Biology ETDs

Publication Date

5-17-1971

Abstract

Panagrellus redivivoides (T. Goodey, 1943) T. Goodey, 1945 was found associated with the "Albuquerque-wild" strain of Drosophila melanogaster. The nematode species was redescribed, noting differences from published description in body length, postvulval sac structure, and distal bifurcation of the gubernaculum. The nematode-fly association was maintained by periodic fly subculturing. However, the nematodes are nonparasitic and can be sustained independently of the flies, without statistically significant differences in body measurements, at 22 Con standard cornmeal-agar medium seeded with live yeast which serves as food for the microbivorous nematodes. Statistically significant differences in body measurements were noted with nematodes feeding on excess yeast which probably furnished additional quantities of possible growth factors. Panagrellus redivivoides exhibits negative geotaxis and surface oscillation which increase the nematode-fly contact. The ectosymbiotic phoretic relationship between the fruit fly and the nematode involves nematodes in all stages of development being carried in aggregates of five to 15 nematodes on the pleural surface of both sexes of the fly. Nematodes are incapable of surviving desiccation at 22 C in experimental situations on microscope slides for periods of 45 min or longer. The presence of colloids adhering to the nematodes and the ovoviviparous nature of the female are shown to be of marked survival value for the species.

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

Clarence Clayton Hoff

Second Committee Member

Donald Walter Duszynski

Third Committee Member

John W. Beakley

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