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Table 5 Major filarioid nematodes affecting dogs and cats: differential features (derived from Refs 106 and 131) of microfilariae found in blood samples by Knott's examination.

From: Canine and feline cardiopulmonary parasitic nematodes in Europe: emerging and underestimated

Species

Length (μm)

Width (μm)

Posterior end

Anterior end

Dirofilaria immitis

260-340

5-7.5

Straight and thin

Gently tapered

Dirofilaria repens

325-380

5-8

Umbrella-like

Blunt

Acanthocheilonema reconditum

240-290

4.5-5.5

Button-hooked

Blunt, with a prominent cephalic hook