On the fine structure of female Caligus infestons Heller, 1865 (Copepoda: Siphonostomatoida)

Abstract

Although much work has been done on the piscine parasitic genus Caligus Müller, 1785, morphological and especially anatomical work has been largely neglected, leading to confusion as to, for instance, the phylogenetic origin and identity of appendages. The present study provides scanning electron microscopical information on the fine structure of the female of Caligus infestans Heller, 1865. The study of the true ultrastructure and perhaps more important, the orientation of the appendages of these parasites, provide valuable information on the functional adaptations towards the utilization of the parasitic niche.