1. Write the classification of ascaris?
The classification of ascaris is defined as below:
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Nematoda
Class - Chromadorea
Order - Ascaridida
Family - Ascarididae
Genus - Ascaris
Species - lumbricoides.
2. Which is the main reservoir for ascaris?
This pathogen goes to a length of more than 30 cm in the small intestine of the human. Humans are the natural host for the ascaris and it is the reservoir of the infection for ascaris.
3. Write the habitat distribution of ascaris?
The A.lumbricoides species is seen to be present in man. The Ascaris suum species is found to be present in pigs. These two species show many morphological similarities but these two are different physiological strains of ascaris.. The infective egg of Ascaris suum will not develop in man and that of Ascaris lumbricoides will not develop in pig.
4. Which disease is caused by Ascaris?
The disease caused by Ascaris, a parasitic roundworm, is called ascariasis. It's a common parasitic infection of the small intestine.
5. How is Ascaris transmitted?
Transmission occurs when eggs are swallowed from soil contaminated with human faeces or consumed with produce contaminated with soil containing infective eggs.
6. What is Ascaris?
Ascaris is a genus of parasitic roundworms that infects the gastrointestinal tract of humans and other mammals. The most common species affecting humans is Ascaris lumbricoides, which causes ascariasis, one of the most widespread parasitic worm infections globally.
7. How do male and female Ascaris differ in size?
Female Ascaris worms are typically larger than males. Females can grow up to 20-35 cm in length, while males are usually shorter, reaching 15-30 cm. This size difference is an example of sexual dimorphism in parasites.
8. What are the main external features visible in an Ascaris diagram?
The main external features visible in an Ascaris diagram include the elongated, cylindrical body, a tapered head end with a mouth, and a slightly curved tail end. The body is usually a pale cream or pinkish color.
9. How can you distinguish between male and female Ascaris in a diagram?
Male and female Ascaris can be distinguished by their tail ends. Males have a curved or hooked tail, which aids in mating, while females have a straighter tail. Additionally, females are generally larger and may appear wider due to their reproductive organs.
10. What are spicules in male Ascaris, and what is their function?
Spicules are small, hardened structures found near the tail end of male Ascaris worms. They function to hold open the female's genital opening during mating and guide sperm into the female reproductive tract, ensuring successful fertilization.
11. What is the significance of the Ascaris life cycle in understanding its anatomy?
Understanding the Ascaris life cycle is crucial for interpreting its anatomy. For example, the robust cuticle and simple digestive system are adaptations for surviving in different host environments. Diagrams might show how certain anatomical features relate to different life cycle stages.
12. What adaptations do Ascaris eggs have for survival, and how are these represented in diagrams?
Ascaris eggs have a thick, resistant shell that allows them to survive in harsh environments outside the host. In diagrams, eggs are often shown with a distinctive oval shape and thick outer layer, sometimes with additional internal structures visible.
13. How do Ascaris worms maintain their position in the host's intestine?
Ascaris worms maintain their position in the host's intestine through constant muscular movements and by bracing against the intestinal walls. Their tapered ends and cylindrical shape also help. This isn't always clear in static diagrams but may be indicated by the worm's body shape and musculature.
14. What is the purpose of the Ascaris mouth, and how is it adapted for feeding?
The Ascaris mouth is adapted for ingesting partially digested food from the host's intestine. It has simple lips and lacks complex structures like teeth. In diagrams, it's typically shown as a small opening at the anterior end, sometimes with subtle lip-like structures.
15. What is the significance of the Ascaris body shape in relation to its parasitic lifestyle?
The long, cylindrical shape of Ascaris is well-suited for its parasitic lifestyle in the intestine. It allows for efficient movement through the gut and maximizes surface area for nutrient absorption. Diagrams typically emphasize this elongated, streamlined form.
16. How does the anatomy of Ascaris reflect its parasitic lifestyle?
The anatomy of Ascaris reflects its parasitic lifestyle in several ways: a simple digestive system for absorbing pre-digested nutrients, a tough cuticle for protection, and highly developed reproductive organs for producing large numbers of offspring. Diagrams often emphasize these adaptations.
17. How does the size of Ascaris compare to other common parasitic worms?
Ascaris is one of the largest intestinal nematodes, significantly larger than many other common parasitic worms like pinworms or hookworms. This size difference is often emphasized in comparative diagrams, highlighting the impressive scale of Ascaris infections.
18. What is the significance of the Ascaris cuticle in drug resistance?
The Ascaris cuticle acts as a barrier to many drugs, contributing to the worm's resistance to some treatments. This is an important consideration in parasite control. While not always explicitly shown in diagrams, the prominence of the cuticle often hints at this function.
19. What is the pseudocoelom in Ascaris, and why is it important?
The pseudocoelom is a body cavity in Ascaris that is not fully lined with mesoderm. It's important for nutrient distribution, waste removal, and maintaining body shape. In diagrams, it's often shown as the space between the body wall and internal organs.
