Did you know that there is a type of parasite that replaces the tongue of a fish? This parasite is called Cymothoa exigua, also known as the tongue-eating louse.
What is Cymothoa exigua?
Cymothoa exigua is a type of isopod that is found in the waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean. It is a parasitic crustacean that attaches itself to the tongue of a fish and feeds on its blood.
Once it attaches itself to the tongue, Cymothoa exigua will slowly eat away at the tongue until it falls off. The parasite will then take the place of the tongue and will continue to feed on the blood of the fish.
How Does the Fish Survive?
It may seem like the fish would die without a tongue, but surprisingly, it can still survive. The fish will use the remaining stub of its tongue to move food around in its mouth and swallow it.
Scientists believe that the fish may actually benefit from having the parasite as a replacement tongue. The parasite is much smaller than the original tongue and does not consume as much of the fish's resources. This may allow the fish to grow larger and reproduce more successfully.
How Does Cymothoa exigua Find Its Host?
It is not entirely clear how Cymothoa exigua finds its host, but scientists believe that the parasite may be attracted to the scent of the fish's gills. Once it finds a suitable host, the parasite will attach itself to the tongue and begin its feeding.
Can Cymothoa exigua Infect Humans?
While Cymothoa exigua may look frightening, it is not a threat to humans. The parasite only infects fish and has not been known to cause any harm to humans.
Conclusion
The story of the tongue-eating louse is both fascinating and terrifying. While it may seem like something out of a horror movie, it is a real-life example of the strange and complex relationships that exist in the natural world.
If you ever come across a fish with a strange-looking tongue, remember that it may be hosting a Cymothoa exigua parasite.