Polar filaments of Myxobolus pseudodispar spores

Spores of Myxobolus pseudodispar from plasmodia occurring in the roach muscles (Rutilus rutilus) were studied by light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, before and after discharge of their polar filaments. Scanning microscopy reveals that discharged polar filaments bear no spines and their walls are slightly folded. Polar filaments of M. pseudodispar have been compared with stinging threads of the parasitic cnidarium Polypodium hydriforme.