First abnormalities investigation in Mullus barbatus (Mullidae) from the Eastern Coast of Algeria

Abstract

Red mullet Mullus barbatus, Linnaeus, 1758, is a benthic marine fish. Because of its wide geographic distribution and close association with sediments, red mullet is commonly used as a sentinel species for pollution assessment along the Mediterranean coast. A total of 500 specimens were examined from the Gulf of Bejaia, eastern coast of Algeria, from June 2018 to June 2019 by X-ray radiography and histopathological examination. We observed for the first time in Algeria complex spinal column deformities (kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis), vertebral coalescence, vertebral fusion, missing of one pelvic fin, caudal fin abnormalities, congested cheek, lymphocystis, ovary malformation, and asymmetric testis. Additionally, fibrosis, inflammatory reaction, melano-macrophage centres, necrosis, atresia, and disturbance of normal tissue were detected by histopathology examination.