Histomorphological changes in the reproductive condition of parasitized marine planktonic copepods

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Abstract
Changes in the internal morphology of parasitized copepods sampled in the Gulf of Naples [Italy] from 1986 to 1988 were investigated using both light and transmission electron microscopy. The most common and devastating form of infection was due to the parasitic dinoflagellate Syndinium, which induced gross modifications in the internal and external morphology of the host population. The parasite reduced fecundity and longevity of infected individuals, which mainly included juvenile and female populations of the copepod Paracalanus parvus. Infection rates for this species were as high as 12% for juveniles and 13% for adult females for the period investigated. Infection by the parasitic dinoflagellate Blastodinium induced less negative effects on the reproductive biology of their hosts. This pathogen did not lead to sexual castration and oogonal development appeared normal. Other forms of infestation were rare and included infections due to protozoa, fungi and bacteria.

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