GNATHOSTOMA MIYAZAKII N. SP. FROM THE OTTER (LUTRA C. CANADENSIS) WITH COMMENTS ON G. SOCIALE (LEIDY, 1858) OF MINK (MUSTELA VISON)

Abstract

Gnathostoma miyasakii n. sp. from the kidneys of Lutra c. canadensis in Ontario, Canada, is mainly distinguished from other members of the genus by the presence of a terminal digitiform appendage in the male, and a relatively long, tapering tail in the female. In addition, the male caudal extremity has rows of tiny bosses rather than spines; the posterior part of the female body lacks spines; the eggs have a thickening at one pole only; and the vulva is a short distance anterior to the anus. Specimens of G. social, some identified by Leidy, are briefly described. G. sociale is evidently close to G. spinigerum but more study will be necessary before its status can be clarified further.