Oculotrema [Oculotrema]

Description

Oculotrema is a unique genus within the Polystomatidae family, notable for its exclusive parasitism of the eyes of marine and freshwater species, particularly focusing on turtles. These parasites are easily identified by their specialized haptors, which are adapted to attach securely to the delicate ocular surfaces of their hosts. The genus is characterized by its life cycle that promotes transmission through direct contact with infected water or through the prey-predator relationship. Oculotrema species play a significant role in the study of host-parasite interactions, particularly in understanding the impacts of parasitism on the sensory organs of aquatic reptiles.

Species

Hippopotamus Stalk-eyed Fly [Oculotrema hippopotami]

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Taxonomy