Effects of pH values and temperature changes on migration of Anisakis simplex DUJARDIN,1845 invasive larvae (Nematoda, Askaridoidea, Anisakidae) in mackerel (Scomber scombrus, L.)

Abstract

   Third stage larvae of the nematode Anisakis simplex (L3) were isolated by pepsin (artificial) digestion from the hypaxial muscles from Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus L.).

    The prevalence of encapsulated larvae on visceral organs was compared with the prevalence of larvae that migrated into muscles.

    The relation between the migratory number of larvae and pH in the muscles was analyzed at two temperatures (room temperature and refrigerator), at 24 hour intervals.

    The conclusions were based on statistical calculations, which showed that pH and temperature did not have a significant effect on migratory triggers of L3 from the viscera to the hypaxial muscles.

    The average percentage of L3 migrated postmortem from viscera is only 4.2% at room temperature (21°C), and 8.3 % at fridge temperature (4°C).