Helminth Fauna of Green Frogs ( Rana esculenta Complex) in the Central Chernozem Territory of Russia

Abstract

Thirty three species of helminths, including 24 Trematoda and 9 Nematoda, were recorded in three species of green frogs ( Rana esculenta complex) in two localities in Central Chernozem Territory of Russia. The largest species diversity of trematodes (20 species) and the greatest extensity of trematodes invasion were registered in R. ridibunda from the Tambov City vicinities. In the Khopersky Nature Reserve (Voronezh Oblast’), the helminth fauna of R. ridibunda was characterized by the largest species diversity, R. lessonae — intermediate, and R. esculenta — the lowest one. Significant differences between these three species of green frogs were detected on extensity of invasion by some species of helminths. The largest similarity had helminth faunas of R. lessonae and R. esculenta , the lowest one — R. ridibunda and R. esculenta .