Trematoda
*General Characteristics:
-Many are parasitic of vertebrates and others are parasitic to both vertebrates and invertebrates.
-Their intermediate host is usually a snail.
-They feed on host cells and cell fragments.
-Their intermediate host is usually a snail.
-They feed on host cells and cell fragments.
*Tegument
-is a layer that includes microvilli to exchange nutrients and the glycocalyx that aids in the transport of nutrients, waste, and gases across the body wall.
-the glycocalyx (layer of proteins and carbohydrates) also protects the fluke against enzymes and protect it's immune system.
-cytoplasmic bridges are slender cell process that connect the cytoplasmic bodies with the outer zone of the tegument.
-the glycocalyx (layer of proteins and carbohydrates) also protects the fluke against enzymes and protect it's immune system.
-cytoplasmic bridges are slender cell process that connect the cytoplasmic bodies with the outer zone of the tegument.