The host-parasite interface of Cyathocotyle bushiensis Khan, 1962 (Trematoda: Strigeoidea)

Abstract

A combination of histochemical and electron microscope techniques have demonstrated, in Cyathocotyle bushiensis, alkaline phosphatase activity in the matrix of the tegument, in the distal and basal plasma membranes of the tegument, in the wall of the ducts extending from the adhesive organ gland cells and in the wall of the adhesive organ microvilli. Acid phosphatase activity was much stronger and was present in the tegument matrix and in the granular component of the secretion from the adhesive organ gland cells. Strong acid phosphatase activity was also present in the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum of the adhesive organ gland cells.I am greatly indebted to Professor Brough for the excellent facilities available within this department. I also wish to thank Professor J. Sinclair (Department of Mining) for electron microscope facilities extended to me in the early stages of this investigation, and to Mr W. Henderson, Mr T. Davies and Miss M. Williams for their invaluable assistance. The purchase of the Huxley ultramicrotome, coating unit and an AEI EM 6 electron microscope was made possible by a grant from the Science Research Council.