PREVALENCE AND INTENSITY OF THE PARASITE Octolasmis spp. IN MUD CRABS (Scylla sp.) IN SOUTH SULAWESI

Abstract

Mud crab (Scylla sp.) is a high-value fishery commodity in South Sulawesi. However, their presence is threatened by ectoparasite infestation, Octolasmis sp., which has the potential to reduce the health condition, quality and economical value of mud crabs. This study aims to identify Octolasmis species and to determine the prevalence and intensity of Octolasmis sp. infestation in mud crabs from South Sulawesi. The research was conducted in August-September 2025 using a random sampling method with a total of 30 mud crabs from companies that submitted specimens for analysis to the Animal, Fish and Plant Quarantine Center of South Sulawesi. Observations of the Octolasmis sp. were conducted macroscopically and microscopically. From the observed samples, two types of Octolasmis sp. have been found infecting mud crabs in South Sulawesi, namely Octolasmis cor and Octolasmis angulata. The prevalence and intensity of O. cor were 26% and 138 ind/crabs, while O. angulata had prevalence and intensity values of 43% and 53 ind/crabs, respectively. Parasitic infestation by Octolasmis sp. in mud crabs in South Sulawesi is considered common and severe. Therefore, environmental management and a good aquaculture management are needed to reduce infestation risks and to prevent economic losses.