Aspidogastrea

Aspidogastrea is a subclass of trematodes, a class of parasitic flatworms. This subclass is characterized by a unique adhesive disc structure, which is used to attach to the host organism. Aspidogastrea is a small group, with only about 80 known species.

Morphology

Morphology of an Aspidogastrea species

Aspidogastreans are typically small, ranging from 1 to 30 mm in length. They have a flat, elongated body shape, similar to other trematodes. The most distinctive feature of Aspidogastrea is the large ventral adhesive disc, which is divided into small alveoli. This disc is used to attach to the host organism.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Aspidogastrea is not well understood. It is believed that they have a direct life cycle, with no intermediate hosts. The adult worms live in the digestive tract of the host, where they lay eggs. The eggs are then passed out of the host in the feces.

Hosts

Aspidogastreans are parasitic on a wide range of hosts, including mollusks, fish, and turtles. Some species are also known to infect crustaceans and echinoderms.

Taxonomy

Aspidogastrea is a subclass within the class Trematoda. It is divided into two orders: Aspidogastrida and Stichocotylida. The order Aspidogastrida includes the families Aspidogastridae and Rugogastridae, while the order Stichocotylida includes the family Stichocotylidae.

See also

• Trematoda
• Parasitology

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