Gorgoderids

Gorgoderids are a family of parasitic flatworms belonging to the class Trematoda, commonly known as flukes. These endoparasites primarily infect the urinary systems of vertebrates, particularly fish, amphibians, and reptiles, although some species can be found in mammals. The life cycle of gorgoderids is complex, typically involving two intermediate hosts in addition to the definitive host. The first intermediate host is usually a mollusk, where the parasite undergoes asexual reproduction. A second intermediate host, often an aquatic invertebrate like an insect larva or crustacean, ingests the infected mollusk or its cercariae. The definitive host then becomes infected by consuming the second intermediate host. Adult gorgoderids are typically found in the urinary bladder, ureters, or kidneys of their definitive hosts. They possess a flattened, oval to elongated body shape and possess suckers for attachment. While generally not considered significant pathogens in wild populations, heavy infections in cultured or captive animals can lead to clinical signs such as lethargy, anorexia, and urinary dysfunction. The family Gorgoderidae includes numerous genera and species, with their distribution varying geographically. Research on gorgoderids contributes to our understanding of parasite-host interactions and the ecology of aquatic ecosystems.