What is Myxobolus cerebralis?
Q: What is Myxobolus cerebralis?
A: Myxobolus cerebralis is a small Myxozoan parasite that eats the insides of fish like salmon and trout, causing whirling disease.
Q: Where is Myxobolus cerebralis found?
A: Myxobolus cerebralis is found in most of Europe (including Russia), the United States, South Africa, and other countries.
Q: What does Myxobolus cerebralis need to live in before it can live in a fish?
A: Myxobolus cerebralis needs to live in a worm before it can live in a fish.
Q: How does Myxobolus cerebralis infect fish and worms?
A: Myxobolus cerebralis infects both fish and worms by poking a hole in them and putting part of itself in.
Q: What is whirling disease and who does it hurt the most?
A: Whirling disease is caused by Myxobolus cerebralis and it hurts young fish the most. It can hurt bones and nerves and makes it hard for fish to swim straight and get food.
Q: Does whirling disease affect humans?
A: No, whirling disease does not affect humans, only fish.
Q: Has Myxobolus cerebralis caused any significant fish population declines?
A: Yes, Myxobolus cerebralis has become well-established, particularly in North America, and has caused the decline of whole cohorts of fish.
