Development. The female worm deposits eggs in the intestine of the host.Each egg contains a two- to eight-segmented embryo, which is then passed in the feces. Assuming the embryo reaches suitable soil, it grows and hatches in 24 to 48 hours as an immature, noninfective larva.
How does a hook worm reproduce?
Adult hookworms in the intestines lay eggs that are passed out of the body through feces. Once in the environment, the eggs hatch into larvae. Larvae enter a new host's body by penetrating the skin. Preferred hosts can also be infected by swallowing hookworm larvae, such as by eating contaminated dirt.
What is the life cycle of hookworms?
Eggs are passed in the stool , and under favorable conditions (moisture, warmth, shade), larvae hatch in 1 to 2 days. The released rhabditiform larvae grow in the feces and/or the soil , and after 5 to 10 days (and two molts) they become filariform (third-stage) larvae that are infective .
How many eggs do hookworms lay?
Both males and females attach to the intestinal walls during their life span, but the male leaves at one point to search for a female to mate with. The average female life span is about one year, during which it may lay from 10,000-30,000 eggs a day during its adult life.
What do hookworms feed on in the body?
Hookworms feed on blood in your intestines. An untreated, severe infection results in blood loss. Blood loss can lead to anemia and protein deficiency.
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