The experimental receptivity ofHelicella (Helicella) itala andCepaea nemoralis (Mollusca, Helicidae) to larvae ofMuellerius sp. andNeostrongylus linearis (Nematoda, Protostrongylidae) from chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)

Abstract

Two batches of Helicella (H.) itala (adult specimen) and two of Cepaea nemoralis (adult and young specimens) were experimentally infected with larvae I (L-I) of Muellerius sp. and Neostrongylus linearis obtained from the lungs and faeces of Rupicapra rupicapra. In assess larval development, the number and percentage of the total number of larvae (L-I + L-II - L-III) per mollusc were studied, together with the number and percentage of L-III per snail and the days on which the different larval stages were reached. The development of Muellerius sp. and N. linearis was greater in larvae from faeces. For both species of molluscs, the values for the percentages of the total number of larvae and L-III were higher in N. linearis than in Muellerius sp., but there were no notable differences in the days on which the various larval stages were reached. Both nematodes achieved a greater degree of development in young specimens of C. nemoralis than in adults. Whether the larvae came from faeces or the lungs, H. (H.) itala was a better intermediate host than C. nemoralis for Muellerius sp. and N. linearis.