Seasonal Variation of Pseudophyllidean cestode, Diphyllobothriumspp. Infection in Cyclops strenuus abyssorum (Copepoda) in Loch Lomond

Authors: MUSTAFA DÖRÜCÜ

Abstract: The seasonal variation in natural levels of infection with procercoids of pseudophyllidean cestodes, Diphyllobothrium spp, and the abundance of Cyclops strenuus abyssorum (Copepoda) were studied in Loch Lomond, Scotland, From March 1993, to February 1994. The prevalence of infected copepods was found to increase with the temperature of the water, a peak occurring in June, while relatively low levels were recorded between December and March. The population density of C. strenuus abyssorum also exhibited seasonal variation, being higher during the warmer months. Water temperature in Loch Lomond, near Rowardennan, ranged from 3.2 to 16°C. The lowest water temperature was recorded in January and the highest in July.

Keywords: Infection, Diphyllobothrium spp., Cyclops strenuus abyssorum

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