Myxobolus mississippiensis n. sp. (Myxosporea) from gills of Lepomis macrochirus in Mississippi.

ABSTRACT

Myxobolus mississippiensis n. sp. is described from gill lamellae of the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) inhabiting the Pascagoula River System, Mississippi. Fresh spores measure 16.4-18.7 microns long, 3.9-6.2 microns wide, and 4.7-6.2 microns thick. Spore width to length ratio is 13.2. Polar capsules are 5.5-7.8 microns long and 1.5-2.3 microns wide, with 9-10 filament coils that when extruded measure 42.1 +/- 4.2 microns. This parasite is unique among known species of Myxobolus in having spores that are lenticular in frontal view.