Effect of gamma-irradiation on the survival and development of the infective larvae of the hookworm, Gaigeria pachyscelis.

Irradiation of the infective larvae of Gaigeria pachyscelis Railliet and Henry, 1910 with gamma rays upto 160 Kr had no significant effect on the in vitro survival of these larvae for a period of 49 days, maintained either at room temperature (32.2--39.4 degrees C) or at 4 degrees C. However, the behaviour of the irradiated larvae in the lamb host was much changed, as shown by a marked reduction in the worm establishment and the development of stunted and sterile worms from these larvae. As the level of irradiation increased, there was a corresponding decrease in the subsequent worm establishment. It was found that male larvae are more sensitive to the effects of irradiation than female ones, particularly at higher levels.