Common Names
While tongue-eating lice is the most common name for members of this family, they are also known as fish lice or simply cymothoids.
Characteristics
Cymothoidae exhibit a range of adaptations for their parasitic lifestyle. They are typically dorsoventrally flattened, with a body divided into three segments: a cephalon (head), a pereon (thorax), and a pleon (abdomen). The cephalon bears a pair of large, powerful mandibles used to feed on their host's flesh, as well as a pair of antennae and eyes.
The pereon is composed of seven segments, each bearing a pair of legs. The pleon contains six segments and a pair of uropods, which are tail-like appendages. Some species of Cymothoidae, like Cymothoa exigua, are known for their unique ability to replace their host's tongue. The parasite attaches to the base of the tongue and feeds on its blood, eventually causing the tongue to atrophy. The parasite then replaces the tongue, functioning as a surrogate organ for feeding.
Environments
Most species of Cymothoidae are found in marine environments, typically attaching to the gills, mouth, or skin of their host fish. They can be found in various geographical regions, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
References
For further information on Cymothoidae, consult the following resources:
