Strigeid trematodes of the genus Apatemon Szidat, 1928 are intestinal parasites of fish-eating birds, utilizing various fish species as second intermediate hosts. In this study, we report morphometrical and molecular characterization of... more
Strigeid trematodes of the genus Apatemon Szidat, 1928 are intestinal parasites of fish-eating birds, utilizing various fish species as second intermediate hosts. In this study, we report morphometrical and molecular characterization of Apatemon sp. metacercariae parasitizing killifish Nothobranchius furzeri (Cyprinodontiformes: Nothobranchiidae) in south-east Mozambique. Metacercariae obtained from the cerebral cavity of killifish and two adult individuals isolated from experimentally infected ducklings were used for detailed morphological and molecular description, both resulting in generic affiliation to Apatemon. This is the first molecularly confirmed record of this trematode genus in Africa. Considering the morphological variability and wide host range of individual Apatemon species, the combination of both morphological and molecular analyses is indispensable for valid identification of this parasite. The results of our molecular analysis together with phylogenetic reconstruction indicated the presence of a new African lineage, reflecting potentially high diversity within the genus Apatemon comparable with other digenean genera.
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The communities of metazoan parasites of teh four most common 0+ juvenile cyprinid fish, Rutilus rutilus, Scardinius erythrophthalmus, Rhodeus sericeus and Carassius auratus gibelio, in a flooded oxbow (River Dyje, Danube basin, Czech... more
The communities of metazoan parasites of teh four most common 0+ juvenile cyprinid fish, Rutilus rutilus, Scardinius erythrophthalmus, Rhodeus sericeus and Carassius auratus gibelio, in a flooded oxbow (River Dyje, Danube basin, Czech Republic) were analysed from June to November 1999. The majority of parasite species belonged to the Monogenea. The proportiion of monogenean and other parasites decreased with the fishh growth, because of a rapid increase of digeneans. Despite the high frequency of occurrence, the intensity of invasion was relatively low and there appeared to be no impact on the condition of small size 0+ juvenile fish.
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V soucasne době je na uzemi Ceske a Slovenske republiky doložen výskyt 165 druhů monogenei. Tento stav převysuje o 47 druhů status publikovaný v roce 1970 Ergensem a Lomem v monografii Původci parazitarnich onemocneni ryb. Výrazný narůst... more
V soucasne době je na uzemi Ceske a Slovenske republiky doložen výskyt 165 druhů monogenei. Tento stav převysuje o 47 druhů status publikovaný v roce 1970 Ergensem a Lomem v monografii Původci parazitarnich onemocneni ryb. Výrazný narůst poctu druhů monogenei ma tyto tři přiciny: (1) dvacet druhů bylo po roce 1970 popsano jako nove pro vědu; (2) dalsich 14 druhů představuje nove nalezy na nasem uzemi a konecně 11 druhů bylo do nasich vod introdukovano.
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... Reykjavík, Iceland : The Institute of Experimental Pathology, University of Iceland, Keldur, 2008. pp. 41 -42. 6.9.2008, Radisson SAS Hotel Saga in Reykjavík, Iceland. Original language: English. Field: Ecology. Type: Article in... more
... Reykjavík, Iceland : The Institute of Experimental Pathology, University of Iceland, Keldur, 2008. pp. 41 -42. 6.9.2008, Radisson SAS Hotel Saga in Reykjavík, Iceland. Original language: English. Field: Ecology. Type: Article in Proceedings. Keywords: parasitism; water polution; ...
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The response of parasite communities to aquatic contamination has been shown to vary with both type of pollutant and parasite lifestyle. In this semi-experimental study, we examined uptake of pharmaceutical compounds in common carp... more
The response of parasite communities to aquatic contamination has been shown to vary with both type of pollutant and parasite lifestyle. In this semi-experimental study, we examined uptake of pharmaceutical compounds in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) restocked from a control pond to a treatment pond fed with organic pollution from a sewage treatment plant and assessed changes in parasite community composition and fish biometric parameters. The parasite community of restocked fish changed over the six-month exposure period, and the composition of pharmaceutical compounds in the liver and brain was almost the same as that in fish living in the treatment pond their whole life. While fish size and weight were significantly higher in both treatment groups compared to the control, condition indices, including condition factor, hepatosomatic index, and splenosomatic index, were significantly higher in control fish. Parasite diversity and species richness decreased at the polluted site, a...
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In recent years, pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus (Actinopterygii: Centrarchidae) have spread intensively to many parts of Europe, including Ukraine. In this study, we (1) assess intra-population genetic variability in five widely-spaced... more
In recent years, pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus (Actinopterygii: Centrarchidae) have spread intensively to many parts of Europe, including Ukraine. In this study, we (1) assess intra-population genetic variability in five widely-spaced Ukrainian pumpkinseed populations and compare their population genetic structure with other European populations and (2) provide a comprehensive survey of pumpkinseed parasites across the region. Discriminant analysis of principal components and FST analyses based on microsatellites indicated that all five populations formed discrete clusters. Within Europe, Ukrainian populations were most closely associated with populations from the River Danube, suggesting that the Danube is the main source of all Ukrainian pumpkinseed populations. The parasite fauna comprised 15 taxa, most of which (92%) were native to North America (monogenea Onchocleidus similis and O. dispar; myxozoan Myxobolus dechtiari). Parasites acquired in the species' new range occurred ...
