Anisakid nematodes as possible markers to trace fish products

In this work a total of 949 fish samples were analysed for the identification of nematode larvae belonging to the Anisakidae family. Biomolecular application for the identification of Anisakidae larvae can be an optimal instrument for the traceability of fish products, described on the Reg. EC 178/2002. Results confirm a correlation between geographical distribution of fishes and presence of specific Anisakid larvae. FAO 37 zone (Mediterranean sea) showed a prevailing distribution of <em>Anisakis pegreffii</em> and a minimal presence of A. simplex s.s. in hybrid form with <em>Anisakis pegreffii</em>. FAO 27 zone showed a prevailing distribution of <em>A. simplex s.s</em>. in fish like Brosme (<em>Brosme brosme</em>) and infestation prevalence of Pseudoterranova krabbei and <em>P. decipiens s.s</em>. in <em>Gadus morhua</em>. Obtained results validate the hypothesis that molecular biology methods for identifying Anisakidae larvae are effective traceability markers of fish products.