Q. 2. Write a note on the effects of parasitism on Monocystis and on an earthworm.
Ans.2. Effect of Parasitism on Monocystis
Monocystis is an endoparasite in the seminal vesicles of earthworms. It shows the following parasitic adaptations :
1. Its structure is very simple.
2. It is without cytosome, cytopyge, oral groove, etc.
3. It absorbs predigested cytoplasm of the host sperm morula.
4. Locomotory organs are absent. It exhibits slow wriggling movement.
5. There is no osmoregulation and so contractile vacuole is also absent.
6. Life-cycle involves resistant spores which can be transmitted from one host to another. (BSc 1st Year Lower Non-chordates Monocystis Sample Model Practice Question Answer Papers
7. Spores are produced in large numbers.
Effect of Monocystis on Host (Earthworm)
The host is not much affected by the presence of Monocystis in its seminal vesicle, except that parasite inhibits the development or maturation of spermatogonia. Therefore, earthworm becomes sterile or semi sterile.
BSc 1st Year Lower Non-chordates Monocystis Sample Model Practice Question Answer Papers
BSc 1st Year Lower Non-chordates Monocystis Sample Model Practice Question Answer Papers
BSc 1st Year Sample Model Practice Mock Test Question Answer Papers