The penetration of Fascioloides magna miracidia into the snail host Fossaria bulimoides. A scanning electron microscope study.

Snails of the species Fossaria bulimoides were exposed to miracidia of Fascioloides magna for given periods of time. The course of penetration was followed by means of scanning electron microscopy. Topographical features of the miracidial morphology were studied; the apical organ, epidermal plates and their shedding, and body shapes during penetration. Preliminary data were obtained concerning the nature of the lesions formed by the miracidia. Inferences were drawn concerning the mode and duration of penetration.