Caryophyllaeidae

Caryophyllaeidae is a family of tapeworms belonging to the order Caryophyllidea. This family is characterized by the presence of a single set of reproductive organs in the middle of the body and a lack of a scolex, or head, which is typically found in other tapeworm species. The family Caryophyllaeidae includes several genera, such as Caryophyllaeus, Khawia, and Atractolytocestus.

Taxonomy

The family Caryophyllaeidae was first described by the German zoologist Friedrich August Johannes Lütken in 1883. It is part of the order Caryophyllidea, which is one of the oldest groups of tapeworms, with a fossil record dating back to the Paleozoic era. The order Caryophyllidea includes two families: Caryophyllaeidae and Capingentidae.

Morphology

Members of the Caryophyllaeidae family are characterized by their unique body structure. Unlike most tapeworms, they do not have a scolex, or head, for attachment to the host. Instead, they have a simple cylindrical body with a single set of reproductive organs located in the middle. The body is covered with a tegument, or outer layer, which is used for nutrient absorption.

Life cycle

The life cycle of Caryophyllaeidae involves two hosts. The primary host is usually a fish, where the adult tapeworm resides in the intestine. The secondary host can be a variety of organisms, including annelids and mollusks, where the larval stages develop. The life cycle begins when the eggs are released into the water through the feces of the primary host. The eggs are then ingested by the secondary host, where they hatch and develop into larvae. The larvae are then ingested by the primary host, completing the life cycle.

Genera

The family Caryophyllaeidae includes several genera, including:

• Caryophyllaeus: This genus includes species that are parasites of freshwater fish in Europe and Asia.
• Khawia: This genus includes species that are parasites of carp in Asia.
• Atractolytocestus: This genus includes species that are parasites of carp in Europe.

See also

• List of tapeworms of humans
• Fish diseases and parasites