Identification of Strongylus spp.

Identification:

Gross:

·         Robust dark red worms which are easily seen against the intestinal mucosa.

·         The well developed buccal cap­sule of the adult parasite is prominent.

Microscopic:

·         Species differentiation is based on size and the pres­ence and shape of the teeth in the base of the buccal capsule.

Species	Length	Identification
Strongylus vulgaris	1.5-2.5cm	Two ear-shaped rounded teeth
S. edentates	2.5-4.5 cm	No teeth
S. equines	2.5-5.0cm	Three conical teeth. One is situated dorsally and is larger than the others and bifid