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Monogenean parasites of four goby species (Proterorhinus marmoratus, Neogobius fluviatilis, N. kessleri and N. melanostomus) were studied in Bulgarian and Slovak part of the Danube River (Europe), presenting both native and non-native... more
Monogenean parasites of four goby species (Proterorhinus marmoratus, Neogobius fluviatilis, N. kessleri and N. melanostomus) were studied in Bulgarian and Slovak part of the Danube River (Europe), presenting both native and non-native area of Neogobius fishes distribution. Four Gyrodactylus species were identified from N. kessleri and N. melanostomus. The most dominant species parasitizing N. kessleri was Gyrodactylus proterorhini that was also only the species recorded from P. marmoratus. No significant differences in morphology were found in G. proterorhini from N. kessleri and P. marmoratus. Partial ITS sequences were obtained for G. proterorhini from N. kessleri and P. marmoratus. Sequence comparison revealed differences of 1.4% between parasite specimens collected from different host species. This result might suggest finding of a new cryptic species of Gyrodactylus specific for N. kessleri or might describe great population variability of G. proterorhini from non-generic host ...
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In our experiment, four sub-populations of parasite-free juvenile fish (European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus) tested for susceptibility to infection of sympatric and allopatric parasites: fish originating from Kyjovka River (Danube basin),... more
In our experiment, four sub-populations of parasite-free juvenile fish (European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus) tested for susceptibility to infection of sympatric and allopatric parasites: fish originating from Kyjovka River (Danube basin), fish originating from Elbe River (Elbe basin), 2 hybrid subpopulations. Sub-populations of juvenile fish were put separately into the experimental cages installed in a side channel of the Kyjovka River and were exposed to their sympatric and allopatric parasites. Trend of the highest parasite abundance was found in allopatric host sub-population which might be explained by a low adaptation to specific parasite species. Parasite infection rate in hybrid sub-populations was found to be comparable or lower than in pure sympatric host sub-population. Also the lowest mortality was recorded in one of the hybrid sub-populations, suggesting better characteristics in survival and immune defence of these fish.
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We investigated community of metazoan parasites and condition status of round goby in three stretches of the River Danube - in Bulgaria (native population of round goby), Slovakia and Austria (introduced populations) - during 2005 and... more
We investigated community of metazoan parasites and condition status of round goby in three stretches of the River Danube - in Bulgaria (native population of round goby), Slovakia and Austria (introduced populations) - during 2005 and 2006. Introduction of parasite species non-native for the Slovak and Austrian sections of the Danube River together with round goby was not observed. Instead, introduced round goby has been infected with several new parasite species that are not known in its native population. Parasite abundance did not significantly differ between native and itintroduced goby populations. Comparison of condition indices revealed better condition status of round goby in the areas of its introduction, but no relationship between condition indices values and parasite abundance was observed. Therefore, parasitism is not considered to be a significant factor affecting better condition status and expansion of round goby in the middle Danube River.
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The metazoan parasite fauna of bitterling was studied in rivers and ponds in South Moravia, Czech Republic from 1997-2001.
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Biological diversity of monogeneans parasitising fishes (57 species) and frogs (3 species)living on the territory of the Czech and Slovak Republics was investigated. Altogether 165 monogenean species belonging to 16 genera and 7 families... more
Biological diversity of monogeneans parasitising fishes (57 species) and frogs (3 species)living on the territory of the Czech and Slovak Republics was investigated. Altogether 165 monogenean species belonging to 16 genera and 7 families have been reported.
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Overwintering of 0+ fish represents a critical period in fish life history with increased mortality rate. Parasite infection might be an additional factor influencing the survival success. 0+ juvenile European bitterling were studied... more
Overwintering of 0+ fish represents a critical period in fish life history with increased mortality rate. Parasite infection might be an additional factor influencing the survival success. 0+ juvenile European bitterling were studied before and during winter with respect to body condition and parasite infection. Before winter, we observed no difference in parasite infection and condition factor between the fish groups. The total parasite abundance was higher in early hatched fish during winter months as a result of higher monegenean abundance. Clear trend of decreasing metacercarial infection during winter was observed only in late hatched fish, indicating mortality of heavily parasitized fish. Our results suggest that both fish cohorts were at similar state before the winter but during overwintering, early hatched fish kept energy resources better and were not significantly influenced by parasite infection. Late hatched fish probably faced increased energy deficit and mortality pos...
