Nasobranchitrema facts for kids

Nasobranchitrema is a small type of flatworm. It belongs to a group of worms called monogeneans. These worms are parasites, meaning they live on another animal. They get their food and shelter from this animal, which is called a host. Nasobranchitrema is part of the Diplectanidae family of worms.

Scientists sometimes have different ideas about how living things are related. Some experts think Nasobranchitrema is closely related to the Diplectanidae family. Others believe it might be more like the Ancyrocephalidae family. This is because of certain features it has, like its body parts.

What is Nasobranchitrema?

Nasobranchitrema is a genus of tiny parasitic worms. These worms are very small and can only be seen well with a microscope. They are a type of monogenean. Monogeneans are flatworms that usually live on the outside of fish. They often attach to the gills or skin of their host fish.

Where Does Nasobranchitrema Live?

The unicorn fish Naso hexacanthus is the host of Nasobranchitrema pacificum

There is only one known species in the Nasobranchitrema genus. This species is called Nasobranchitrema pacificum. It was first described by a scientist named Satyu Yamaguti in 1965.

Nasobranchitrema pacificum lives on the gills of certain fish. Its main hosts are types of unicorn fishes. These fish belong to the family Acanthuridae. The worms have been found on Naso hexacanthus, Naso lituratus, and Naso brevirostris. All these fish live in the waters near Hawaii.

The gills of a fish are like its lungs. They help the fish breathe underwater. Nasobranchitrema pacificum attaches itself to these gills. It then feeds on the fish's blood or mucus.

Species of Nasobranchitrema

Currently, only one species is officially recognized in this genus:

• Nasobranchitrema pacificum Yamaguti, 1965