Larval Anisakid (Sulcascaris) Nematodes from Atlantic Molluscs with Marine Turtles as Definitive Hosts

Abstract

LICHTENFELS, J. R., BIER, J. W. & MADDEN, P. A. 1978. Larval anisakid (Sulcascaris) nematodes from Atlantic molluscs with marine turtles as definitive hosts. Trans. Amer. Micros. Soc., 97: 199-207. Anisakid nematode larvae identified to the genus Sulcascaris Hartwich, 1957 have been collected from several marine molluscs: surf clam Spisula solidissima, calico scallop Argopecten gibbus, Atlantic bay scallop Argopecten irradians, moon sail Lunatia heros, and whelk Busycon canaliculata. As an adult, the only known species of this nematode genus (Sulcascaris sulcata) parasitizes the stomach and intestine of the green (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtle. Parasitized turtles occur in the areas where the larvae parasitize the molluscs. The excretory system of S. sulcata includes an excretory pore at the base of the ventral interlabium, a large ventral ribbon-like gland cell with a nucleus posterior to the level of the ventriculus, and an excretory canal in the right lateral chord that extends posteriorly about half the length of the body. Thirdand fourth-stage larvae from molluscs are described and compared with fourth-stage larvae and adults from marine turtles. Comparative data for fourth-stage Sulcascaris from Australian turtles and a scallop are also presented.