Effects of digenean larval infection on metallic ions of the shells and soft parts of their intermediate host snail Lanistes carinatus.

Concentrations of nine metallic ions (Fe, Cu, Zn, Na, Mg, K, Pb, Mn & Ca) in the shells and digestive gland gonad complex (DGG) of Lanistes carinatus, naturally infected with two digenean larvae (Gymnocephalus and ocellate xiphideocercariae) were quantitatively analyzed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). All individuals were collected from the same site at the River Nile, Sohag Governorate. The results showed a significant increase in Fe, Zn, Cu & Mn ions of infected L. carinatus DGG. However, three elements; Na, Mg & K were non-significantly lower in infected compared with noninfected snails. Regarding Calcium content in the shells and DGG of the snails, there was a significant increase in infected compared with non-infected snails. The results of Ca analysis supported the hypothesis of hypercalcification.