First record of the genus (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) in India from ornamental goldfish ( L.) supplemented with description of a new species n. sp.

The present investigation deals with the accounts of a novel species of ciliate parasite belonging to the genus namely, n. sp. identified from the respiratory organ of goldfish at Nadia district of West Bengal, India. 276 fish have been collected for parasitological examination from various fish farm of West Bengal, India. The parasitological investigation was conducted using the AgNO impregnation technique, which was supplemented by a taxonomic description, morphological variations and data comparison with previously documented closely related species. n. sp. is a small-sized trichodinid, measures uniquely 19.21 ± 1.6 µm in body diameter, with prominent adhesive disc measure 15.55 ± 1.22 µm. The current investigation supports the first record of the genus from and adds one new species to the genus , as well as report of a new host, region and prevalence rates.