Seasonal population dynamics of Paraquimpevia tenevvima (Linstow) (Nematoda) in the European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus) in three localities of southwest England

Seasonal population dynamics of Puraquzmperia tenerrima (Linstow) in the European eel Anguillu anguillu (Linnaeus) have been investigated in three localities in Devon, southwest England. The nematode is common and exhibits very similar seasonal patterns in changes of prevalence and abundance in the three localities. The population increases over winter through to late spring or early summer as the recruitment of the new generation occurs throughout this period. Reproduction of the nematode starts in spring. A sharp decrease of prevalence and abundance accompanies or follows reproduction, and infection levels are very low in autumn and early winter. The dispersion pattern of the nematode varies with the infection levels from over-dispersion in spring and early summer to almost random dispersion in autumn and winter. It is suggested that P. tenerrimu is a common specific parasite of eels, especially in small streams or rivers and that insect larvae or species of crustaceans might serve as intermediate hosts for the nematode.