Observations on the occurrence of Diclidophora merlangi (Trematoda: Monogenea) on the gills of whiting, Gadus merlangus

Diclidophora merlangi is a common parasite of whiting in the Irish Sea. The incidence of infection over an 18-month period of study varied between 43-59%. The majority of flukes in single worm infections are found on the 1st gill arch, although in infections of higher intensity increasing numbers of parasites are found on the remaining arches. The factors which may influence the distribution of Diclidophora on the host gills are discussed.