Observations on the seasonal occurrence of the fish ectoparasite. Dolops ranarum (Stuhlmann, 1891) (Crustacea: Branchiura) in the Transvaal: Short communication

Infestation statistics of Dolops ranarum on its host fish in Roodeplaat Dam were calculated from information collected during monthly surveys. The highest prevalence was recorded during late summer and autumn where after a gradual decline was observed until October when no fish were infested. During early summer small specimens were once again collected on host fish. It is suggested that Dolops ranarum females produce only one batch of eggs and the possibility exists that an intermediate host may be involved. When Oreochromis mossambicus and Clarias gariepinus are infested, the parasites remain associated with these hosts until spring when the females leave the hosts for egg laying.