Heterakid

/ˈhɛtərəkɪd/ noun

Definition

Any parasitic roundworm or nematode of the genus Heterakis, which commonly infects poultry and other birds.

Etymology

From Heterakis (the genus name, from Greek hetero- 'different' + akis 'point,' referring to unequal structures) + -id (suffix forming names of organisms). This is a modern scientific coinage from the genus name.

Kelly Says

Heterakids are notorious in poultry farming—they don't just eat intestinal tissue, they also transmit blackhead disease in turkeys, making them responsible for billions in agricultural losses annually, which is why modern farming uses strict parasite control protocols.

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