Echinococcus granulosus of equine origin from different countries possess uniform morphological characteristics

Kumaratilake, L.M., Thompson, R.C.A. and Eckert, J. (1986) Echinococcus granulosus of equine origin from different countries possess uniform morphological characteristics. International Journal for Parasitology, 16 (5). pp. 529-540.

Abstract

Echinococcus granulosus of equine origin from different countries possess uniform morphological characteristics. International Journal for Parasitology16: 529–540. Detailed comparative studies on isolates of larval and adult Echinococcus granulosus of equine origin from England, Scotland, Ireland, Belgium, Switzerland, South Africa and New Zealand demonstrated the morphological uniformity of the equine parasite. The morphological features of the equine strain of E. granulosus were fully characterized and it was found that on the basis of morphology alone, this strain could be differentiated from all other inter- and intraspecific variants of Echinococcus that have been described. The most important differential morphological characters are the dimensions of both larval and adult rostellar hooks, shape of ovary, testes distribution and details of the cirrus. As a result of the present study, it is apparent that the equine strain of E. granulosus has a widespread geographical distribution and there is evidence that the parasite may extend its range in the future. The question of whether consideration should be given to recognizing the equine strain as a formal taxonomic entity is discussed.