Miracidia
Miracidia
Miracidia (pronunciation: mi-ra-ci-di-a) is the free-swimming larval stage of certain parasitic trematodes (flukes). This stage is characterized by its ciliated surface, which aids in its movement and the search for a suitable intermediate host, typically a snail.
Etymology
The term "miracidium" is derived from the Greek words "meira" meaning "part" and "kidion" meaning "little". This refers to the small size of the larva and its role as a part of the life cycle of the parasite.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of a trematode begins with the release of eggs into the environment by the adult parasite. These eggs hatch into miracidia upon contact with water. The miracidia then seek out an intermediate host, penetrate its tissues, and develop into the next larval stage, known as a sporocyst or redia.
Related Terms
- Trematode: A class of parasitic flatworms, also known as flukes.
- Sporocyst: The larval stage following the miracidium in the life cycle of many trematodes.
- Redia: Another larval stage in the life cycle of many trematodes, which follows the sporocyst stage.
- Cercaria: The final larval stage in the life cycle of many trematodes, which follows the redia stage.
See Also
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