Physocephalus sexalatus: Thick stomach worm.

General Description: These are small filiform nematodes slightly red and with an oral cavity surrounded by a heavy thickening of the wall in form of a row of rings. Adults of this species reach from 6 to 22.5mm in length. The eggs are thick shelled and embryonated when laid.

Life Cycle: The eggs are passed in the faeces and are ingested by beetles. The first stage larvae hatch in the beetle's intestine and develop up to the third stage larvae which is infective for the pig. When the infected beetle is ingested by a pig, the L3 continues its development to the adult stage.

Location: The mucus layers of the stomach mucosa.

Geographical Distribution: Worldwide.

Significance: Cause little damage unless present in large numbers

Effect on Host: When present in large numbers these parasites can produce inflammation catarrhal gastritis and ulcerations.

Diagnostic Information: Characteristic eggs in the faeces or adults in the stomach at necropsy are diagnostic.

Control: Manure removal to eliminate coprophagous belts.

Anterior		Haemorrhagic gastritis Physocphallus sp.