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Length and hatchability of Schistosoma mansoni eggs
1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt.
Abstract:
Mature Schistosoma mansoni eggs, purely isolated from the intestines of infected mice, were allowed to hatch and classified microscopically according to their lengths. The hatching percentage and the type of shell rupture were studied. An inverse relationship between the length and hatchability of eggs was proved. Smaller eggs have a high hatchability percentage, while eggs larger than 160 um in length failed to hatch. The predominance of oblique type of tear in the shells after rupture suggests a longitudinal arrangement of egg shell chemical constituents.
Insights
Smaller Schistosoma mansoni eggs hatch more successfully. Eggs over 160 um in length do not hatch, indicating a size-dependent hatchability critical for understanding parasite transmission.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Helminthology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic flatworm causing schistosomiasis.
- Egg hatchability is crucial for parasite transmission and disease progression.
- Understanding factors influencing egg hatching is vital for control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between Schistosoma mansoni egg length and hatchability.
- To characterize the hatching process, including shell rupture patterns.
- To determine the maximum egg length capable of hatching.
Main Methods:
- Mature Schistosoma mansoni eggs were isolated from infected mouse intestines.
- Eggs were microscopically classified based on their lengths.
- Hatching percentages and shell rupture types were analyzed.
Main Results:
- An inverse relationship was observed between egg length and hatchability.
- Eggs smaller in size exhibited higher hatchability rates.
- Schistosoma mansoni eggs exceeding 160 um in length failed to hatch.
- The predominant shell rupture pattern was oblique, suggesting longitudinal structural components.
Conclusions:
- Egg size is a significant determinant of Schistosoma mansoni hatchability.
- A critical size threshold (160 um) exists beyond which hatching is impossible.
- Eggshell structure, indicated by oblique rupture, may influence hatching success.