Figure 3-8. Dwarf tapeworm (Hymenolepis diminuta) cycle of transmission.
Section III. FLUKE (TREMATODES) DISEASES
3-8.
CHARACTERISTICS
Flukes or trematodes are flatworms which are internal or external parasites in
humans and animals. There are about 6,000 species of flukes in the world. They range
in size from 5 mm (0.2 inches) to several centimeters. Most are not longer than 100
millimeters (4 inches). The most distinctive external feature of the fluke is the suckers
or acetabula used by the worm to attach itself to another animal, the host. Most flukes
have a sucker around the mouth and another along the back. A few have a third sucker
near the posterior end.
Figure 3-9. Flukes.
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