Detection and Identification of Helminth Parasites in Fish by Pepsin Digestion Method

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ABSTRACT

               Fish-borne zoonotic parasites (FZPs), particularly helminths such as trematodes, pose significant threats to global aquaculture, public health, and food safety. These infections commonly occur through the consumption of raw or undercooked fish harboring infectious larval stages. In the present study, parasitic larvae were detected in the muscle tissues of edible fish species obtained from local markets in Lucknow, India, using the pepsin digestion method. Among the various species examined, Channa punctatus showed the highest prevalence of Lophosicya diplostomum metacercariae (7.14%), while Echinostoma spp. was observed at a lower prevalence (1.42%). Additionally, metacercariae of Metagonimus yokogawai and Echinostoma spp. were detected in Heteropneustes fossilis, and Haplorchis yokogawai was found in Mystus tengra at low abundance. The findings highlight the zoonotic potential of commonly consumed freshwater fish and underline the need for comprehensive epidemiological surveys, especially in regions with traditional raw fish consumption practices. Routine parasitological screening and public awareness are essential to mitigate the risks associated with FZPs.

KEYWORDS: Fish-borne Zoonotic (FZP), Channa punctatus, Pepsin, Larvae, Muscle tissue, Metacercariae, Trematode