Cestode Infection of the Native Brine Shrimp (Artemia parthenogenetica) in Çamaltı Saltpan (İzmir/Türkiye)

Artemia sp. populations in saltworks throughout the world have been gaining importance due to their extensive use in aquaculture and their importance as the main prey organism for aquatic birds in hypersaline ecosystems. The genus Artemia sp. is also known as the intermediate host of some cestode species that are associated with flamingos. In this study, Flamingolepis liguloides parasitism was determined in Artemia partenogenetica for the first time in Turkiye. Infected A. parthenogenetica was detected in İzmir Çamaltı saltpans between May-August 2018 and the parasite diagnosis was made. Parasites were detected near the abdomen, thorax and the intestinal tract of A. parthenogenetica. The prevalence of parasites was higher in adult Artemia (63.6%). The presence of F. liguloides in A. parthenogenetica was very high with a frequency of 72.2%. The most abundant and prevalent parasite infection was recorded in July which is the most suitable time of the year with respect to number of flamingos in the area. The results show the prevalence of this parasite infection in A. parthenogenetica, which may be important for both the local Artemia population in the area and the flamingos breeding in Çamaltı saltpans.