What larval stage is not a Fasciola?

Introduction

Fasciola is a type of flatworm that is commonly found in fresh water bodies and damp soil. It is known to cause Fascioliasis, an infection that affects the liver and bile ducts of humans and animals. In order to become an adult, this parasite goes through several larval stages. In this article, we will discuss which one of these stages is not a Fasciola.

The Different Stages of Fasciola

Fasciola has four different larval stages. The first stage is called the redia, which is a small larva with two suckers and hooks. The second stage is called the cercaria, which is a tadpole-like larva with a tail and four pairs of hooks. The third stage is called the metacercaria, which is a cyst-like larva with a thick outer shell. Finally, the fourth stage is called the adult, which is a mature flatworm with a head and two suckers.

Which Stage is Not a Fasciola?

Out of the four larval stages of Fasciola, the metacercaria is not a Fasciola. It is actually a cyst-like larva that is formed when the cercaria larva encysts itself in the host’s tissues. The metacercaria is not capable of further development and will remain in this cyst form until it is ingested by a suitable host.

Conclusion

Fasciola has four different larval stages. The redia, cercaria, and adult are all stages of Fasciola, but the metacercaria is not. The metacercaria is a cyst-like larva that is formed when the cercaria encysts itself in the host’s tissues. It is not capable of further development and will remain in this cyst form until it is ingested by a suitable host.