Porocephalidae

A family of parasitic arthropods known as tongue worms

Overview

Porocephalus crotali, a member of the Porocephalidae family

The Porocephalidae is a family of parasitic arthropods belonging to the order Pentastomida, commonly known as tongue worms. These organisms are characterized by their elongated, worm-like bodies and their parasitic lifestyle, primarily infecting the respiratory systems of reptiles and occasionally mammals.

Morphology

Members of the Porocephalidae family exhibit a distinct morphology that includes a segmented body and a mouth surrounded by hooks, which they use to attach to the host's tissues. The body is typically divided into a head, neck, and trunk, with the head bearing the mouth and hooks.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Porocephalidae involves multiple hosts. The adult parasites reside in the respiratory tracts of their definitive hosts, which are usually reptiles such as snakes. Eggs are expelled from the host through respiratory secretions and are ingested by intermediate hosts, often small mammals or other reptiles. Inside the intermediate host, the larvae hatch and migrate to the tissues, where they encyst. When the intermediate host is consumed by a definitive host, the larvae develop into adults, completing the cycle.

Hosts and Distribution

Porocephalidae are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, where their reptilian hosts are abundant. They have been documented in various species of snakes, lizards, and occasionally in mammals, including humans, where they can cause a condition known as pentastomiasis.

Medical Significance

In humans, infection by Porocephalidae can lead to pentastomiasis, a condition that may cause respiratory symptoms, abdominal pain, and other systemic effects depending on the location of the larvae. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques and serological tests, and treatment may involve surgical removal of the parasites or antiparasitic medications.

Related pages

• Pentastomida
• Parasitic diseases
• Reptile anatomy