Trace element content in two species of whale tapeworms, Diphyllobothrium macroovatum and Diplogonoporus...

Trace elements in two species of whale tapeworms, Diphyllobothrium macroovatum and Diplogonoporus balaenopterae, were analysed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Six elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Cd, Ca) were assayed from different regions of two tapeworms: scolex, neck, immature, mature and gravid proglottids. Whole strobilae at different stages of maturity were also examined. The relationship between the trace element content and the physiological significance is discussed.