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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
A look at a fisicroscope, several round organisms.

Parasitology

Updated September 29, 2026

Precision Identification & Taxonomic Discovery

The La Crosse Fish Health Center specializes in morphologically and molecularly identifying parasites, organisms that rely on aquatic hosts for survival and can cause significant pathology, from wild and cultured fish, freshwater mussels, and amphibians.

Why Our Parasitology Work Matters

Diagnostic Scope

Our parasitology services are dedicated exclusively to fish and other aquatic animals. We do not perform diagnostic testing for human parasites.

Paracreptotrematina parasite
Paracreptotrematina parasite at La Crosse Fish Health Center by USFWS
A look at a fisicroscope, several round organisms.

Partner & Collaborate With Us

The La Crosse Fish Health Center collaborates with academic institutions, state agencies, and research facilities worldwide to investigate complex aquatic host-parasite dynamics and describe emerging biodiversity.

To explore research partnerships, submit diagnostic cases, or collaborate on taxonomic descriptions, contact us below:

Eric Leis
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