Cryptocaryon irritans (Ciliophora): primary infection in thick-lipped mullet, Chelon labrosus (Risso)

Abstract. Cryptocaryon irritans (Ciliophora), isolated from the reef fish, Grammistes sexlineatus Thumberg, was established as primary infections in mullet, Chelon labrosus (Risso). Only a small percentage (<22%) of exposed theronts established infection under controlled conditions. This is discussed in relation to the probability of host parasite contact and susceptibility. There was no evidence of density-dependent or intra-specific competition in trophont establishment, a strong linear relationship being found between the levels of exposure and infection. Infection intensity was assessed in relation to host survival, indicating a 90% probability of host death following levels of >200 trophonts per gram of host. A close temporal association between host death and trophont exit was found, possibly as a result of epidermal disruption leading to dysfunction of osmoregulatory and respiratory systems.