Cestodes

Definition

Cestodes, also known as tapeworms, are a class of parasitic flatworms that reside in the digestive tracts of vertebrates. They acquire nutrients by absorbing them directly through their skin.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cestodes lack a digestive system and absorb nutrients through their tegument.
2. The most common human-infecting cestodes include Taenia solium (pork tapeworm) and Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm).
3. Infection typically occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food or water containing larval cysts.
4. Adult cestodes can grow to several meters in length and consist of multiple segments called proglottids.
5. Diagnosis often involves identifying eggs or segments in stool samples.

Review Questions

• What is the primary method by which cestodes obtain nutrients?
• Name two common species of cestodes that infect humans.
• How are cestode infections typically diagnosed?

Related terms

Proglottid: Segment of a tapeworm containing both male and female reproductive organs.

Scolex: The head of a tapeworm, equipped with suckers or hooks for attachment.

Tegument: The outer body covering of parasitic flatworms that facilitates nutrient absorption.