New Insights on the Taxonomy of Parasites in Aquatic Animals

Dear Colleagues,

Parasites are ubiquitous in both farmed and wild aquatic animals. While in aquaculture, many aspects of the biology and ecology of the parasite species involved are well known, our knowledge of parasitic infections in the wild is limited. This is particularly true for less studied taxa that affect the productivity and marketability of fish stocks and the conservation of invertebrate and vertebrate host species inhabiting marine and freshwater environments.

The integration of molecular biology techniques with traditional morphometric approaches has led researchers to question several aspects in taxonomic studies, with particular reference to the species showing similar morphological traits, allowing to avoid misidentifications and to elucidate the lifecycle of several taxa, particularly those with still unknown developmental stages.

Improved knowledge in aquatic parasitology coupled with the application of ecological modeling can help to address current questions regarding the role of parasitic agents in the ecosystems and will assist policymakers in correct management of the aquatic environment.

Dr. Monica Caffara
Dr. Perla Tedesco
Guest Editors

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