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BACKGROUND: Parasites that are transmitted from prey to predator are often associated with altered prey behaviour. Apatemon sp., trematode wit h complex life cycle, requires the ingestion of the second intermediate host (fish) by the... more
BACKGROUND: Parasites that are transmitted from prey to predator are often associated with altered prey behaviour. Apatemon sp., trematode wit h complex life cycle, requires the ingestion of the second intermediate host (fish) by the definitive host (piscivorous birds) to complete its life cycle. In killifish used in this study, metacercariae are located atypically in cerebral cavity. This site o f infection should allow a parasite to manipulate its host with little effort. METHODS: Two series of experimental observation were performed to compare behaviour of naturally Apatemon - infected and control killifish Nothobranchius furzeri from Mosambique:1 ) location of the fish in the aquarium without interruption and 2) behavioural responses to simulated avian predation. RESULTS: In both series of observation, Apatemon - infected killifish frequently remained in the upper third of the aquarium and were ofte n in contact with the water surface. On the contrary control fish spent most of ...
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V soucasne době je na uzemi Ceske a Slovenske republiky doložen výskyt 165 druhů monogenei. Tento stav převysuje o 47 druhů status publikovaný v roce 1970 Ergensem a Lomem v monografii Původci parazitarnich onemocneni ryb. Výrazný narůst... more
V soucasne době je na uzemi Ceske a Slovenske republiky doložen výskyt 165 druhů monogenei. Tento stav převysuje o 47 druhů status publikovaný v roce 1970 Ergensem a Lomem v monografii Původci parazitarnich onemocneni ryb. Výrazný narůst poctu druhů monogenei ma tyto tři přiciny: (1) dvacet druhů bylo po roce 1970 popsano jako nove pro vědu; (2) dalsich 14 druhů představuje nove nalezy na nasem uzemi a konecně 11 druhů bylo do nasich vod introdukovano.
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My work on the ECIP project has covered the two initial years of my PhD thesis. I have been involved in several themes, including parasite manipulation of the fish host, effects of parasites on fish physiology, behaviour and social... more
My work on the ECIP project has covered the two initial years of my PhD thesis. I have been involved in several themes, including parasite manipulation of the fish host, effects of parasites on fish physiology, behaviour and social interactions and fieldwork focused on parasitological examination of African annual fish. Parasites display remarkable adaptations that increase the probability of successful transmission, including manipulation of host morphology and behaviour. The parasitic trematode Apatemon sp. has a complex life cycle involving Nothobranchius fishes as an intermediate host for its larvae (metacercariae). In a series of experimental observations, we examined the behaviour of a Mozambique killifish Nothobranchius furzeri infected with the Apatemon trematode. Apatemon-parasitised fish differed strikingly in their habitat use (dwelling just below the water’s surface) and response to the threat of capture by an artificial avian predator (prolonged stay in upper water laye...
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Od roku 1997 byly do useku slovenskeho Dunaje a jeho přitoků introdukovany ryby rodu Neogobius pochazejici z oblasti Cerneho moře a dolnich useků přilehlých řek. V soucasne době představuje Neogobius kessleri dominantni druh ryby na... more
Od roku 1997 byly do useku slovenskeho Dunaje a jeho přitoků introdukovany ryby rodu Neogobius pochazejici z oblasti Cerneho moře a dolnich useků přilehlých řek. V soucasne době představuje Neogobius kessleri dominantni druh ryby na několika lokalitach slovenske casti Dunaje. V nasi studii byla v obdobi 2002–2005 sledovana spolecenstva parazitů N. kessleri z pěti lokalit oblasti středniho Dunaje: stare a nove koryto Dunaje, ramenný system Priehradky a Bodiky a usti řeky Vah. Ve vysetřenem vzorku byly parazitovany vsechny ryby celkem 33 druhy vicebuněcných parazitů, dominovaly glochidie Anodonta anatina (celkova prevalence 82,8 %) a vrtejsi Pomphorhynchus laevis (celkova prevalence 82, 4 %). Větsina zjistěných parazitů patři mezi druhy s nizkou hostitelskou specifitou a vyskytuje se u mnoha druhů ryb původnich ve sledovane oblasti. N. kessleri tak předevsim přejimal běžne parazity vyskytujici se v dane oblasti, a to ve vysokých poctech s maximalni intenzitou infekce 1036 parazitů na ...
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While the potential effects of pathogens spread from farmed fish to wild populations have frequently been studied, evidence for the transmission of parasites from wild to farmed fish is scarce. In the present study, we evaluated natural... more
While the potential effects of pathogens spread from farmed fish to wild populations have frequently been studied, evidence for the transmission of parasites from wild to farmed fish is scarce. In the present study, we evaluated natural bacterial and parasitic infections in brown trout (Salmo trutta m. fario) collected from the Černá Opava river (Czech Republic) as a potential source of infections for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) reared in a flow-through farm system fed by the same river. The prevalence of bacterial and protozoan infections in farmed fish was comparable, or higher, than for riverine fish. Despite this, none of the infected farmed fish showed any signs of severe diseases. Substantial differences in metazoan parasite infections were observed between wild and farmed fish regarding monogeneans, adult trematodes, nematodes, the myxozoan Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae found in riverine fish only, and larval eye-fluke trematodes sporadically found in farmed fish. The...
