Observations on the Larval Stages of Muellerius capillaris within the Intermediate Hosts Agriolimax agrestis and A. reticulatus

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Abstract
1. The rate of development of the larvae of M. capillaris is slowed down as the temperature is lowered; at 25°C. the infective stage is reached after 8 days; at 5°C. after 98 days. 2. The differences between “pre-infective” and “infective” larvae, as described by Gerichter (1948), have been confirmed. 3. Larvae at the “infective” stage can withstand artificial digestion, but “pre-infective” larvae are unable to do so. 4. The infective larvae can survive for long periods within the foot of the intermediate host. 5. Pre-infective larvae can survive for seven days after the death of the intermediate host; infective larvae can live for sixteen days. 6. Naturally-infected slugs were found throughout the greater part of the year. 13.5 per cent of the slugs collected were infected but in most instances only a few larvae were present in any one slug.
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