Carbohydrate metabolism parameters in the thick-billed murre (Uria lomvia) infested with Alcataenia armillaris (Cestoda: Dilepididae)

Some aspects of carbohydrate metabolism in noninfested thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia) and those infested with the tapeworm Alcataenia armillaris (Cestoda: Dilepididae) are reported. The findings demonstrate that the intestinal invasion by A. armillaris causes a drop in the activity of digestive enzymes (glycosidases and sacharase) and decreases blood glucose levels and glycogen content in the liver. The main reasons underlying changes in avian carbohydrate metabolism in cestode invasion are suggested.