First record of parasitism of a Mermithidae (Nematoda) on Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Col: Chrysomelidae) in Turkey.

摘要

Mermithid parasitism has been reported on different insects all over the world. During studies on Leptinotarsa decemlineata, 1000 beetles were collected from Persembe/Ordu and examined for nematode parasitism. One beetle was found infested with mermithids. This is the first record of mermithid parasitism in one of the most important beetle in Turkey. Ten mermithid juveniles were recorded in one mature L. decemlineata. Infected beetles' body colour was darker and dim, and movement was slower than the others. Abdomen of infected insect was swollen and cuticle beneath the wings disappeared. Detailed taxonomic studies of a mermithid recovered from L. decemlineata have not been done due to lack of fully matured specimens, however identification was made up to genus Hexamermis..