A Mermithid Nematode in Naiads of Damselflies (Odonata: Coenagrionidae)

Authors

  • R. O. Willis

Abstract

An undescribed species of the mermithid nematode genus Amphimermis was found parasitizing damselfly naiads in southwestern Louisiana. This is the first record of Amphimermis infecting insects in North America and also the first record of mermithids in damselflies. Parasitism ranged up to 81% in individual collections and was always lethal to the hosts. The effects of multiple parasitism on sex ratio and size of the parasite are discussed.

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Published

1971-12-01

Issue

Section

Literature Review Articles