Among mollusc pathogens, paramyxeans are an important group of protistan
parasites belonging to the genera Marteilia and Marteilioides. Marteilia refringens and M. sydneyi are of particular concern given
their potential impact on mollusc aquaculture world-wide. Aber disease and
QX disease are currently listed by the OIE, the World Organisation for
Animal Health. After more than thirty years of existence in the scientific
literature, these organisms still pose questions and research challenges to
investigators. This paper reviews current knowledge of the group and key
references. The review was focused on taxonomy, epidemiology, pathology and
potential control methods for these organisms in order to enhance
understanding of paramyxean infection issues in mollusc aquaculture.