Bothria
Bothria (pronunciation: /ˈbɒθriə/; etymology: from Greek bothrion, meaning "small pit") is a term used in Parasitology to refer to the two longitudinal grooves or slits that are found on the scolex (head) of certain species of tapeworms. These grooves function as attachment organs, allowing the tapeworm to anchor itself to the host's intestinal wall.
Structure and Function
The bothria are elongated, slit-like depressions that run longitudinally on the scolex. They are lined with microtriches, tiny hair-like structures that increase the surface area for absorption. The bothria can expand and contract, enabling the tapeworm to attach and detach from the host's intestinal wall. This is crucial for the survival of the parasite, as it allows it to remain in the host's gut where it feeds and reproduces.
Species with Bothria
Not all species of tapeworms have bothria. They are characteristic of the order Pseudophyllidea, which includes species such as Diphyllobothrium latum, the broad fish tapeworm, and Spirometra mansonoides, the American spirometrid tapeworm. In these species, the bothria run the length of the scolex and are often the primary means of attachment to the host.
Related Terms
- Scolex: The head of a tapeworm, which contains the organs of attachment.
- Cestoda: The class of parasitic worms commonly known as tapeworms.
- Pseudophyllidea: An order of tapeworms characterized by the presence of bothria.
- Diphyllobothrium latum: A species of tapeworm that uses bothria for attachment.
- Spirometra mansonoides: Another species of tapeworm with bothria.
See Also
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