Gregarinas do filo apicomplexa encontradas parasitando Gryllus Assimilis

Abstract

Gregarines (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) are common parasites in many invertebrates, including insects, playing a significant role in the ecology of their hosts. This study focused on the presence of gregarines in Gryllus assimilis, from the breeding already established in the entomology laboratory of the Federal University of Fronteira Sul, Laranjeiras do Sul campus – PR, with the purpose of producing flour and its derivatives that can be used in animal and human nutrition. Using dissection and microscopic observation techniques, we investigated the prevalence and distribution of gregarines in different cricket development projects, from children to adults, in comparison between two groups. The results revealed that all stages of developed development (N1, N2 N3, N4, N5) and adults had the presence of gregarines. However, detection varies between advances, being more prevalent in more advanced advances (N5 and adults). The methodology involves collecting Gryllus assimilis from the UFFS Entomology Laboratory, followed by dissection, slide preparation and observations under an optical scope. A comparative morphological analysis of gregarines highlighted the phenotypic plasticity of these parasites, highlighting the complexity of their relationship with the host. The results are positive for understanding the biology of gregarines in arthropods, as well as providing an understanding of possible ecological impacts and implications for insect landscape management. This study expands knowledge about the interaction between protozoan parasites and invertebrate hosts, highlighting the importance of investigations designed to understand the ecology and population dynamics of these organisms in natural and cultivated environments.