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Metazoan parasite communities ofLepomis gibbosus(Centrarchidae), one of the most successfully introduced fish species in Europe, were studied at two isolated ponds (Knielingen, Tropfen) along the Upper Rhine in Germany. Nine parasite taxa... more
Metazoan parasite communities ofLepomis gibbosus(Centrarchidae), one of the most successfully introduced fish species in Europe, were studied at two isolated ponds (Knielingen, Tropfen) along the Upper Rhine in Germany. Nine parasite taxa were observed, including North American species co-introduced to Europe (ancyrocephalid monogeneans, diplostomid trematodes), circumpolar species infectingL. gibbosusin both their native and non-native ranges (bothriocephalid cestodes) and locally acquired parasitic nematodes. Both parasite communities consisted predominantly of North American species. Acquisition of local parasites was not observed at Tropfen, where the fish community comprised just two species, withL. gibbosusdominant. Low prevalence and abundance of acquired parasites was found at Knielingen, which supported a diverse fish community. At Tropfen, a high abundance of the North American parasitePosthodiplostomum centrarchiprobably contributed to the lower condition index, hepatomeg...
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Summary Examination of western tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) from the River Dyje (Czech Republic, Danube basin) for metazoan parasites revealed the presence of metacercariae of Cyathocotyle prussica Mühling, 1896 (Digenea:... more
Summary Examination of western tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) from the River Dyje (Czech Republic, Danube basin) for metazoan parasites revealed the presence of metacercariae of Cyathocotyle prussica Mühling, 1896 (Digenea: Cyathocotylidae) in both muscle tissue and the peritoneal cavity. This is the first time that tubenose gobies have been reported as an intermediate host for C. prussica, and the first time that C. prussica metacercariae have been registered parasitising fish hosts in the Czech Republic. Here, we describe the morphology of metacercariae and five-day preadults, cultivated in vitro, and discuss the importance of recently established, non-native species as suitable hosts for this parasite.
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ABSTRACT Fourteen polymorphic microsatellites were isolated from Neogobius kessleri, a benthic fish of Ponto-Caspian origin which has been recently introduced into the Middle and Upper Danube River. Number of alleles and heterozygosity... more
ABSTRACT Fourteen polymorphic microsatellites were isolated from Neogobius kessleri, a benthic fish of Ponto-Caspian origin which has been recently introduced into the Middle and Upper Danube River. Number of alleles and heterozygosity per locus in a sample of 32 fish individuals ranged from two to four and from 0.13 to 0.75, respectively. These primers will be useful in determining the population structure of N. kessleri. In addition, successful cross-amplification was obtained for four related species, N. melanostomus, N. fluviatilis, N. gymnotrachelus and Proterorhinus marmoratus. These microsatellite loci may be useful for the evaluation of the origin of non-native goby populations.
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The ichthyofauna of Subsaharan Africa is under heavy threat and conservation strategies and research for both fish a fish parasite biodiversity are needed (Moritz and Linsenmair, 2005). All together 441 freshwater fish species are known... more
The ichthyofauna of Subsaharan Africa is under heavy threat and conservation strategies and research for both fish a fish parasite biodiversity are needed (Moritz and Linsenmair, 2005). All together 441 freshwater fish species are known from West Africa; 322 in the coastal rivers region and 194 in the central revers region. In the current study, metazoan parasite fauna of freshwater fish originating from 20 localities from National Park Niokolo Koba, Senegal, West Africa (larger central river system) were observed by on site surveys carried out during four field expeditions held between 2004 – 2007. Altogether 471 specimens of freshwater fish belonging to 55 species, 38 genera, 20 families and 9 orders have been investigated for metazoan parasites. According to Khalil and Polling (1997) there is more than 200 species of monogenean parasites belonging to 26 genera have been recorded from West Africa. Till now, 3872 specimens of monogenean parasites have been found and material for description of more then 20 new parasite species were obtained.
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In this study, the effects of the eye fluke Diplostomum pseudospathaceum (Trematoda) infection on over-winter survival of young-of-the-year (YOY) European bitterling Rhodeus amarus (Cyprinidae) were examined between September 2010 and... more
In this study, the effects of the eye fluke Diplostomum pseudospathaceum (Trematoda) infection on over-winter survival of young-of-the-year (YOY) European bitterling Rhodeus amarus (Cyprinidae) were examined between September 2010 and April 2011. The fish were reared in semi-natural conditions to ensure that results were not confounded by other parasite infections. The cumulative mortality of R. amarus from November until April was significantly higher in D. pseudospathaceum-infected fish (57·3%) compared to controls (42·1%). Infection of the parental generation did not have any effect on the mortality of juveniles. The results indicate that D. pseudospathaceum infection increases over-winter mortality of YOY R. amarus. The possible mechanisms causing mortality are discussed.
