Davaineidae

Davaineidae

Raillietina tetragona, a species within the Davaineidae family

The Davaineidae is a family of parasitic cestodes (tapeworms) that primarily infect birds and mammals. This family is part of the order Cyclophyllidea, which is characterized by having a scolex with four suckers and a rostellum that may or may not have hooks.

Morphology

Members of the Davaineidae family are distinguished by their small to medium-sized bodies, which are segmented into proglottids. The scolex, or head, of these tapeworms typically features a rostellum armed with hooks, which aids in attachment to the host's intestinal wall. The proglottids contain both male and female reproductive organs, allowing for self-fertilization.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Davaineidae tapeworms involves two hosts. The adult tapeworm resides in the intestine of a definitive host, usually a bird or mammal. Eggs are released into the environment through the host's feces. These eggs are then ingested by an intermediate host, often an insect or other invertebrate, where they develop into larval forms known as cysticercoids. The definitive host becomes infected by ingesting the intermediate host containing the cysticercoids.

Pathogenicity

Infections with Davaineidae tapeworms can lead to a condition known as cestodiasis. Symptoms in the definitive host may include digestive disturbances, weight loss, and in severe cases, intestinal blockage. The severity of the infection often depends on the number of tapeworms present and the overall health of the host.

Genera

The Davaineidae family includes several genera, with some of the most notable being:

• Raillietina - This genus includes species such as Raillietina tetragona, which is commonly found in poultry.
• Davainea - Known for infecting domestic fowl and other birds.
• Amoebotaenia - Typically found in pigeons and other birds.

Control and Treatment

Controlling Davaineidae infections involves managing the environment to reduce exposure to intermediate hosts. This can include improving sanitation and controlling insect populations. Treatment of infected animals often involves the use of anthelmintic drugs, which are effective in eliminating adult tapeworms from the host's intestine.

Related Pages

• Cestoda
• Cyclophyllidea
• Parasitic diseases