Abstract
Parasitism of four corixid species in Lough Corrib, western Ireland, by larval watermites of the genera Hydrachna and Eylais was investigated. Differences in abundances of mite species were noted in respect of host species and different sampling localities. Infection parameters were not affected by host size, although host sex seemed to influence Hydrachna parasitism. Partial temporal separation of mites was observed in respect of larval attachment to hosts and emergence of nymphs. The largest nymphs were generally recorded from the largest hosts and from single infections. Intraspecific and interspecific competition was evident among parasites for host nutritive resources and growing space, especially on smaller hosts. The feeding intensity of parasitised Cymatia bonsdorfi was significantly greater than that of unparasitised bugs. Increased feeding by parasitised C. bonsdorfi may have been an attempt to compensate for the effects of nutritional drain by H. conjecta.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
