lake whereas its abundance was higher in River Jhelum. Parasitic infections were prevalent more in male fishes compared to females. The presence of the parasites had reduced the condition coefficient of the infected fishes in both the water bodies. Histopathologically, the parasite induced various intensities of enteritis coupled with hyperplastic goblet cells with increased acid mucopolysaccharide concentrations.