Dermocystidium sp. infection in Blue Ridge Sculpin captured in Maryland
Raised pale cysts were observed on Blue Ridge Sculpin Cottus caeruleomentum during stream fish community surveys in Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland. When examined histologically, preserved sculpin exhibited multiple cysts containing spherical endospores with a refractile central body characteristic of Dermocystidiumspp. Cysts were not observed on the gills or internally. The portion of the watershed in which affected sculpin were observed contained lower than expected numbers of sculpin, raising concerns about the population effects of this infection. A nearby stream lacked sculpin even though they are common in this region, further suggesting the possibility of regional effects. This is the first report of a Dermocystidium infecting any fish species in the eastern United States.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2016 |
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Title | Dermocystidium sp. infection in Blue Ridge Sculpin captured in Maryland |
DOI | 10.1080/08997659.2016.1159622 |
Authors | Vicki S. Blazer, Nathaniel P. Hitt, Craig D. Snyder, Erin Snook, Cynthia R. Adams |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Journal of Aquatic Animal Health |
Index ID | 70178467 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Leetown Science Center; Contaminant Biology Program |