Black spot disease related to a trematode ectoparasite causes oxidative stress in Xyrichtys novacula

Xyricthys novacula is very popular fish species in the Balearic Islands and a main target for recreational fishing. Over last years, spots were observed on many individuals, which seems to be progressively more common. The aim of present study was identify parasite, determine its abundance marine protected area (MPA) non-protected one with anthropic influence, evaluate antioxidant immune responses this parasite presence by studying biomarkers both liver epithelial mucus. Analysis genetic sequences established 98.6–98.4% certainty that digenean fluke Scaphanocephalus sp. An average 12.3 ± 11.3 1.3 parasites per individual found MPA, respectively. activities lysozyme superoxide dismutase total immunoglobulin concentration significantly higher mucus X. parasites. Similarly, liver, load related catalase, glutathione peroxidase S-transferase, whereas malondialdehyde remained similar. In conclusion, affects novacula, inducing an response liver. potential influence environment transmission, prevalence require further research whether it makes susceptible infections.