Histological and ultrastructural observations on the secondary scolex and strobila of Haplobothrium globuliforme (Cestoda: Haplobothrioidea)
The strobila attached to the primary scolex of Haplobothrium globuliforme fragments to produce numerous secondary scolices. These secondary scolices develop mature and gravid proglottides. The secondary scolex consists of four shallow disclike bothria which surround a raised apical area. The tegument bears small microtriches, 0.6 μm long, and the tegumental cytoplasm is filled with electron-dense discs and mitochondria. Ducts filled with electron-dense secretory bodies were seen in the scolex and occasionally were seen to fuse with the tegument. The tegument of the neck region is similar to that of the scolex. More posteriorly, the strobilar tegument bears elongated, uniform microtriches, 1.2–1.5 μm long with pronounced electron-dense tips. The anterior-most proglottides, attached to the secondary scolex, each terminate in four skirtlike appendages. The inner, posterior surfaces of these appendages bear robust, clublike microtriches or spines. Adjacent to these microtriches secretory ducts release electron-dense secretory bodies to the surface of the tegument. It is suggested that these appendages may function as accessory adhesive organs.