The Cylindrical Worms That Impact Health
Nematelminths also known as nematodes, are invertebrate worms with an elongated and cylindrical body, widely found in different environments, including humid soils, fresh and salt waters, and even as parasites in other living beings.
Features
These worms have a body covered by a resistant cuticle and a complete digestive system, with a mouth and anus. This anatomy allows for greater efficiency in digestion and metabolism compared to flatworms.
Parasitic Species
Many roundworms are parasites and cause serious illnesses in humans and animals, such as:
Roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides): Causes ascariasis, common in areas with poor sanitation.
Hookworms: Associated with "yellowing", they cause severe anemia.
Geographical bug: Larvae that migrate under the skin, causing irritation.
Elephantiasis (filariasis): Transmitted by mosquitoes, can lead to extreme swelling of limbs.
Ecological Importance
Despite their fame as parasites, roundworms play important roles in ecosystems, as decomposers of organic matter and regulators of microorganism populations in the soil.
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