Anchor Worm

Natural Habitat

Freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and rivers where fish hosts are present

Diet & Feeding

Parasitic; the adult female embeds its head into fish tissue to feed on blood and bodily fluids

Behavior Patterns

Has a multi-stage life cycle; males die after mating, while females burrow into a host, develop a large anchor-like head, and produce twin egg sacs

Risks & Benefits

Highly detrimental to fish health, causing inflammation, secondary infections, and potential death; no direct risk to humans but is a major pest in aquaculture

Identified on: 1/3/2026