Characteristic features of Ladoga lake char (Salvelinus alpines L. ) parasitofauna

The present state of Lake Ladoga ecosystem results from a complex interaction of natural processes and anthropogenic impact on the lake and its water shed. Salmonid parasitofauna is characterized by its wide diversity dependent on the size of the water basin. The article presents the results of the lake char parasitofauna investigations in Karelia. We studied Ladoga lake, Onego lake and Pyozero lake, performed a comparative parasitofauna analysis of these lakes, and identified both specific and mass types of parasites. Both extensive and intensive invasions have been defined. The differences in the lake char parasitofauna have been noted. In spite of all the similarities in typology and fauna, Lake Ladoga and Lake Onego are not identical. Some marine relicts have been conserved in Lake Ladoga, which reflects definite historical links between the lake and the Baltic Sea.