Distribution of cysts of Strongyluris sp. (Nematoda) in the pallial system of Achatina fulica Bowdich, 1822 from Vila Dois Rios and Vila do Abraão, Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro

Research on the distribution of Strongyluris sp. cysts in the pallial system of Achatina fulica reveals that larger mollusks, particularly those over 9 cm in size, exhibit significantly higher cyst abundance compared to smaller individuals. This pattern was observed in two coastal villages, Vila Dois Rios (VDR) and Vila do Abraão (ABR), on Ilha Grande, Brazil. The study suggests that the increased hemolymph circulation in larger specimens may facilitate nutrient delivery for parasite larvae development, or that longer exposure to parasites allows more extensive colonization. No significant differences were found between the two locations regarding cyst abundance. The findings highlight a potential relationship between host size and parasite load, offering insights into the ecological dynamics of this nematode-mollusk interaction.

Oliveira, J. L., & Santos, S. B. (2019). Distribution of cysts of Strongyluris sp. (Nematoda) in the pallial system of Achatina fulica Bowdich, 1822 from Vila Dois Rios and Vila do Abraão, Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro. Brazilian Journal of Biology, 79(1), 38–44. https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.173449