Epidemiology and genetic variability of two species of nematodes (Heligmosomoides polygyrus and Syphacia stroma) of Apodemus spp.

The epidemiology and genetic variability of 2 parasitic nematodes Heligmosomoides polygyrus and Syphacia stroma of Apodemus spp. were investigated. Both are parasites of the same host, exhibit a direct life-cycle and are dioecious. However, H. polygyrus has a diploid and S. stroma a haplodiploid mode of reproduction. Haplodiploidy may lead to a more female biased sex ratio and reduced genetic variability. Levels of genetic diversity were analysed using both isoenzyme electrophoresis and RAPDs (random amplified polymorphic DNA). Both parasites showed a female biased sex ratio with a stronger bias for the haplodiploid parasite. Results showed significantly fewer genetic polymorphisms as measured by RAPDs for the haplodiploid parasite S. stroma in comparison with H. polygyrus. Despite the observed female biased sex ratio this could not be explained by a significant amount of inbreeding. Heterozygote deficiency for individual allozyme loci--which could indicate inbreeding--was not found in either parasite species. Other features of the particular life-history of these species are likely to have an impact on the sex ratio and genetic variability too.