PARASITIC PRESSURE OF Bucephalus sp. ON Leukoma pectorina: HEALTH AND ECOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS IN A TROPICAL ESTUARY

Resumo

The present study investigated the infection of the parasite Bucephalus sp. in the gonads and digestive acini of the bivalve Leukoma pectorina (Lamarck, 1818) in the estuary of Village Camará, Marapanim, Pará, Brazil, highlighting its reproductive and ecological impacts. Sampling was conducted from July 2008 to June 2009, with a total of 633 individuals collected and subjected to histological processing. The analysis revealed an average prevalence of 3.8% among the sampled individuals, with no significant seasonal variation, although parasitic intensity was higher during the dry season. The infection compromises gonadal function, causing follicular compression and subsequent infertility, particularly in females. Histological observations showed that the parasite predominantly develops in gonadal tissue, directly interfering with gamete production. As a response to infection, the mollusks exhibit an immune activation characterized by the encapsulation of sporocysts by hemocytes. However, this response appears insufficient to fully contain parasitic proliferation. The impact of Bucephalus sp. infection extends beyond individual damage, potentially compromising the population structure of L. pectorina. The reduction in reproductive capacity may lead to population declines, affecting the ecological chain and the local economy, especially in communities that rely on the harvesting and commercialization of these mollusks. Given these findings, continuous monitoring of L. pectorina populations is essential to understand the dynamics of the infection and its long-term effects. Sustainable management strategies may be necessary to mitigate negative impacts on the environment and fishery resources