Scolex (head) of a pork tapeworm, Taenia solium
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Scolex (head) of a pork tapeworm, Taenia solium
Tapeworm head. Light micrograph of the scolex (head) of the adult pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. At top is a rosette of hooks; at lower left and right are rounded suckers. The hooks and suckers are the means by which the tapeworm attaches itself to the intestinal walls of its host. Humans are the main host of this parasite, which infects some 4 million people worldwide. Tapeworms have no digestive systems of their own but absorb directly through their skin the food ingested and broken down by the host. Adult tapeworms may grow 5-10 metres in length. They may cause diarrhoea, weight loss, abdominal discomfort. Treatment is with ant- helmintic drugs. Magnification: x32 at 6x6cm size
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Media ID 6470589
© PASIEKA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Flat Worm Parasite Platyhelminthes Pork Scolex Tape Worm Light Micrograph Taenia Solium
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate and somewhat eerie details of a Scolex, or head, of a pork tapeworm known as Taenia solium. The light micrograph reveals the remarkable structure of this parasite's scolex, with a prominent rosette of hooks at the top and rounded suckers on both sides. These hooks and suckers serve as vital tools for the tapeworm to firmly attach itself to the intestinal walls of its human host. With humans being the primary host for this parasitic creature, it is alarming to learn that approximately 4 million people worldwide are infected by it. Growing up to an astonishing length of 5-10 meters, adult tapeworms can cause various health issues such as diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal discomfort in their unfortunate hosts. Interestingly enough, these peculiar organisms lack their own digestive systems but instead absorb nutrients directly through their skin from the food ingested by their hosts. Thankfully, treatment options involving ant-helmintic drugs exist to combat these infections. The magnified view provided in this image allows us to appreciate both the complexity and adaptability displayed by nature's creatures. It serves as a reminder that even within seemingly harmless organisms like worms lie hidden dangers that can profoundly impact our well-being if left unchecked.
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