Relationships between Biological Factors and Helminth Infections in Carangoides bajad in the Coastal Waters of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Carangoides bajad, a species found in marine environments, is vital for coastal ecosystems and holds significant economic importance. It is widely acknowledged that parasitic infections can impact fish populations. This research examines the influence of sociodemographic factors and helminth infections on Carangoides bajad. Throughout the year, 138 samples of Carangoides bajad were gathered monthly at the Saroom site along the coast of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. Parasites were carefully examined within the intestines of these fish. The overall infection rate was 61.6%. The most infected fish were within the weight range of 200-500g and measured 20-30cm in length. A single species of Trematoda Lecithochirium, one species of Cestoda Callitetrarhynochus gracillis, and two species of Nematoda Anisakis simplex and Camallanus were identified in the gastrointestinal tract and body cavity. These findings highlight the susceptibility of C. bajad to parasitic infections and emphasize the role of host size and potentially other sociodemographic factors in infection dynamics. Future research should awareness programs for local fishers and stakeholders could improve handling practices and reduce the transmission of zoonotic parasites like Anisakis simplex, which may pose risks to human health through seafood consumption.