Tongue worm

Tongue Worm is a common name for the parasitic crustaceans of the order Pentastomida. These organisms are known for their worm-like appearance and their unique life cycle, which involves a host organism.

Taxonomy

The order Pentastomida is divided into two families: Cephalobaenida and Porocephalida. There are approximately 130 known species of tongue worms.

Morphology

Tongue worms are characterized by their elongated, worm-like bodies. They lack appendages in their adult form, and their body is divided into an anterior part, which contains the mouth and hook-like structures, and a posterior part, which contains the reproductive organs.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the tongue worm involves two hosts. The primary host, where the tongue worm reaches maturity, is typically a carnivorous mammal. The intermediate host, where the larvae develop, is usually a herbivorous mammal or a reptile.

Human Infection

Human infection with tongue worms, a condition known as Pentastomiasis, is rare but can occur if humans consume raw or undercooked meat from infected intermediate hosts. Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the parasite in the body.

Treatment

Treatment for Pentastomiasis typically involves the surgical removal of the parasite. In some cases, antiparasitic drugs may also be used.

See Also

• Parasitic diseases
• Crustaceans
• Zoonotic diseases