An Acid-Fast Pathogen of Fresh-Water Snails

Abstract

Summary A pathogenic acid-fast bacillus was isolated from the fresh-water snail Helisoma anceps and has been successfully maintained in pure culture. Techniques for the isolation and maintenance of this organism, as well as observations on its pathogenicity, are described. The results of experimental transmission of the organism to 13 strains of fresh-water snails, representing 6 species in 4 genera, are also presented.