EN
Parastrongyloides trichosuri Mackerras, 1959 is one of the most common parasites of Australian possum Trichosurus vulpecula and is considered a candidate for biological control of brushtail possums in New Zealand. Infective larvae of P. trichosuri penetrate the skin of possums and develop in the small intestine into males and females. Adult females produce eggs giving rise to free-living males and females. In most cases the progeny of the free-living adults develop into filariform infective larvae. Frequent aeration of faecal cultures and a temperature range of 23-26°C seems to be important for the development of free-living adults and filariform infective larvae. Infective larvae have limited ability to migrate and do not survive long when exposed to sun or dessication. They avoid intensive light but respond positively to dispersed light. Infective larvae responded positively to increased (up to 39°C) temperature and water movement.