Studies on the Life History of Hymenolepis citelli (McLeod, 1933) (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea)

Abstract

The life cycle of Hymenolepis citelli (McLeod, 1933) has been experimentally demonstrated in the laboratory. Infective cysticercoids were obtained in laboratory-reared Tribolium confusum and Tenebrio molitor, in 14 days. Fully mature worms were obtained in ground squirrels (Citellus beecheyi) 18-19 days after infection. In addition, laboratory rats and mice were also infected. The differences and similarities of the larval stages of H. citelli and H. diminuta are discussed. Observations on the life cycle of H. citelli confirm the view that this form is distinct from H. diminuta.