Raillietina dattai n. sp. from Poultry (Gallus Gallus domesticus) in India

Abstract

Morphology: Length varies from 15 to 20 cm; maximum breadth 2 to 3 mm. Scolex measures 370 microns long and 400 microns wide. Suckers armed and each one bears 10 rows of hooks very small in size. Rostellum measures 70 microns in length and armed at its base with a double row of innumerable hooks 8 to 10 microns in length, hooks of anterior row slightly larger than posterior hooks. Fully mature segments 0.28 mm long and 1.8 to 2 mm broad, gravid segments 0.9 mm long and 2.8 mm broad. A single set of generative organ in each segment. Genital pores unilateral and open slightly anterior to middle of lateral margin of segments. In gravid segment opening appears to be right at middle. Testes 23 to 25 in each segment, 6 to 8 poral and 16 to 19 aporal. Cirrus sac very prominent and resembles shape of an hour-glass, very muscular and measures 250 microns in length and 70 microns in breadth; reaches excretory vessel. Cirrus unarmed. Vas deferens lies coiled along anterior margin of segment in a straight line and reaches near middle of segment. Seminal vesicle was not traceable. Ovary fan-shaped and much lobed measuring 210 microns x 270 microns, placed at middle of segment slightly anteriorly; vitelline gland compact and occupy posterior aporal corner of ovary. Vagina a muscular tube. Receptaculum seminis was not discernible. Uterus gives rise to 80 to 100 egg capsules which extend laterally beyond excretory vessels. Each capsule contains 6 to 12 eggs; egg measures 29 to 32 microns. Host: Gallus gallus domesticus. Location: Small intestine. Locality: Patna, India. Type specimens are preserved in author's collection.