Tapeworm segment (Proglottid)

Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum or Taenia spp.

Order & Family: Order: Cyclophyllidea, Family: Dipylidiidae or Taeniidae

Size: 3 to 12 mm in length (roughly the size of a rice grain or cucumber seed)

Internal parasites inhabiting the intestines of vertebrates; segments are shed in feces and found on fur or bedding.

Absorbs pre-digested nutrients directly from the host's intestinal tract.

Segments are motile when fresh and contain eggs; they eventually dry out, resembling sesame seeds or small yellow grains.

Risk of malnutrition or digestive issues in pets and humans; indicates a parasitic infection requiring medical or veterinary treatment.

Identified on: 1/15/2026