Research Interests: Zoology, Biology, Ecology, Fish Biology, Fish Diseases, and 7 moreMedicine, Trematoda, Animals, Fisheries Sciences, Juvenile, Seasons, and Cyprinidae
Relationship between independent contrast of parasite abundance and spleen weight in females (both variables were controlled for fish weight using residuals from linear regression) (b). Relationship between parasite abundance and gonad... more
Relationship between independent contrast of parasite abundance and spleen weight in females (both variables were controlled for fish weight using residuals from linear regression) (b). Relationship between parasite abundance and gonad weight for females (both variables were controlled for fish weight using residuals from linear regression) (c). All relationships are based on data obtained from the field study on females of 17 fish species (see Methods).<b>Copyright information:</b>Taken from "Parasitism, life history traits and immune defence in cyprinid fish from Central Europe"http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2148/8/29BMC Evolutionary Biology 2008;8():29-29.Published online 28 Jan 2008PMCID:PMC2270801.
Research Interests: Parasitology, Body, Parasite, Female, Independent, and 6 moreAbundance, Relationship, Weight, Contrasts, Between, and Calculated
The loss of flood plain through river channelization can have adverse affects on riverine fish fauna through a reduction in the abundance and diversity of species. Most of the lowland floodplain rivers in Central Europe have been... more
The loss of flood plain through river channelization can have adverse affects on riverine fish fauna through a reduction in the abundance and diversity of species. Most of the lowland floodplain rivers in Central Europe have been channelized and regulated. The area along the lower River Dyje (Danube basin) is an exception where a fragment of the flood plain remains. The southern part of this area is under an experimental managed flooding regime to support fish reproduction. The effectiveness of managed flooding was investigated by comparing adult and 0+ juvenile fish assemblages in two types of borrow pits (lakes created after excavation of material for dike construction) during four years. All man-made borrow pits had uniform habitats without shelters and with limited spawning and nursery areas. The habitat conditions in three borrow pits was improved by managed flooding during spring and summer of differing extension and duration. Three control sites were not flooded. The species ...
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During few recent years, the expansion of gobiid fish in waters of Slovak Danube River was registered. In present, Neogobius kessleri represents a dominant fish species in several localities of the Danube River basin in Slovak Republic.... more
During few recent years, the expansion of gobiid fish in waters of Slovak Danube River was registered. In present, Neogobius kessleri represents a dominant fish species in several localities of the Danube River basin in Slovak Republic. Other Neogobius fishes were also introduced in this region and their impacton natural fish assemblagesis increased due to their high population densities. Escapement from the effects of natural predators and parasites is a frequent explanation given for the success of invasive species. In this preliminary study, metazoan parasites of three Neogobius species were examined (N. kessleri, N. melanostomus, N. fluviatilis). Fish were collected from the Danube River (old and new channel), adjacent backwaters (N.k., resp. N.m.) and from the confluence of the Hron and Danube Rivers (N.f.) during 2002 and 2003. With the exception of two juvenile N. fluviatilis, all fish were parasitized. Glochidia of Anodonta anatina reached a maximum abundance (869 glochidia ...
Research Interests: Biology and Round Goby
Metazoan parasites of N. kessleri and N. melanostomus were observed in four stretches of the River Danube: Bulgarian (native), Croatian, Slovak and Austrian (non-native area of distribution). Parasite species richness was higher in N.... more
Metazoan parasites of N. kessleri and N. melanostomus were observed in four stretches of the River Danube: Bulgarian (native), Croatian, Slovak and Austrian (non-native area of distribution). Parasite species richness was higher in N. kessleri – 23 species compare to 17 species in N. melanostomus. Structure of parasite community did not differ among sampling sites in both fish hosts. Pomphorhynchus laevis (Acanthocephala) and glochidia of Anodonta anatina were the dominant parasite species with highest abundances and prevalences in all assemblages. Total parasite abundance was higher in N. kessleri, but did not significantly differ among localities. In N. melanostomus, parasite abundance was the lowest in Slovak population, but Bulgarian and Austrian populations did not differ. All parasite species found in non-native areas are common parasites occurring in Danubean fishes. No Neogobius specific parasites (with the exception of Gyrodactylus spp.) were found. The importance of introd...
Research Interests: Biology and Round Goby
Specimens of N. kessleri were collected from six localities in the Slovakian part of Danube River (former and current main channel), from two adjacent backwaters, and from lower Hron and Vah Rivers during 2002 to 2004. All fish were... more
Specimens of N. kessleri were collected from six localities in the Slovakian part of Danube River (former and current main channel), from two adjacent backwaters, and from lower Hron and Vah Rivers during 2002 to 2004. All fish were parasitized. Thirty three species of metazoan parasites were recovered from bighead goby, when most of the parasites were common species in the central Danube River region. In the native area of bighead goby distribution, lower Danube River, 23 parasite species have been reported. Seven widely distributed parasite species (B. polymorphus, D. spathaceum, T. clavata, P. laevis, C. lacustris, E. sieboldi and glochidia of Unionidae) have occurred in both native and non-native area. In total, 88 % of all parasites found composed by glochidia of Unionidae and acanthocephalan. Glochidia of A. anatina and P. laevis were the dominant parasite species. Larval and immature parasites dominated in all fish examined, where bighead goby served as the intermediate or pa...
