Unravelling hidden battles: Genetic insights into parasite diversity and competition in mottled triplefin (Forsterygion capito).

ABSTRACT: Parasites play an important role in ecosystems, often exhibiting complex life cycles that involve two to four host species and transmission through trophic interactions. By tracking parasite life cycles, predator-prey links can be identified, offering valuable insights into food webs. In this study, we examined the helminth community of the mottled triplefin (Forsterygion capito), one of the most common intertidal fish species in New Zealand, using molecular techniques. We identified 14 parasite species, including one new to science and three new host records. These findings established new predator-prey links in the previously known local food web. We also provide evidence of parasite competition, focusing on the trematode Cardiocephaloides ovicorpus, the most prevalent and abundant paras

SUBMITTER: Viriyautsahakul S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12152018 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature