CESTODA Meaning and
Definition
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Cestoda is a class of parasitic flatworms that belongs to the phylum Platyhelminthes. These organisms are commonly known as tapeworms. They are characterized by their long and segmented body, divided into proglottids. Cestodes have a complex life cycle, involving intermediate hosts such as arthropods and vertebrates.
The body of a tapeworm is usually composed of a scolex, which is the anterior attachment organ that allows them to attach to the host's intestine, and numerous segmented proglottids that develop behind it. Each proglottid contains male and female reproductive organs, allowing it to reproduce independently from other segments. This unique feature is referred to as polyembryony.
Tapeworms are endoparasites, meaning they live inside their host's body. They mainly inhabit the digestive system of vertebrates, including humans, where they obtain their nutrients by absorbing them through their skin.
In terms of their impact on human health, cestodes can cause diseases known as cestodiasis. These infections can result in a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies. Some species of tapeworms can also reach a considerable size, potentially causing blockages and other complications in the host's intestines.
Due to their parasitic nature and potential harm to humans and animals, the study of cestodes is essential for the field of parasitology and epidemiology. Researchers aim to understand their life cycle, transmission patterns, and develop effective control methods to prevent and treat cestodiasis.
Common Misspellings for CESTODA
- xestoda
- vestoda
- festoda
- destoda
- cwstoda
- csstoda
- cdstoda
- crstoda
- c4stoda
- c3stoda
- ceatoda
- ceztoda
- cextoda
- cedtoda
- ceetoda
- cewtoda
- cesroda
- cesfoda
- cesgoda
Etymology of CESTODA
The word "cestoda" comes from the Greek words "kests" meaning "girdle" or "belt" and "odos" meaning "path" or "way". It was coined by the German zoologist Rudolf Leuckart in 1863 to describe a class of parasitic worms known as tapeworms belonging to the Phylum Platyhelminthes. The name "cestoda" refers to the flattened, ribbon-like shape of tapeworms, which resembles a girdle or belt.
Similar spelling words for CESTODA
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