Research Interests: Biology and Round Goby
Literarni zaznamy z celeho kontinentu ukazuji, že do Evropy byly se svým hostitelem (slunecnici pestrou) zavleceny pouze 4 druhy žabernich parazitů: Onchocleidus similis, O. dispar, Actinocleidus recurvatus a A. oculatus. Pro tuto studii... more
Literarni zaznamy z celeho kontinentu ukazuji, že do Evropy byly se svým hostitelem (slunecnici pestrou) zavleceny pouze 4 druhy žabernich parazitů: Onchocleidus similis, O. dispar, Actinocleidus recurvatus a A. oculatus. Pro tuto studii byly vysetřeny ryby ze Slovenska, Ceske republiky, Chorvatska, Bulharska a Francie. Byl potvrzen výskyt 9 druhů monogeni. Ryby z lokality Labe nebyly parazitovany žadnými žabernimi parazity. Výsledky ukazaly na absenci A. oculatus v povodi Dunaje, ve Francii se tento druh vyskytoval běžně. Lze předpokladat, že tento parazit je rozsiřen jen v umoři Středozemniho moře, kde byl A. oculatus historicky zaznamenan. Ve francouzske populaci byl zjistěn ojedinělý výskyt druhu Cleidodiscus robustus, O. acer a G. macrochiri. Tyto druhy parazitujici okounkovite ryby nebyl na Evropskem kontinentě doposud zaznamenan. Jeho výskyt tedy může být výsledkem recentni introdukce.
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Over the last decade, four species of goby fishes have invaded the Middle Danube area. Introduced populations of bighhead goby Neogobius kessleri appeared in Middle Danube in the early 1990s and have spread rapidly. Escapement from the... more
Over the last decade, four species of goby fishes have invaded the Middle Danube area. Introduced populations of bighhead goby Neogobius kessleri appeared in Middle Danube in the early 1990s and have spread rapidly. Escapement from the effects of natural predators and parasites is a frequent explanation given for the success of invasive species. Therefore, communities of metazoan parasites of 5 bighead goby populations were studied, representing native (two Bulgarian), longstanding non-native (Croatian) and very recent (Austrian and Slovak section of the Danube River, Europe) areas of bighead goby distribution. Component community richness ranged from 11 (Croatian) to 15 (Austrian), but did not differ among localities. Half of all parasite species was found in both native and non-native area; more exclusive species occurred in introduced fish populations. The total species richness was higher in non-native populations, which supported mostly wide-ranged parasite species. Our results...
Research Interests: Biology and Round Goby
Původni a introdukovane populace hlavace cernousteho (Neogobius melanostomus), invazniho druhu ryby středniho a horniho toku Dunaje, byly porovnavany z hlediska druhoveho složeni spolecenstev jeho parazitů, abundance parazitů a kondice... more
Původni a introdukovane populace hlavace cernousteho (Neogobius melanostomus), invazniho druhu ryby středniho a horniho toku Dunaje, byly porovnavany z hlediska druhoveho složeni spolecenstev jeho parazitů, abundance parazitů a kondice ryb. Výzkum byl proveden v letech 2005 a 2006 na Dunaji v Bulharsku (oblast původniho rozsiřeni hlavace), na Slovensku a v Rakousku (oblasti introdukce hlavace). Odloveno a parazitologicky vysetřeno bylo celkem 393 jedinců N. melanostomus. Zaznamenano bylo celkem 31 druhů mnohobuněcných cizopasniků ze 7 systematických skupin, z toho 12 druhů cizopasniků bylo nalezeno jak v oblasti původniho rozsiřeni, tak v oblastech introdukce hlavace. Introdukce noveho druhu parazita s introdukci N. melanostomus do nových oblasti na Dunaji vsak zjistěna nebyla. Introdukovane populace N. melanostomus byly naopak infikovany 9-ti druhy parazitů, ktere nebyly z oblasti původniho rozsiřeni znamy. Vyssi druhova diverzita spolecenstva parazitů byla zjistěna u introdukovaný...
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The present study constitutes an extensive survey of monogenean parasites of the European bitterling. The metazoan parasite communities were investigated in 21 different localities across its wide geographical range during 1998-2008. In... more
The present study constitutes an extensive survey of monogenean parasites of the European bitterling. The metazoan parasite communities were investigated in 21 different localities across its wide geographical range during 1998-2008. In the parasite communities studied, only two specialists of bitterling, Dactylogyrus bicornis and Gyrodactylus rhodei, were recorded. Other parasites were generalists parasitizing mainly cyprinid fish. A total four new records of monogenan species for bitterling were found. Gyrodactylus rhodei was the most widely distributed parasite recorded on bitterling at all investigated sites with higher prevalence and intensity of infection in riverine habitats. Obvious trend of negative correlation between the occurrence of D. bicornis and latitude was observed. The highest value of Shannon diversity index was recorded in Polish population of R. amarus.
