Population biology of Paragonimus kellicotti metacercariae in central Ohio

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Abstract
Summary: The distribution of Paragonimus kellicotti metacercariae in a mixed population of crayfish from a small central Ohio stream was studied for two seasons. The distribution of worms in crayfish approximates the negative binomial distribution. Prevalence and intensity of infection increased with crayfish body weight. Although no difference in intensity of infection was noted between male and female crayfish, the prevalence of infection was higher in males. The data demonstrate a seasonal recruitment of metacercariae into the crayfish only during late summer and autumn. Metacercariae can live for over 1 year but some die and become mineralized. There is no apparent detrimental effect of P. kellicotti infection on the crayfish. The seasonal timing of life-cycle events is postulated.