Originally Posted by
fishmounter
SP Dan.. Here you go - "Nerocila acuminata is a parasitic isopod related to Cymothoa exigua, the infamous tongue-replacer. This isopod clings onto the skin of its fish host, feeding on blood and tissue. When it detects a potential host swim by, it launches itself at the target fish like a guided torpedo, making precise directional and speed adjustments to ensure it lands on its target with claws outstretched . Upon contact, the isopod starts digging in, causing terrible, terrible damage to the skin of its fish." (Remember the original horror movie "Alien"…) Seriously I've heard that they won't attach themselves to humans or mammals. Just fish that have a slime coating. It's weird how you don't see these parasites on halibuts. I have done lots of diving and swimming in Newport Harbor; through all kinds of eelgrass and kelp, and I've never had any problems with these isopods. I've been stung by jellyfish and also by pulling their stinging slime off my fishing line… anyone have that happen to them? "What's all this slimy stuff on my line?" Don't touch it!