Functional morphology and surface topography of Leucochloridium sp. (Digenea), revealed by scanning electron microscopy

A detailed study on macro- and microtopography, body form and tegument architecture, of Leucochloridium sp. has been carried out by SEM. Three types of sensory structures (presumed) have been distinguished on body tegument: a domed aciliate papillae, pits and depressions in the body surface. The distribution of these is described and their function discussed. Both single-and multipointed spines were found. The development, size, shape and distribution of these are described and also discussed in relation to functional morphology. These results on tegument topography of Leucochloridium sp. revealed by SEM, have also been compared with the existing, scattered information on this topic on other species of Leucochloridiidae.