Helminth parasites of alcids in the northwestern North Atlantic

Abstract

One thousand and one alcids of six species (Alca torda, Uria aalge, Uria lomvia, Plautus alle, Cepphus grylle, Fratercula arctica) were collected in the northwestern North Atlantic, during the period June, 1966 – September, 1969, and examined for parasites. Helminths belonging to 12 genera were recovered, the common murre (U. aalge) containing the greatest number of species. Statistically significant annual variations (P < 005) in the parasite burden of this species were noted. No differences in intensity of infection in male and female birds and in chicks and adults were detected. Twelve new host records are noted.