Biology of Thelazia callipaeda (Spirurida, Thelaziidae) eyeworms in naturally infected definitive hosts.

摘要: Thelazia callipaeda (Spirurida, Thelaziidae) eyeworm causes ocular infection in carnivores and humans the Far East; this has been recently reported also Europe – northern southern Italy dogs, cats foxes. The natural vector/s of T. is/are unknown development nematode its definitive hosts is limited to an experimental trial on dogs. To contribute new insights into host field conditions, eyeworms were collected from naturally infected dogs area with a high prevalence (up 60 . 14%) Basilicata region Italy, January 2002 December 2003. Conjunctival secretions examined for presence immature stages. blastomerized eggs throughout period except months May November indicates seasonality reproductive activity callipaeda, coinciding presence/absence vector. In fact, 1st-stage larvae found lachrymal summer (June–July 2003), ready be ingested by flies feeding about eyes. evidence 4th-stage March April, July October 2003 may accounted that act as intermediate early spring autumn. stages overlapping generation nematodes 2nd cycle vector infection. This basic knowledge will hopefully help future epidemiological studies identify define likely risk vectors conditions.