yooper_fisher
6/7/2011 10:25:00 AMSculpin
6/7/2011 11:41:00 AMchengpu
6/7/2011 12:55:00 PMSculpin
6/8/2011 9:53:00 AM"This sounds like a copepod. The “blister” is the actual copepod and the “worm-like protrusion” is the egg sac. There are a number of species of copepods that are commonly found in both fresh and saltwater. We do not see salmonicola at Puyallup Hatchery, but fish will become infested after planting in the lake. The copepod does not have a big impact on the fish, unless the gills are heavily infested, but it’s site of attachment can become infected with fungus or bacteria.
Humans cannot become infected with this parasite and the fish are suitable for human consumption unless the parasite load is heavy causing deterioration of the flesh by secondary infection."
I assume that it takes a while for the copepod to find a host fish and start this portion of its lifecycle. Perhaps, the timing of their attachment to the host for egg laying is dependent on water temperature. All for now, tight lines!
Sculpin