Shell colour polymorphism, injuries and immune defense in three helicid snail species, Cepaea hortensis, Theba pisana and Cornu aspersum maximum.

Abstract

Shell colour polymorphism is a widespread feature of various land snail species. In our study we aimed at elucidating the question whether there is a correlation between shell colouration and immune defense in three land snail species by comparing phenoloxidase (PO) activity levels of different morphs after immunostimulation via Zymosan A-injection. Since phenoloxidase is involved both in immune defense as well as in melanin production, the PO activity level is particularly interesting when trying to resolve this question. Even though Zymosan A failed to induce PO activity rendering a comparison of inducible PO activity impossible, an interesting difference between pale and dark morphs of all tested species could be observed: dark snails were less affected by hemolymph withdrawal and were able to maintain or regenerate a significantly higher PO activity level after hemolymph withdrawal than pale snails. Possible implications of this observation are discussed.

• Authors: Alexandra E Scheil, Stefanie Hilsmann, Rita Triebskorn, Heinz-R Köhler
• Journal: Results in immunology (Results Immunol) Vol. 3 Pg. 73-8 ( 2013) ISSN: 2211-2839 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 24600561 (Publication Type: Journal Article)