Chapter 20 Cestoidea: Form, Function, and Classification of Tapeworms

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and definitions related to the form, function, and classification of tapeworms (Cestoidea) as discussed in Chapter 20.

Scolex

Point of attachment to host tissue with a variety of holdfast organs.

Acetabula

Cup-shaped suckers found on the scolex.

Bothridia

Muscular leafy-like suckers found on the scolex in groups of four.

Bothria

Grooves that serve as holdfasts on the scolex.

Apical organs

Structures that aid in tissue invasion and the development of neck cells.

Neck

Contains stem cells that are responsible for the production of new proglottids.

Strobila

A linear series of maturing and reproductive proglottids.

Monozoic

Refers to tapeworms with one proglottid.

Polyzoic

Refers to tapeworms with multiple proglottids.

Self fertilization (cirus in vaginates)

Method of fertilization where the cirus penetrates the female reproductive structure.

Self fertilization (cirus evaginates)

Method of fertilization where the cirus evaginates to fertilize eggs.

Mating with another worm

Method of fertilization involving two tapeworms.

Apolysis

Process where segments empty internally but remain attached.

Anapolysis

Segments release eggs but remain attached to the strobila.

Hyperapolysis

Immature proglottids break off and mature independently, releasing eggs.

Microtriches

Finger-like projections that increase surface area for metabolic function.

Glycocalyx functions

Nutrient transport pathways and resistance to host enzymes and immune cells.

Larval stages

Stages in the life cycle including egg, oncosphere, coracidium, and metacestode development.

Excystment stimulation

Conditions in the host digestive system such as digestive enzymes that trigger the process.