Roundworms - Structure and Ecology
Kingdom Animalia - Phylum Nematoda
Nematodes are a diverse group of roundworms that exist in nearly every environment on Earth. They can be found in soil, water, and even as parasites in plants and animals.
While some nematodes are free-living and contribute positively to ecosystems by aiding in nutrient recycling and controlling other organisms like bacteria, others are parasitic. Parasitic nematodes can infect plants, animals, and even humans, causing diseases and various health issues.
Nematodes have a simple body structure with a complete digestive system and a nervous system, but they lack circulatory and respiratory systems.
Roundworms & Disease
Trichinosis (trichinella worm)
- cysts within the muscles are consumed (undercooked food)
-- worm grows in intestine
-- forms cysts in the muscles of the new host
-- symptom: terrible pain in muscles
Filarial
Worms - found in Tropical regions of Asia
-- usually transmitted by mosquitoes
-- causes elephantiasis
Ascarid Worms (common roundworm)
- lives in intestine
- eggs are passed out in the feces
Hookworms
- burrow into the skin from
soil
- mature in the intestines
--hooks used to attach and suck blood
Related Documents
Animallike Protists and Disease