The occurrence and morphology of Caudospora spp. (Protozoa: Microsporida) in Newfoundland and Labrador blackfly larvae (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Abstract

Caudospora simulii is widespread in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and occurs in two species of Prosimulium. Caudospora brevicauda is recorded from the Island of Newfoundland and from Canada for the first time. The occurrence of a new spore form from Cnephia mutata is recorded from Labrador. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies were carried out with all three spore forms. The usefulness of SEM observations as a supplement to light microscope studies with microsporida is discussed.