The eggs develop into larvae within the mite until the mite is ingested by a grazing horse, allowing the larvae to be released into intestine. The larvae complete their life cycle by attaching to the lining of the intestines where they develop into adult tapeworms capable of releasing eggs.
How long is the life cycle of a tapeworm?
Adult tapeworms can live for up to 30 years in a host. Intestinal tapeworm infections are usually mild, with only one or two adult tapeworms. But invasive larval infections can cause serious complications.
What are the stages in the life cycle of a tapeworm?
All cestodes cycle through 3 stages—eggs, larvae, and adults. Adults inhabit the intestines of definitive, or final, hosts, which are mammalian carnivores, including humans. Several of the adult tapeworms that infect humans are named after their main intermediate host (the fish, beef, and pork tapeworms).
How does the life cycle of the tapeworm work?
How does the life cycle of the tapeworm work? Most tapeworms require two hosts to complete their life cycle. A definitive host releases eggs along with fecal matter and the eggs are consumed by an intermediate host (usually a cow or pig). The eggs encyst in the muscle of the intermediate host.
How long do tapeworms live outside the body?
Tapeworms can live outside for months, waiting for a host to come along. You're most at risk if you work around livestock or travel to a country where hygiene is poor. You can also be infected if you eat or drink something that contains tapeworm eggs or larvae, like raw or undercooked beef or pork.
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