The ultrastructure of the feeding apparatus and pharyngeal tract of four European species of Trichodoridae (Nematoda: Triplonchida)

Abstract

AbstractVirus-vector plant-parasitic Paratrichodorus and Trichodorus nematodes acquire Tobravirus particles whilst ingesting root cell sap from virus-infected plants and these particles are specifically retained by being adsorbed on to the cuticle lining the wall of the nematode pharyngeal lumen. The feeding apparatus and pharyngeal ultrastructure of four trichodorid virus-vector species were examined to identify the occurrence of any structural characters that could account for particle retention at specific sites in this region. Similarities between Paratrichodorus and Trichodorus species are reported for the first time and new evidence is provided on the position of all gland sinuses and outlets. The occurrence of an inner spear in adult specimens is discussed.