Fasciola

/ˈfæʃioʊlə/ noun

Definition

A genus of parasitic flatworms (flukes) that infect the liver of mammals, particularly livestock and humans.

Etymology

From Latin fasciola (small band or ribbon), from fascis (bundle). The worm was named for its band-like shape when viewed under early microscopes.

Kelly Says

Fasciola hepatica (sheep liver fluke) was one of the first parasites clearly connected to disease, making it historically crucial—studying it helped prove that invisible creatures could cause real illness, revolutionizing medicine.

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