Quality issues related to the presence of the fish parasitic nematode Hysterothylacium aduncum in export shipments of fresh Northeast Arctic cod (Gadus morhua)

The parasitic nematode Hysterothylacium aduncum commonly occurs in many fish species the Northeast (NE) Atlantic. parasite is considered non-pathogenic to humans. During spring and summer of 2018, lots head-on eviscerated fresh NE Arctic cod (Gadus morhua) were shipped from Norway Spain for commercialization. At arrival, presence lively roundworms (i.e. H. aduncum) transporting boxes was noticed. Consequently, rejected causing substantial monetary losses all involved parties. As part hazard assessment process, epidemiology cod, saithe (Pollachius virens) haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) fished off West-Finnmark, Norway, studied. Parasites morphologically molecularly identified level. Additionally, viability assessed by simulating conditions that prevail during transport European market. infection values L4 larval stage or adult digestive tract highly variable, ranging 100% prevalence with mean abundance (range) 238 (10–1092) 27% 1 (0–22) haddock. Fishing season as most important explanatory factor abundance. Infection levels higher winter early spring, lower late spring. peaks three seemed coincide heavy predation on spawning capelin (Mallotus villosus) Thorough evisceration seems remove nematodes fish. However, parasites may remain hidden within head cavities where they can stay alive active under regular at least 14 days. be completely removed product evisceration, beheading rinsing prior shipping. Alternatively, thorough cleaning removal gills pharynx considered.