Comparative study of the three attachment mechanisms of diplectanid monogeneans

摘要: Abstract One of the main characteristics monogenean family Diplectanidae Monticelli, 1903 is their complex haptor formed by 2 pairs hooks, transversal bars, 14 peripheral marginal and accessory adhesive organ (lamellodisc or squamodisc) that can be present absent. Sub-family Lamellodiscinae Oliver, 1969 presents one two lamellodiscs, several overlapped lamellar esclerites (lamellae) which are piled up. Species like Furnestina echeneis only have large ventral lamellodisc. This function has been categorized in different ways (i.e. organ, supplementary compensating disc sucker), although its real mode operation still unclear. Specimens Lamellodiscus F. were examined. The lamellodisc , studied both vivo fixed, seems to work as a sucker: separated lamellae revolve around single smallest lamella slats hand-held fan create suction volume. spp. (except basal one) slide telescopic movement, exerting posterior dorsal force tightens it secondary gill lamellae. contrary pulling hooks. Opposite forces together with attachment gives strong binding stability. These observations compared previous knowledge about Diplectanum aequans subfamily Diplectaninae 1903, whose squamodiscs numerous spines attach strategy. D. produces extensive deep alterations epithelium surrounding parasite. mechanisms diplectanid species explain degrees damage each provoke, information provided this useful for anthelmintic treatment designs.