Cymothoid isopods are permanent ectoparasites of fish. In the present study Strongylura strongylura captured in gillnets from the inshore waters of Pazhayar from January to March-12. Among the 122 Belonidae fishes examined, 16 specimens were parasitized by isopods belonging to the species Mothocya karobran, a new record of this cymothoid isopod for the first time from India. Lowest prevalence occurred in January (10.5 %) and the highest in February (15.9 %). The infected fishes usually carried one cymothoid per branchial cavity. 12 parasites were found in the left branchial cavity and 4 parasites in the right. The non ovigerous female (18.5-24.7 mm) and female ovigerous (20.8-27.4 mm) in total length.
Keywords: Mothocya karobran; New record; Parasitic isopod; Pazhayar; Strongylura strongylura.