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Graffilla pugetensis n. sp. is a parasitic rhabdocoel in the pericardial cavity of the bent-nose clam, Macoma nasuta. Approximately 12% of clams collected at False Bay, San Juan Island, Washington were found infected. The parasite swims in the pericardial fluid. This is the second known report of a species of Graffilla in North America. Large frontal glands are described for the first time in the genus Graffilla. The frontal glands, shell glands, basement membrane of the epidermis and epithelium of the pharynx and vestibule contain complex polysaccharides. The frontal glands also contain acid mucopolysaccharides. The germaria, muscles of the pharynx, epidermal cells and vitellaria contain glycogen. The vitellaria also contain lipid. A key to the species of Graffilla is provided. |
