Abstract:
The phylum Acanthocephala is a small, discrete and very distinct group of obligate endoparasites also known as thorny headed worms which are distributed worldwide with almost 1300 reported species. In this study, we investigated host specific strain of Polymorphus minutus. For this purpose, we characterized the morphological features of Palaeacanthocephalan specie (Polymorphus minutus), the first representative of the genus Polymorphida, from its main host Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). Previously reported data of P. minutus is not enough to develop a better understanding due to scarcity of detailed description. Samples were collected and further processed for light microscopy, histology and Scanning electron microscopy. Parasite oval, elongate, with a prominent constriction observed at half body length, dividing it in two parts. Anterior body part, before the constriction, partially covered with numerous small spines. Maximum body width usually achieved at the middle level of posterior body. Proboscis receptacle much elongated and saclike. Proboscis is oval in shape and armed with 15 to 17 longitudinal rows of hooks, with 8-10 hooks in each. The lengths of hooks are smaller at the base of proboscis. The present specie has identical features with regard to appearance as reported for P. minutus in prior studies and majority of main features (Body size, anterior trunk spines, shape of proboscis, and number of hooks in a row) are identical but there is a contradiction in proboscis and body ratio, size of proboscis and length of hooks. The results obtained are used to clarify possible structure of the surface of the parasite which would facilitate the absorption of nutrient substances through the body wall.
Page(s):
0-0
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: First International Conference on Revamped Scientific Outlook of 21st Century (Abstract Book), Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2022