The open-field behaviour of mice infected with Trichinella spiralis

Abstract

The behaviour of mice exposed to graded doses of Trichinella spiralis larvae was monitored in an open-field situation. Ambulatory and exploratory activity declined significantly as the infections progressed, whereas the time spent inactive increased concomitantly. The advent of these behavioural changes coincided with the expected release of larvae by the adult worms and showed no clear signs of abating as late as 90 days post-inoculation. The levels of activity were negatively correlated with the inoculating dose. Such behavioural changes may render the host more vulnerable to predation and thus enhance parasite transmission.