FS47-04.10 April 2010 Anisakis in salmon

Summary

Anisakis is a marine parasitic worm (nematode) which is most commonly found in fresh water and anadromous fish, like wild salmon, which are born in fresh water, migrate to the ocean, then return to fresh water to reproduce. It is also common in certain small salt water fish, such as herrings and sardines. However, anisakis is rare in other salt water fish, such as tuna, swordfish and farm-raised salmon. This fact sheet details what anisakis is, symptoms of infection and incidences of anisakiasis.

Author

• Mandy Pyke,
• Karen Green

Publication Reference No.

FS47-04.10

Publication date

01 March 2010