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Community of metazoan parasites of round goby Neogobius melanostomus was investigated in three stretches of the River Danube: in Bulgaria (native population of round goby), Slovakia and Austria (introduced populations). In total 21... more
Community of metazoan parasites of round goby Neogobius melanostomus was investigated in three stretches of the River Danube: in Bulgaria (native population of round goby), Slovakia and Austria (introduced populations). In total 21 species were found to parasitize N. melanostomus. Parasite species richness decreased from Bulgarian to Austrian round goby population. However, the highest mean abundance of parasites was found in Austria, the lowest in Slovakia. No specific parasite species of N. melanostomus have been recorded. N. melanostomus was more likely to accept new parasite species in non-native area. Among these new parasite species, also the non-native species Anodonta woodiana and Anguillicola crassus occurred.
Research Interests: Biology and Round Goby
Morfometricka variabilita haptoru byla sledovana u tři druhů žabernich parazitů slunecnice pestre na ctyřech lokalitach v povodi řeky Dunaj. U ryb z ramenneho systemu Priehradky (SK) byla analyzovana prostorova distribuce Urocleidus... more
Morfometricka variabilita haptoru byla sledovana u tři druhů žabernich parazitů slunecnice pestre na ctyřech lokalitach v povodi řeky Dunaj. U ryb z ramenneho systemu Priehradky (SK) byla analyzovana prostorova distribuce Urocleidus similis a Actinocleidus recurvatus. U. similis se vyskytoval na vsech lokalitach a hostitelich. Jedina lokalita, na ktere byl zjistěn A. recurvatus, bylo Slovensko. Nejstabilnějsimi determinacnimi znaky U. similis a U. dispar byla delka vnějsiho výrůstku středniho hacku prvniho i druheho paru. V připadě A. recurvatus byla nejnižsi velikostni variabilita zjistěna u charakteristik střednich hacků (celkova delka, delka ostři, delka vnějsiho a vnitřniho výběžku). Analýza prostorove distribuce U. similis i A. recurvatus ukazala na preferenci druheho žaberniho oblouku. Oba druhy se vyskytovaly castěji na vnitřni straně žaberniho oblouku, přicemž U. similis preferoval vnějsi a A. recurvatus vnitřni povrch.
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Nasim cilem byl pruzkum sirokeho spektra biotopu v aluviu stredniho toku reky Gambie v Narodnim parku Niokolo Koba v jihovýchodnim Senegalu. V teto studii jsme se zamerili predevsim na srovnani abundance a diverzity spolecenstva ryb v... more
Nasim cilem byl pruzkum sirokeho spektra biotopu v aluviu stredniho toku reky Gambie v Narodnim parku Niokolo Koba v jihovýchodnim Senegalu. V teto studii jsme se zamerili predevsim na srovnani abundance a diverzity spolecenstva ryb v jednotlivých typech habitatu sledovaneho uzemi (hlavni tok, mensi pritoky, odstavene rameno, periodicke tune). Celkem bylo na sledovanem uzemi zjisteno 47 druhu ryb 33 rodu, 21 celedi a 9 radu. Nejhojnejsimi druhy byly Barbus macrops, B. pobeguini (Cyprinidae), Rhabdalestes septemtrionalis, Brycinus leuciscus, B. nurse (Characidae) a Tilapia guineensis (Cichlidae) vyskytujici se ve vsech typech habitatu. Složeni rybich spolecenstev jednotlivých biotopu se lisilo, pricemž každý biotop byl charakterizovan jednim ci vice specializovanými druhy.
Abstract Ergasilidae are a globally distributed group of copepods parasitising fish. Despite their common occurrence in European freshwaters, there is relatively little molecular data available. In this study, we recorded three ergasilid... more
Abstract Ergasilidae are a globally distributed group of copepods parasitising fish. Despite their common occurrence in European freshwaters, there is relatively little molecular data available. In this study, we recorded three ergasilid copepod species parasitising six fish species (families Cyprinidae, Percidae, Centrarchidae) in lentic water bodies along the River Morava in the Czech Republic: Ergasilus sieboldi infecting fish gills, Paraergasilus longidigitus infecting nasal cavities and Neoergasilus japonicus infecting fins. This represents a further occurrence of N. japonicus as a non-native European species, and the first report of P. longidigitusis from Central Europe waters. While strong niche selection potentially offers a free niche for each of these ergasilids in all hosts, parasite co-infections were relatively rare, with species distribution among hosts reflecting host preference. This study provides the first molecular data for E. sieboldi and P. longidigitus as native European ergasilid copepods. Phylogenetic analysis based on combined 18S and 28S rDNA showed a close relationship between P. longidigitus with other Paraergasilus species, supporting a monophyletic origin of this genus. The phylogenetic position of E. sieboldi was not clearly resolved, highlighting the need for more data and further intensive genetic investigations of other ergasilid species.
