A microscopical view of the intestine of Onychochaeta borincana (Oligochaeta : Glossoscolecidae)

摘要

Scanning electron microscopy was used to detect the presence of microorganisms in the intestinal surface of Onychochaeta borincana. The intestines of fourteen adult specimens were extracted, washed, and prepared for microscopy protocol. The presence of segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) and rod-shaped bacteria (RSB) were observed in the fore, mid, and hindgut wall of all samples. SFBs and RSBs appeared to be more abundant in the midgut. Spore-like segments were only present in the hindgut. A non-characterized network of filaments was also observed exclusively in the posterior part of the gut. SFBs appear to be attached to gut walls and are probably indigenous.