Trematode
Trematode
Trematodes (pronounced: treh-muh-tohdz), also known as flukes, are a class of parasitic flatworms belonging to the phylum Platyhelminthes. The term "trematode" comes from the Greek word "trematos", meaning "hole", and "eidos", meaning "form" or "shape", referring to the ventral and oral suckers that these parasites possess.
Etymology
The term "trematode" is derived from the Greek words "trematos" (τρηματος) meaning "hole" and "eidos" (εἶδος) meaning "form" or "shape". This refers to the characteristic ventral and oral suckers that these parasites possess.
Life Cycle
Trematodes have complex life cycles that involve multiple hosts. The primary host, where the trematodes reach maturity and reproduce, is usually a vertebrate, such as a human or a livestock animal. The intermediate hosts are usually snails.
Classification
Trematodes are classified into two orders: Digenea and Aspidogastrea. Digenea is the larger and more diverse group, with about 80% of all trematode species. Aspidogastrea, on the other hand, is a smaller group with about 200 known species.
Medical Significance
Trematodes are of significant medical and veterinary importance as they can cause diseases such as schistosomiasis, fascioliasis, and clonorchiasis. These diseases are typically contracted through contact with water contaminated with the larval forms of the trematode.
Related Terms
- Parasitology: The study of parasites and their hosts.
- Helminthology: The study of parasitic worms (helminths).
- Schistosomiasis: A disease caused by a type of trematode.
- Fascioliasis: A disease caused by a type of trematode.
- Clonorchiasis: A disease caused by a type of trematode.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Trematode
- Wikipedia's article - Trematode
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