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A record of nematode parasites in bitterling fish is reported. Two nematode species were recorded parasitizing the European bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus). Infections were very rare (prevalence 0.82 %, mean intensity of infection 1).... more
A record of nematode parasites in bitterling fish is reported. Two nematode species were recorded parasitizing the European bitterling (Rhodeus sericeus). Infections were very rare (prevalence 0.82 %, mean intensity of infection 1). Bitterling was found to be a new suitable definitive host for Pseudocapillaria (Pseudocapillaria) tomentosa, but it appears to be unsuitable host for Philometra sp. Morphometric characteristics of recorded nematodes are presented. It is suggested and discussed that infrequent and extremely low nematode infections in this host reflect their feeding specialization (strict phyto- and detritophagy).
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Abstract. Non-native species are known to escape their parasites following introduction into a new range, but they also often acquire local parasites as a function of time since establishment. We compared the parasite faunas of five... more
Abstract. Non-native species are known to escape their parasites following introduction into a new range, but they also often acquire local parasites as a function of time since establishment. We compared the parasite faunas of five non-native Ponto-Caspian gobies (Gobiidae) and local fish species (Perca fluviatilis, Gymnocephalus cernua, Gobio gobio) in three European river systems; the Rivers Rhine, Vistula and Morava, where Ponto-Caspian gobies were introduced 4-13 years prior to the study. Overall parasite species richness was considerably lower in non-native gobies compared to local fish species, and the same result was found at the component and infra-community levels. Both parasite abundance and diversity greatly varied among the regions, with the highest values found in the River Vistula (Wloclawski Reservoir), compared to a relatively impoverished parasite fauna in the River Morava (Danube basin). While only half of parasite species found in local hosts were acquired by non-native gobies, most of the parasites found in gobies were shared with local fish species related either phylogenetically (percids) or ecologically (benthic gudgeon), including the co-introduced monogenean Gyrodactylus proterorhini. As a result, similarity in parasite communities strongly reflected regional affiliation, while phylogenetic distances between fish host species did not play a significant role in parasite community composition. In accordance with other studies, all parasites acquired by gobies in their new range were generalists, all of them infecting fish at the larval/subadult stage, indicating the possible importance of gobies in the life cycle of euryxenous parasites. The absence of adult generalists, particularly ectoparasites with low host specificity, in non-native fish may reflect their generally low abundance in the environment, while an absence of adult endoparasitic generalists was probably related to other factors.
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Ectoparasite species richness was controlled for host sample size and host body size (residuals from multiple regression).<b>Copyright information:</b>Taken from "Parasitism, life history traits and immune defence in... more
Ectoparasite species richness was controlled for host sample size and host body size (residuals from multiple regression).<b>Copyright information:</b>Taken from "Parasitism, life history traits and immune defence in cyprinid fish from Central Europe"http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2148/8/29BMC Evolutionary Biology 2008;8():29-29.Published online 28 Jan 2008PMCID:PMC2270801.
Question: How does sexual ornamentation relate to parasite infection, host immune response and somatic condition status in male fish? Hypotheses: Organisms: Spawning males of common bream (Abramis brama) and several of its parasites... more
Question: How does sexual ornamentation relate to parasite infection, host immune response and somatic condition status in male fish? Hypotheses: Organisms: Spawning males of common bream (Abramis brama) and several of its parasites (Gyrodactylus spp., Diplostomum spp., Argulus spp.). Variables: Parasite abundance (for parasite infection), spleen size (for host immune response) and condition (for somatic condition status). Results: The more tubercles on the fish, the more abundant the Gyrodactylus spp. The more tubercles on the fish's head, the more abundant the Diplostomum spp. The greater the mean length of the head tubercles, the more abundant the Gyrodactylus spp. and Argulus spp. However, we found no relationship between spleen size and either sexual ornamentation or parasite infection. Fish with larger spleens were in poorer somatic condition, but condition was not related to male ornamentation or parasite abundance. Conclusions: Males that develop more intensive sexual o...
Metazoan parasites of two fish species Neogobius melanostomus (round goby) and Neogobius kessleri (bighead goby) were investigated in our study. These species are native to Ponto-Caspian region and lower parts of adjoining rivers... more
Metazoan parasites of two fish species Neogobius melanostomus (round goby) and Neogobius kessleri (bighead goby) were investigated in our study. These species are native to Ponto-Caspian region and lower parts of adjoining rivers including Bulgarian part of the River Danube. Introduced populations of both species were recorded in the Middle Danube in 90s and have spread rapidly. Because parasites can represent one of the factors affecting process of invasion, the aim of this study was to compare parasite fauna of two goby species in their native and non-native area of distribution and to find out if different expansion of goby species can be connected with different parasite infestation of their introduced populations. During April and October 2005, the fish were sampled from the main channel of the River Danube: two localities in Bulgaria (native populations) and one locality in Slovakia and Austria (introduced populations). In total, 14 species were found to parasitize N. melanost...