Trichinella nativa is a nematodeworm, one of the species of the Trichinella genus, found in arctic and subarctic regions. It is highly pathogenic and has a high resistance to freezing. It is encapsulated, and infects a wide variety of mammals and birds. Its lifecycle and pathogenesis are similar to Trichinella spiralis; T. nativa also can cause trichinellosis. This nematode infects the muscles of mammals such as the Arctic fox and the polar bear. To complete its lifecycle, the flesh of its host must be eaten by some other mammal. In the Arctic, the corpses of animals that die may get frozen and later be consumed by scavengers. This worm remains viable even after being frozen at −18 °C for four years. Order: Trichocephalida, Family: Trichinellidae, Genus: Trichinella, Species: Trichinella nativa.
