Acanthocephala and Tissue Damage in the Fish Parastromateus Niger

Tissue damage in the naturally infected intestine of the popular edible fish Parastromateus niger by the acanthocephalan parasite Serrasentis niger Bilqees, 1972 is described here based on original research. This infection caused considerable tissue damage. Penetration of the spiny proboscis of the parasite resulted into perforation of intestine wall and severe tissue reactions. Microscopic examination of the histology sections of infected intestine revealed destruction of all layers of intestinal wall. Degeneration of mucosa with necrosis was a common finding. Intestinal mucosa was completely destroyed at the site of penetration of proboscis. Villi and lamina propria were also completely destroyed due to which stratum compactum was exposed. Several necrotic patterns were observed, caseation necrosis was most obvious involving all layers of the intestinal wall. Sections of parasite were seen embedded in the mucosa and body cavity. Inflammatory process was extended from the surface involving the entire mucosa. A condition like atrophic enteritis was obvious. Severe infiltration of lymphocytes, macrophages and fibrinous exudates was prominent in the underlying area