Histochemical characteristics of Gyrodactylus derjavini parasitizing the fins of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Histochemical studies of enzyme activities and structural elements in Gyrodactylus derjavini Mikailov, 1975 parasitizing fins of Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum were conducted. Marked activities of non-specific esterase, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and amino-peptidase were found in the intestinal caeca of the parasite. A strong activity of acetylcholinesterase was seen in the nervous system. Extraintestinal non-specific and eserine-sulphate resistant esterase was localized in the distal part of the hamulus sheath. Activities of peroxidase and glucuronidase were not detected. In the embryo, developing hamuli were enclosed in a sheath rich in phospholipids. Deposits of neutral lipids were sparse. The fully developed ventral and dorsal hamulus bars stained strongly for calcium. Lectin binding assays showed a mannose rich region in the cephalic duct openings, strong reactions for galactose in the glycocalyx whereas reactions for lactose were weak. These findings are discussed with respect to the parasite-host relationship.