Parasites?

[George]

Please keep an eye out for what looks to be some type of parasite on our fish. It could be nothing serious but if possible please post any photos of them should you see it. I'd say more that half of the fish in catching have them.

 

[George]

Here is the response I received from the FWC

I believe all of those are the Fish Louse (“Argulus”), a fairly common external parasite on largemouth bass. From my observation they don’t seem to harm the bass, although it is unusual to see them inside the mouth (I think they are the same as the other parasites from the photo). I can tell you that filleted and fully cooked bass will be safe to eat (as far as this parasite goes—for mercury consumption advisories, which is another issue, check https://www.floridahealth.gov/progr...seafood-consumption/fish-advisories-page.html). One thing I must mention is that some more serious parasites have shown up in more recent years, mainly in saltwater fish, so research any others that you may see. For some information on this parasite (and other common ones you might come across), see the attached newsletter and article. I hope this helps

Regards,
John Cimbaro

Biological Scientist III | Division of Freshwater Fisheries

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Office: 561.882.5721

Cell: 561.662.1906

 

[BillDavidson]

Here is the response I received from the FWC

I believe all of those are the Fish Louse (“Argulus”), a fairly common external parasite on largemouth bass. From my observation they don’t seem to harm the bass, although it is unusual to see them inside the mouth (I think they are the same as the other parasites from the photo). I can tell you that filleted and fully cooked bass will be safe to eat (as far as this parasite goes—for mercury consumption advisories, which is another issue, check https://www.floridahealth.gov/progr...seafood-consumption/fish-advisories-page.html). One thing I must mention is that some more serious parasites have shown up in more recent years, mainly in saltwater fish, so research any others that you may see. For some information on this parasite (and other common ones you might come across), see the attached newsletter and article. I hope this helps

Regards,
John Cimbaro

Biological Scientist III | Division of Freshwater Fisheries

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

Office: 561.882.5721

Cell: 561.662.1906

George, perhaps this guy would give a good talk at one of our meetings? I’m sure he could find a good topic for bass anglers.

 

[sreto]

Thanks for sharing the photos and the feedback from the Florida Fish & Wildlife!