First detection of Eustrongylides excisus (Nematoda: Dioctophymatidae) in big-scale sand smelt (Atherina boyeri) from the lake Massaciuccoli (Northwest Tuscany, Italy): implications for public health and seafood quality

Eustrongylides spp. are cosmopolitan parasitic nematodes with several freshwater fish species as intermediate or paratenic hosts, rarely reported zoonotic agents. This work aims to report, for the first time, occurrence of this parasite in specimens big-scale sand smelt (Atherina boyeri) caught lake Massaciuccoli (Northwest Tuscany, Italy). Totally 3317 A. boyeri were collected three different samplings (August–October 2019). Fish visually examined and then submitted artificial digestion. Visible parasites counted after both procedures, they identified genus level by microscopic examination molecular analysis ITS gene region. Overall, 75 larval stages excisus found (P: 2.3% 95% CI 1.8–2.8; MA: 0.02; MI: 1), viscera muscle. is a highly appreciated Italian areas well various Mediterranean countries. Beside an epidemiological interest due its role cycle, report E. study area arises possible quality public health issues. Therefore, also considering method preparation that lately increasing consumption raw has targeted species, it essential communicate presence hazard need applying appropriate sanitary measures all FBOs along supply chain consumers.