Orientation to light of juvenile and adult forms of melanic and albino populations of Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818)

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Abstract
The process of light orientation by the snail Biomphalaria glabrata was studied using the selection technique in a Y-shaped aquarium under vertical or horizontal lighting schemes. Snail behavior was measured on the basis of distance (cm) covered per hour, direction of locomotion, and localization of the animal in the aquarium. A comparison was made of the action of the light stimulus on young and adult animals of albino populations from Santa Luzia (State of Minas Gerais, Brazil) and of a melanic population from Touros (State of Rio Grande do Norte) studied in groups and separately. All groups studied were attracted to light. Analysis of the data suggests the exitence of two orientation mechanisms with respect to light in these animals, i.e. high photo-orthokinesia and positive phototaxis, which influence their motion in the environment. This evidence permitted us to discuss features of the distribution dynamics of these mollusks in the environment and their relationship with the larval phases of Schistosoma mansoni, for which they act as intermediated hosts.

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