Potential impact of marine heatwaves on the survival and transcriptomic signature of free-living third-stage larvae (L3) of Anisakis simplex (Nematoda: Anisakidae)

The transcriptomic patterns describe above indicate that short-term marine heatwave conditions (28 °C) severely compromise viability of free L3 of A. simplex, which clearly prioritize survival processes while suppressing developmental pathways. These findings suggest that the more intense, longer-lasting, and widespread marine heatwaves observed along the Spanish marine demarcation over the last 15 years may influence parasite persistence and transmission of infective stages to paratenic fish host. This highlights the One Health significance of such adaptative response, particularly regarding parasite biogeographical dispersion and associated zoonotic risk.