THE Department of Fisheries has received scientific advice to provide preliminary identification of a worm found in cysts on the flesh of marron caught at Grimwade Large Dam, north east of Balingup.
The identification follows warnings issued last week for fishers not to catch or consume marron from the dam after marron caught recently in the large dam was found to have high numbers of cysts. Marron from Grimwade Small Dam did not have cysts.
Principal Fish Health Research Scientist Dr Cecile Dang said that, upon initial examination, a parasitology expert had identified the worm as being part of the large group of worms called trematodes.
“The specific species of worm that is present in the marron sourced from Grimwade Large Dam is still to be confirmed and further assessment is underway,” Dr Dang said.
“These trematodes worms are common in Australia and in Western Australia, but they have not been detected in WA marron before.
“While these worms are not known to cause any human health problems, we encourage people to continue to exercise caution and not eat any marron with cysts until a positive identification is made.”
Dr Dang said this group of worms have complex life cycles that involve multiple specific hosts, sometimes including crayfish and turtles.
“It is quite possible that these worms are part of the ecosystem in WA freshwater bodies and, if so, are unlikely to be of ongoing concern,” she said.
“Until further information is available, we are encouraging recreational fishers not to move live marron between water bodies.
“In addition, fishers should adopt the good practice of inspecting their catches to ensure their catch is healthy as well as checking and cleaning their gear between using it in different fishing locations.
“If a worm is found in marron flesh in South West waterways, we urge fishers to alert the
Department of Fisheries by calling FishWatch on 1800 815 507.”
FishWatch is a 24/7 reporting line that provides a quick and easy way to report evidence of aquatic diseases, fish kills, sightings of aquatic pests and suspected illegal fishing activity.
The recreational marron fishing season is due to end at noon on Thursday February 5 and no marron should be taken from any of the State’s public waterways after that time.