Cestodes are commonly known as which group of parasites?

Cestodes are commonly known as which group of parasites?

• A. Tapeworms
• B. Flukes
• C. Roundworms
• D. Nematodes

Answer: (A)

Cestodes are parasitic flatworms known as tapeworms. They have long, flat bodies composed of repeating segments called proglottids, with a specialized head (scolex) used to attach to the intestinal wall. They lack a digestive system and absorb nutrients directly through their surface, which fits their life in the gut. The name “tapeworms” comes from their ribbon-like, tape- or belt-like appearance. This distinguishes them from flukes (trematodes), which are often leaf-shaped with suckers, and from roundworms (nematodes), which are elongated, cylindrical worms with a complete digestive tract.

Cestodes are parasitic flatworms known as tapeworms. They have long, flat bodies composed of repeating segments called proglottids, with a specialized head (scolex) used to attach to the intestinal wall. They lack a digestive system and absorb nutrients directly through their surface, which fits their life in the gut. The name “tapeworms” comes from their ribbon-like, tape- or belt-like appearance. This distinguishes them from flukes (trematodes), which are often leaf-shaped with suckers, and from roundworms (nematodes), which are elongated, cylindrical worms with a complete digestive tract.