a nematode worm (parasite) in an eel swimbladder

A nematode worm in the swim bladder (note the swim bladder is deflated) of a shortfin eel from the Kaikou River. The swim bladder is an important organ as it helps fish to control their buoyancy. These parasites can disrupt eel migration by damaging their ability to dive to deeper depths during their ocean journey. Credit: NIWA