Exploring the anatomy of Linguatula serrata using micro-computed tomography

Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is an emerging tool in parasitology that can assist in analysing morphology and host-parasitic interactions. It is a non-destructive, cross-sectional imaging technique that offers good resolution and the ability to create three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions. Here, we used micro-CT to study <i>Linguatula serrata</i>, which is a zoonotic pentastome parasite that infects dogs and ruminants throughout the world. The aims of this study were to describe the internal and external anatomy of adult <i>L. serrata</i> specimens using micro-CT, and to describe and compare specimens stained with 0.3% phosphotungstic acid (PTA) and 1% iodine (I₂). Ten adult <i>L.</i> <i>serrata</i> specimens were subjected to micro-CT examination. The specimens were fixed in 70% ethanol and stained with 0.3% PTA or 1% I₂. Both stains offered good tissue contrast. The main identifying external features of <i>L. serrata</i> (hooks, mouth, buccal cadre) were clearly visible. Virtual sections and 3D reconstructions provided a good overview of the coelomic cavity, with visualisation of the digestive tract, nervous system, and male and female reproductive organs. These micro-CT images and morphological descriptions may serve as an anatomical reference for <i>L. serrata</i>, in particular, the internal anatomy which has not been described in recent years.