Studies on Hydatigera taeniaeformis I. Growth of the Larval Stage

Abstract

Investigations on the development and growth of larval Hydatigera taeniaeformis in strain A mice have shown that, on the 30th day after infection, an invaginated cysticercus developed. This evaginated on the 42nd day, and by the 48th day a strobilocercus had formed. The youngest strobilocerci capable of infecting cats had a fresh weight of 20 mg each and were recovered from mice after 60 days. Rapid growth occurred during the first 6 weeks. Thereafter, the growth rate slowed down and, with light worm burdens, growth stopped 22 weeks after infection. Heavy and light worm burdens grew at the same rate initially, but, beyond the 6th week, the growth rate of worms in heavy burdens was retarded.