Nematode larvae in fossilized animal coprolites from lower and middle Pleistocene sites, central Italy

J Parasitol. 1993 Jun;79(3):440-2.

Abstract

Nematode larvae were found in mineralized animal coprolites collected in lower and middle Pleistocene sites, central Italy. Coprolites collected in 4 paleontological sites dated from 1.5 million years to 30,000 years ago were identified as of Hyaenidae (Mammalia, Carnivora). Checklists available for present-day Hyaenidae did not permit identification of the larvae found. This is one of the most ancient parasite findings in coprolites.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carnivora / parasitology*
  • Feces / parasitology*
  • Fossils*
  • History, Ancient
  • Italy
  • Nematoda / isolation & purification*
  • Nematode Infections / history*
  • Nematode Infections / veterinary*