We present descriptions of two newly discovered species of Myxobolus (Myxobolidae) that infect Mugil curema: Myxobolus mundauensis n. sp. found in gills and Myxobolus patriciae n. sp. found in intestines. These descriptions are based on the morphology of myxospores, histological analysis, and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal DNA (ssrDNA). The myxospores of both species differ in the width and length of their spore bodies, and their ssrDNA sequences showed a 10.6% difference. These findings support the identification of these parasites as distinct and previously unknown species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a subclade consisting of species that parasitize Mugiliformes, with Myxobolus mundauensis n. sp. being closely related to Myxobolus maceioensis, and Myxobolus patriciae n. sp. being closely related to Myxobolus curemae. Our analysis aligns with previous research suggesting a strong correlation between host orders and phylogenetic patterns within the Myxobolidae family.
1 January 2026 in Revista Brasileira de Parasitologia Veterinária
This study aimed to identify and analyze zoonotic parasites found in Scomberomorus cavalla and Trichiurus lepturus collected from the Mundaú-Manguaba Estuarine Lagoon Complex (CELMM), considering their commercial relevance and the associated risks to food safety and public health. A total of 34 fish were obtained from local fishermen, including 30 T. lepturus and four S. cavalla. The fish were necropsied and their internal organs were examined to identify parasites. Prevalence, abundance, and mean intensity of parasitic infections were calculated. In T. lepturus, the most prevalent (20%) nematode was Contracaecum sp., predominantly found in the coelomic cavity. In S. cavalla, the most frequently observed one (100% prevalence) was Hysterothylacium sp., with infections disseminated in the stomach, intestine, liver, and coelomic cavity. All identified parasites were documented for the first time in fish collected from this estuarine complex, CELMM, in Brazil, expanding their known geographical and ecological distribution. The presence of zoonotic parasites in commercially sold fish from CELMM poses a significant public health risk. Therefore, stringent sanitary inspection measures and public awareness initiatives are essential to mitigate contamination risks and ensure the quality of fish products intended for human consumption.