Caracterização molecular de Probopyrus sp. (ISOPODA: BOPYRIDAE) e a infestação de populações continentais de Macrobrachium amazonicum (DECAPODA: PALAEMONIDAE) da Amazonia Oriental

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the relationship of a Bopyrid isopoda species of the genus Probopyrus parasitizing continental populations of Macrobrachium amazonicum. For this, a comparison was made with individuals from the continental (Santarém) and coastal (Abaetetuba, Afuá, Augusto Corrêa and Breves) areas of the Amazon. Two hypotheses arise for the registration of parasitized prawns in the region: (1) they may have been introduced or (2) are natural from the area. Morphometric analyzes of prawns and parasites were performed, as well as molecular analyzes with the COI gene and rDNA 18S. It was evidenced with this study, the presence of more than two species of parasites, thus suggesting that the parasite found in Santarém was not introduced and, therefore, endemic from the region. This work is the pioneer carried out in the interior area with a focus on parasitism, relating aspects of the population structure of M. amazonicum. Thus, this study becomes a reference for others that will arise regarding this interaction between the species M. amazonicum and Probopyrus sp., subsidizing comparative aspects with other sites. In addition, the molecular data analyzed in the present study point out the necessity of a morphological revision within Probopyrus as well as an amplification of the molecular studies.