The development of the metacestode stages of Arostrilepis microtis (Eucestoda: Hymenolepididae) studied on the basis of an experimental infection of springtails (Collembola: Entomobryidae) is described for the first time. A complete description of the ontogeny from oncosphere to fully a developed metacestode is given. The postembryonic development within the intermediate host includes one invagination. Cysts are without an anterior invagination pore, and the cercomer does not separate after the full maturation of larva. The comparison of morphology and maturation rate of larval cestodes of A. microtis with A. beringiensis and A. tenuicirrosa is presented. Cysticercoids of A. microtis are significantly larger and require a longer period of development than those of A. beringiensis and A. tenuicirrosa.
Keywords: Arostrilepis; Cysticercoids; Hymenolepididae; Intermediate hosts; Larval cestodes; Life cycle; Springtails.