Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Lernea is a common parasite of carps
Reason R: Lernea is an endoparasite and found inside the body of fish
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below

• A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true but R is false
• D. A is false but R is true

Hint:

To confirm ecto vs. endo:
- Ectoparasites live on the outside of the host (e.g., Lernaea, Argulus, Ichthyophthirius).
- Endoparasites live inside the organs/tissues of the host (e.g., intestinal nematodes, tapeworms).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Parasitic crustaceans represent a significant group of pests in freshwater aquaculture, with specific attachments and lifecycles on their hosts.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion A: Lernaea (commonly known as the anchor worm) is a highly common crustacean parasite infecting freshwater carps.
The adult female attaches to the fish skin, causing lesions, hemorrhages, and secondary bacterial infections.
Hence, Assertion A is true.
- Reason R: Lernaea is an ectoparasite, not an endoparasite.
The female parasite inserts its modified anchor-like head into the skin and musculature of the host, but its long, cylindrical body and egg sacs remain fully exposed on the outside of the fish. It is not found inside internal organs.
Hence, Reason R is false.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Assertion A is true but Reason R is false, which corresponds to option (C).