REPORT ON SOME ECTOPARASITIC ISOPODS FROM THE MARINE FISH, AMBLYGASTER SIRM

Two ecto-parasitic isopods namely, Ryukyua circularis and Nerocila pig mentata (Crustacea : Cymothoidae) were observed on the marine trenched sardine, Amblygaster sirm, from Parangipettai coast. Based on the obs ervation during their one year study period from January 94 to Decembe r 94, 14.66% of the fish, Amblygaster sirm, was found infested by thes e parasities. Male specimens registered higher infection rate than fem ales and indeterminants among the infested specimens. Seasonal variati on and site specific attachment of these parasites were also noticed.