Myxobolus mississippiensis n. sp. (Myxosporea) from Gills of Lepomis macrochirus in Mississippi

Myxobolus mississippiensis n. sp. is described from gill lamellae of the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) inhabiting the Pascagoula River System, Mississippi. Fresh spores measure 16.4-18.7 μm long, 3.9-6.2 μm wide, and 4.7-6.2 μm thick. Spore width to length ratio is 1:3.2. Polar capsules are 5.5-7.8 μm long and 1.5-2.3 μm wide, with 9-10 filament coils that when extruded measure 42.1 ± 4.2 μm. This parasite is unique among known species of Myxobolus,/i> in having spores that are lenticular in frontal view.