20. What internal structures are typically highlighted in an Ascaris diagram?
Key internal structures often highlighted in Ascaris diagrams include the digestive system (esophagus, intestine), reproductive organs (testes in males, ovaries in females), and the excretory system. The cuticle, muscle layers, and nerve cord may also be shown.
21. Why do male Ascaris worms have a curved tail?
The curved tail in male Ascaris worms serves a reproductive function. It helps the male wrap around the female during mating, allowing for better positioning and more efficient sperm transfer. This adaptation increases the chances of successful fertilization.
22. How do Ascaris worms breathe, and how is this represented in diagrams?
Ascaris worms don't have a specialized respiratory system. They perform anaerobic respiration and absorb oxygen through their cuticle. This is why diagrams typically don't show distinct respiratory organs, but may highlight the importance of the cuticle in gas exchange.
23. How does the nervous system of Ascaris differ from that of more complex animals?
Ascaris has a simpler nervous system compared to more complex animals. It consists of a nerve ring around the pharynx and longitudinal nerve cords. This system lacks a true brain but allows for basic sensory and motor functions. Diagrams often show the nerve ring and main nerve cord.
24. What is the excretory system of Ascaris, and how is it represented in diagrams?
The excretory system of Ascaris consists of two lateral excretory canals that run the length of the body and join at the excretory pore near the head. This system helps regulate osmotic balance and remove waste. In diagrams, it's often shown as two thin lines running parallel to the intestine.
25. How do Ascaris worms move, and what structures are involved?
Ascaris worms move through undulating body movements. This is achieved by contracting and relaxing longitudinal muscles along their body wall. In diagrams, these muscles are often shown as a layer beneath the cuticle, sometimes with indications of their orientation.
26. How does the digestive system of Ascaris differ from that of its host?
Ascaris has a simpler digestive system compared to its mammalian host. It lacks specialized organs like a stomach or liver, instead having a straight tube-like intestine. This adaptation allows for efficient nutrient absorption in the parasitic lifestyle. Diagrams often highlight this simplicity.
27. What is the function of the Ascaris esophagus, and how is it specialized?
The Ascaris esophagus connects the pharynx to the intestine and helps in food transport. It's specialized with muscles that can pump food along its length. In diagrams, it's often shown as a narrow tube leading from the pharynx to the wider intestine.
28. What is the function of the Ascaris intestine, and how is it adapted for nutrient absorption?
The Ascaris intestine is responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption. It's adapted with a large surface area and specialized cells for efficient nutrient uptake from the host's partially digested food. In diagrams, it's often shown as the longest internal structure, running most of the body length.
29. How do the sensory structures of Ascaris compare to those of free-living worms?
Ascaris has simpler sensory structures compared to free-living worms, reflecting its parasitic lifestyle. It has basic chemical and tactile receptors but lacks complex eyes or antennae. Diagrams might show small sensory papillae around the mouth or nerve endings in the cuticle.
30. How does the circulatory system of Ascaris differ from that of vertebrates?
Ascaris lacks a true circulatory system with blood vessels. Instead, it relies on the movement of fluid in its pseudocoelom for nutrient distribution and waste removal. This is why diagrams of Ascaris don't show distinct blood vessels or a heart.
31. What is the function of the lateral lines in Ascaris, and how are they shown in diagrams?
Lateral lines in Ascaris are longitudinal thickenings of the hypodermis that run along the sides of the body. They contain the excretory canals and serve as attachment points for muscles. In diagrams, they're often shown as distinct lines running the length of the worm on either side.
32. How does the muscular system of Ascaris differ from that of segmented worms?
Unlike segmented worms, Ascaris has longitudinal muscles but lacks circular muscles. This arrangement allows for the characteristic whip-like movement. In diagrams, the muscle layer is often shown as a continuous band beneath the cuticle, without segmentation.
33. How do the internal organs of Ascaris maintain their position within the body?
The internal organs of Ascaris are suspended in the fluid-filled pseudocoelom, which helps maintain their position. Additionally, the high internal pressure of the pseudocoelom provides structural support. Diagrams often show the organs floating in this cavity.
34. How does the digestive enzyme production in Ascaris differ from that in mammals?
Ascaris produces fewer types of digestive enzymes compared to mammals, as it relies largely on the host's digested food. Its digestive system is adapted for absorption rather than complex digestion. This simplicity is often reflected in the straightforward structure of the intestine in diagrams.
35. What is the role of the Ascaris nervous system in coordinating movement?
The Ascaris nervous system, though simple, coordinates the worm's movement through signals sent along the nerve cords to the muscles. This results in the characteristic undulating motion. Diagrams might show the main nerve cord running along the length of the body.
36. How does the osmoregulatory function of Ascaris relate to its anatomical structures?
Osmoregulation in Ascaris is primarily carried out by the excretory system, which helps maintain the worm's internal fluid balance. This function is closely tied to the excretory canals and pore shown in many diagrams, emphasizing their importance beyond waste removal.
