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Tetrameres (Petrowimeres) striata in ducks
J F Bergan1, A A Radomski, D B Pence
1Department of Range and Wildlife Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock 79409.
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Tetrameres (Petrowimeres) striata, a nematode in waterfowl, is redescribed based on specimens from North America and Eurasia. Distinct spicule morphology differentiates it from related species, revealing pathological changes in infected proventricular glands.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Helminthology
- Avian Pathology
Background:
- Tetrameres (Petrowimeres) striata is an uncommon nematode species with limited prior description.
- Waterfowl serve as hosts for various parasitic nematodes, impacting their health and population dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a redescription of Tetrameres (Petrowimeres) striata using specimens from diverse geographical locations.
- To differentiate T. (P.) striata from closely related species based on morphological characteristics.
- To describe the pathological effects and host inflammatory responses associated with T. (P.) striata infection in waterfowl.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of nematode specimens collected from mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), mottled ducks (A. platyrhynchos fulvigula), and blue-winged teal (Anas discors).
- Comparative analysis of spicule morphology to distinguish T. (P.) striata from T. (P.) zakharowi and T. (P.) galericulata.
- Histopathological examination of infected proventricular tissues to assess lesion development and host response.
Main Results:
- Redescription of T. (P.) striata based on specimens from North America (USA) and Eurasia (Russia).
- Key diagnostic differences identified: left spicule size and right spicule proximal cuff morphology.
- Nematodes were found in proventricular mucosal glands and submucosal cavities, causing tissue compression and varying inflammatory responses, including necrotic debris and cellular infiltration.
Conclusions:
- The redescription clarifies the taxonomic status of T. (P.) striata within the genus Tetrameres.
- Spicule morphology is crucial for differentiating T. (P.) striata from congeners.
- Infection by T. (P.) striata can induce significant pathological changes in the proventriculus of waterfowl, with host responses ranging from minimal to intense inflammation.