Amphistome

/ˌæmfɪˈstoʊm/ noun

Definition

A parasitic flatworm belonging to the family Amphistomatidae, characterized by suckers at both the anterior and posterior ends.

Etymology

From amphi- (both) + -stome (mouth/opening). A variant spelling of amphistoma used interchangeably in parasitological taxonomy.

Kelly Says

These creatures represent a completely different evolutionary strategy than tapeworms—they're more like tiny vacuum cleaners with attachment points on both ends, allowing them to navigate through their hosts' bodies with remarkable mobility.

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