Greek: meta = behind, strongylos = cylindric.

Genus of the worldwide occurring nematode family Metastrongylidae, which are lungworms of pigs. In Metastrongylus apri (syn. M. elongatus) the males reach a length of 15–26 mm, while the females measure 35–44 mm. This species is most common and lives in the bronchioles of pigs. The females deposit larvae containing eggs. Often the larvae occur already in the faeces. The life cycle is indirect using earthworms as intermediate hosts. The prepatent period is 4–5 weeks long and includes a phase of larval wandering through lymph nodes, heart, and finally lung.  Lungworms,  Nematodes.

About 6–9 months.

 Nematocidal Drugs.