The structure of the egg-shell of Aspiculuris tetraptera Schulz (Nematoda: Oxyuroidea)

Abstract

The egg of Aspiculuris tetraptera is an ellipsoid measuring 93 × 40 µm. The shell consists of 5 layers: the external uterine layer, internal uterine layer, vitelline layer, chitinous layer and the lipid layer. This nomenclature is based upon the formation and histochemistry of the shell layers. The internal uterine layer contains a system of interconnecting spaces, partly filled by uterine secretion, which open to the exterior of the egg via breaks in the external uterine layer. The surface of the egg is covered by a system of interconnecting grooves. Freeze-etching reveals that the internal uterine layer is open to the exterior via pores, which open into the grooves. Rod-shaped particles are also revealed in the external uterine layer. The operculum of the egg consists of a modification of the uterine and chitinous layers of the shell.