The present study reported parasites and its histopathological
effects on the tissue of the popular seafood clam Paphia undulata. Some
parasites were found to have several effects on shellfish aquaculture
production. Samples of clams were collected from Damietta shore, Egypt.
Histopathological examination was conducted on the gills, gonads, and
intestine of clams. Two types of parasites were detected in the infected
clams (protozoans and nematodes). The identification of Protozoa was
confirmed by using the electron microscope. This study revealed that 51%
of P. undulata were infected with parasites. The highest infection was
noticed in the clam size ranged from 2.1 to 4 cm. This infection declined
with the larger clams. The current study proved that there was a negative
association between the prevalence of parasites and clam size.
Histopathological effects of parasites on the clam gills, gonads, and intestine
were detected. Parasites not only affect clams but may also be transmitted to
consumers after eating undercoocked shellfish. So, this study warns against
eating raw seafood as it is considered a vehicle for the transmission of
human parasites.