PARASITES AS POTENTIAL STOCK MARKERS FOR TUNA IN INDONESIAN WATERS
Abstract: Tuna fish are highly
migratory species. Clarifying their stock structures and migration patterns is
important for tuna fisheries management. The purpose of this research was to
examine the parasites of bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus
albacares) to determine which parasites may be potential stock markers for
assessment of tuna migration patterns. Bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna were
collected (measured between 28-48 cm fork length) from 9 sites across Indonesia
and from 2 ‘outlier sites’ (The Maldives and Solomon Islands). Organs including
gills (filaments and branchial arches), stomach wall, liver, pyloric caeca, and
intestines were examined. Seven types of didymozoids were distinguished
including 3 Didymosulcus spp., 4 Kollikeria spp. and one acanthocephalan
(Bolbosoma sp.). The results suggest these fish parasites are potentially
useful markers for assessment of tuna migration pattern, contributing
information needed for fisheries management in Indonesia.
Keywords: parasites; stock
markers; Indonesia
Author: Pratiwi Lestari, R.J.G
Lester, Craig Proctor
Journal Code: jpperikanangg170009
