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Salmon louse, SEM
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Salmon louse, SEM
Salmon louse. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the underside of a salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis). This marine copepod crustacean is parasitic on salmon fish, attaching to its host and feeding on its skin. This can lead to infections and the deterioration of the fishs health. The salmon louse is a major problem in aquaculture, the farming of fish. In the dense fish populations found in marine salmon farms, louse numbers can grow rapidly. Infestation severely reduces the quality and quantity of the fish harvest. Treatment methods include pesticides and the use of smaller fish that eat the lice. Magnification: x10 at 6x7cm size
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Media ID 9308073
© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Aquaculture Brown Copepod Crustacean Ectoparasite Ectoparasitic Fish Farming Lice Parasite Parasitic Pest Intensive
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This print showcases the intricate world of the salmon louse, a parasitic crustacean that poses a significant threat to salmon in aquaculture. The coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) reveals the underside of this marine copepod, known as Lepeophtheirus salmonis. As an ectoparasite, the salmon louse attaches itself to its host and feeds on its skin, leading to infections and compromising the overall health of the fish. This becomes particularly problematic in densely populated marine salmon farms where louse numbers can multiply rapidly. The consequences of infestation are dire for both quality and quantity of fish harvests. Aquaculture farmers face numerous challenges when combating these pests, resorting to treatment methods such as pesticides or introducing smaller fish species that consume the lice. With a magnification level of x10 at 6x7cm size, this SEM image allows us to appreciate the intricate details and unique characteristics of this brown-hued parasite. It serves as a reminder of how delicate ecosystems can be disrupted by seemingly small organisms like these copepods. Through images like this one from Science Photo Library, we gain insight into our natural world's complexities while highlighting crucial issues surrounding wildlife conservation and sustainable practices in industries such as aquaculture.
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