Ocurrence of nematode larvae in Achatina fulica Bowdich, 1822 (Gastropoda:Achatinidae) snails in vargem Pequena, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Resumo

This paper reports the occurrence of nematode larvae in the giant African snail Achatina fulica in
Rio de Janeiro City, Brazil. A total of 78 snails was collected in four out of 22 localities in Vargem
Pequena neighborhood between August and December of 2005. In one of the localities (Novo
Horizonte residential complex), two forms of nematode larvae were found, which were unsheathed
and displayed oxyuroid esophagus. The large and stout form is a third-stage larva with a striated
cuticle and a short undulating tail. The small and slender form exhibited esophago-intestinal
and intestinal valves. The prevalence of larval nematodes in A. fulica snails in Vargem Pequena
neighborhood was 4.8%. Additional studies are strongly recommended to identify the nematode
species found and to determine whether this snail species constitutes a public health concern.