[banderas]

One of the eyes that was caught today had a whole bunch of parasites on its tail and pectoral fins.they looked like some kind of worm that was attached like a lamprey.they were about 1/2 inch in length and a milky color.there had to be at least 30 of these attached.does anyone haveany idea what they are ?

 

[Jeremy]

The parasites you are talking about are a species of leech. Currently there is a student at our office working on identifying the species and its interactions with the fish they attach to. I see these leeches attached to other species as well including perch, rockbass, etc. The fish that i've seen with the leeches don't seem to be any worse for the wear.

I haven't seen too many on the walleyes in our nets, although i did catch an eye today near metro that had quite a few on its tail, pec and pelvic fins.

Hopefully, i/we will know more soon about these little critters. I will be sure to post again when i have more info.

Jeremy