Tongue-Eating Parasites Discovered In UK Fish Shipment

Tongue-eating parasites were discovered in a container of sea bream destined for human consumption in the United Kingdom, according to Aisha Rimi of The Independent reported.

Photo Insert: The parasites, known scientifically as Cymothoa exigua, were then detected in and around the fish packaging.

Following a normal health check, the Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority (SCPHA) refused entrance and returned the container to its country of origin. When the SCPHA discovered that the importer had failed to complete the proper papers, the consignment aroused concerns.

The parasites, known scientifically as Cymothoa exigua, were then detected in and around the fish packaging.

According to experts, the parasites are harmless to humans until they are picked up alive, since they can bite. The parasite enters the host fish through the gills and remains until the maturation process is complete. The blood vessels in the fish's tongue are then severed, causing it to fall off.

The parasitic critters latch onto the remaining stub and become the fish's new tongue.

“Cases such as these are clear reminders of why we work hard to investigate imports and ensure they’re safe for human consumption," said Danut Cazacu, an official veterinary surgeon at SCPHA who identified the health concern.

"Many goods pass our health checks without presenting risks, but we sometimes receive unacceptable consignments and must be ready for anything.”

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