tapeworm: Reproduction

Reproduction

Each proglottid contains a complete set of male and female reproductive organs that produce the sex cells. Fertilization is internal; in most species cross fertilization between two adjacent worms is necessary, but in a few species self-fertilization may occur between two proglottids of the same worm, or within the same proglottid. In some species the fertilized eggs are shed continuously and leave the host's body in the feces; in others the fertilized eggs are stored until the proglottid is filled with them and the entire proglottid is then shed. The eggs develop into embryos with a hard outer shell; these do not hatch until they are eaten by a suitable intermediate host.

Sections in this article:

Introduction
Classification
Consequences of Infestation
Humans as Tapeworm Hosts
Reproduction
Anatomy and Function

See more Encyclopedia articles on: Pathology