The Macropodid Oesophagus IV. Observations on the Protozoan Fauna of the Macropodid Stomach and Oesophagus

Abstract

Holotrich ciliates are recorded from the stomach and oesophagus of 10 species of herbivorous macropod (Maeropus agilis, M. dorsalis, M. eugenii, M. fuliginosus, M. giganteus, M. parryi, M. parma, M. rufus, Wallabia bieolor and Thylogale billardierii). No flagellated or entodinomorph protozoa were found. Small amoeboid protozoa are also recorded from the stomach and oesophagus of M. giganteus, M. rufus and W. bieolor. The findings are discussed in relation to the environment of the macropodid stomach.