37. What is the purpose of the Ascaris anus, and how does it differ from the anus in vertebrates?
The Ascaris anus, located at the posterior end, expels waste from the intestine. Unlike in vertebrates, it's a simple opening without complex muscular control. In diagrams, it's typically shown as a small aperture at the tail end of the intestine.
38. How does the structure of the Ascaris ovary contribute to its high egg production?
The Ascaris ovary is long and coiled, providing a large surface area for egg production. This structure allows for the continuous development of eggs at different stages. Diagrams often emphasize the extensive nature of the female reproductive system to illustrate this high productivity.
39. How does the lack of a respiratory system in Ascaris affect its overall anatomy?
The absence of a respiratory system in Ascaris means that other structures, particularly the cuticle and digestive system, must compensate for gas exchange and energy production. This is reflected in diagrams by the prominence of these structures and the lack of any lung-like organs.
40. How does the structure of the Ascaris pharynx contribute to its feeding mechanism?
The Ascaris pharynx is muscular and acts as a pump, creating suction to draw in food particles. Its structure allows for efficient food intake in the liquid environment of the host's intestine. Diagrams often show the pharynx as a slightly bulbous structure behind the mouth.
41. What is the function of the Ascaris hypodermis, and how does it relate to the cuticle?
42. How does the reproductive system differ between male and female Ascaris?
Male Ascaris have a single testis that produces sperm, while females have two long, coiled ovaries that produce eggs. Females also have a larger, more complex reproductive system to accommodate egg production and storage, including uteri and a vagina.
43. What is the function of the Ascaris cuticle, and how is it represented in diagrams?
The cuticle is the tough outer layer of the Ascaris body. It provides protection, maintains body shape, and aids in movement. In diagrams, it's typically represented as the outermost layer of the worm's cross-section, often shown as a thick line or band.
44. What is the alimentary canal in Ascaris, and how is it structured?
The alimentary canal in Ascaris is a simple, tube-like structure running the length of the worm. It consists of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, intestine, and anus. In diagrams, it's usually represented as a long tube extending from the head to the tail.
45. How do female Ascaris produce and store eggs?
Female Ascaris produce eggs in their ovaries. The eggs then pass through the oviducts and uteri, where they are fertilized and develop a protective shell. The eggs are stored in the uteri until they are released. Diagrams often show the ovaries as long, coiled structures and the uteri as wider tubes.
46. What is the function of the Ascaris pharynx, and how is it adapted for its role?
The pharynx in Ascaris is a muscular pumping organ that helps in ingesting food. It's adapted with strong muscles to create suction and move food into the intestine. In diagrams, it's often shown as a slightly enlarged section just behind the mouth.
47. How do male and female Ascaris differ in their reproductive output?
Female Ascaris can produce an enormous number of eggs, up to 200,000 per day, while males continuously produce sperm. This difference reflects their reproductive strategies and is often illustrated in diagrams by the larger size and complexity of female reproductive organs.
48. What is the purpose of the alae in Ascaris, and where are they located?
Alae are wing-like projections along the sides of some nematodes, including Ascaris. They aid in movement and provide structural support. In Ascaris diagrams, alae may be shown as slight ridges or projections along the lateral sides of the body, though they're not always prominent.
49. What is the purpose of the Ascaris body wall, and how is it structured?
The Ascaris body wall provides structural support, protection, and enables movement. It consists of the cuticle, hypodermis, and longitudinal muscles. In diagrams, these layers are often shown in cross-section, with the cuticle as the outermost layer.
50. What is the function of the seminal vesicle in male Ascaris, and where is it located?
The seminal vesicle in male Ascaris stores sperm before ejaculation. It's located near the posterior end of the worm, connected to the testis. In diagrams of male Ascaris, it's often shown as an enlarged structure near the curved tail.
51. How does the reproductive capacity of Ascaris compare to that of its host?
Ascaris has a much higher reproductive capacity than its mammalian host, with females capable of producing hundreds of thousands of eggs daily. This is often illustrated in diagrams by the large proportion of the female's body occupied by reproductive organs.
52. What is the function of the vas deferens in male Ascaris, and where is it located?
The vas deferens in male Ascaris transports sperm from the testis to the seminal vesicle. It's located in the posterior part of the body, connecting the testis to the seminal vesicle. In diagrams, it's often shown as a tube leading from the testis towards the tail end.
53. What is the purpose of the uterine bells in female Ascaris, and how are they represented in diagrams?
Uterine bells in female Ascaris are funnel-shaped structures that guide eggs from the oviducts into the uteri. They play a crucial role in egg transport and fertilization. In diagrams, they're often shown as widened, funnel-like areas where the oviducts meet the uteri.
54. How does the structure of the Ascaris testis reflect its continuous sperm production?
The Ascaris testis is a long, tubular structure that allows for continuous sperm production along its length. Different stages of sperm development occur in different regions of the testis. Diagrams typically show the testis as an elongated structure in the male's body.
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