Parasitic Larvae in Smallmouth Bass: Identification & Safety
Question
please,in last 2 weeks I am katch 5 bass ,each of this fish have inside the meat, smol 1/8 inch big larvae,or worm or samthing I never see before and it is a live and mooving on one side like a worm.Eah fish have a minimum 3 worm ,white kolor and one side is a litle red.How dangerus is this meat for eating and what is this? Thank you
Answer
If I am thinking of the right thing.. not seeing it I can not be 100% sure.
There is a parasite. It is normally found in bluegill, and other panfish, but can be found in bass. The parasite is harmless and will die when cooked. Best thing is to take it out, it should not cause you any problems. The meat should be good to eat.
HOWEVER, I would take it to a local Game Warden or take a picture of it and send it to me at jim@fghp.com
I can have a friend look at the picture. However I am pretty sure that that is what you are seeing. It is a common parasite in fish that are stressed.
Lakes with too many fish will have these, and the way to know is if you are catching a LOT of fish the same size. This is an indication of stunted growth. Stunted fish have these parasites more often than fish in properly managed bodies of water.
Let me know if this helps.
Like I said I can ask a friend if I have a picture, and give you a name you can look up on the internet.
Jim Dicken
Jim@fghp.com
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